Grower Engagement
My goal is to create an extension program that engages with and supports Pennsylvania growers. I prioritize projects based on the needs of the industry. I design experiments with farm owners, managers, and workers to maximize the impact and adoption of newly developed Integrated Pest Management techniques. I communicate with growers at farm trainings and tours, and at industry meetings. Additionally, I operate the mushroom fly hotline, where growers can personally discuss their mushroom pest issues with me.
Farm Trainings and Tours
The success of my program is dependent upon fostering positive relationships with growers. Growers are the experts in the field, and I hope they can learn as much from me as I learn from them. I prioritize on-farm trainings and tours to understand farm architecture, growing protocols, and information gaps. Understanding these variables maximizes the impact my program can have. I typically spend 1 week per month working on farms with growers to facilitate two way information transfer. Interested in scheduling a farm training/tour?
Industry Meetings
In addition to farm trainings and tours and field experiments, I also organize and participate in industry meetings to further engage with stakeholders. These industry meetings include the annual Mushroom Short Course, biannual Pesticide Credit meetings, and biennial Industry Planning Meetings. I sit on several committees for the American Mushroom Institute including the PSU Advisory Committee, the Research Committee, and the IPM Committee.
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