Integrated pest management (IPM) is commonly discussed and used by pest management professionals, but is not widely understood by the general public. This publication explains the fundamentals of IPM and why it is an important tool for professionals and homeowners.

This factsheet attempts to clarify some of the information surrounding organic and synthetic pesticides. Knowing their similarities and differences will prepare you to choose the best management solution for your pest problem.

Proper storage and disposal of pesticides is essential to protecting people, animals, and the environment. This publication gives a brief overview on how homeowners and members of the public can properly store pesticides, and dispose of pesticides and product containers.

The need for this publication was identified by a survey conducted by the Emerging Pest and Pesticide Management Program Team. The survey identified a handful of myths among EMGs about integrated pest management (IPM). This publication serves to debunk those myths, which is beneficial to EMGs and the general public in their overall understanding of IPM.

Anyone working with or near pesticides should recognize the signs and symptoms of pesticide exposure. It is also important to know the signs and symptoms of heat stress because it can closely resemble pesticide poisoning. This article discusses the similarities and differences between pesticide exposure and heat stress. It also outlines first aid measures and prevention strategies for each condition.

Uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) are increasingly used for a wide range of agricultural purposes, including pesticide application. This factsheet provides information for individuals seeking certification as a UAV pilot and/or aerial pesticide applicator. It reviews basic information on pesticide application with drones; outlines the federal, state, and local requirements to operate legally; and provides contact information and links. It also discusses the importance of staying up to date.

This guide provides key information for selecting trees suitable for silvopasture operations in the Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S. – states include Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. This guide includes species native to North America with an emphasis on those native to Mid-Atlantic states. Only woody plants over 25 feet tall at maturity that are primarily single stemmed were considered. Both deciduous and evergreens are included.

The Eastern Shore Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Virginia Tech organized the Mid-Atlantic Spray Drone workshop on July 23-24, 2024 in Painter, VA. The workshop highlighted benefits of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), also known as aerial drones, emphasizing their role in crop protection and comparing efficacy and economics with traditional spraying methods. Over the two-day workshop, federal regulators, university researchers, industry personnel, and custom pesticide applicators (Figure 1) examined the current status of the technology, and debated drift issues, and management strategies. The workshop was attended by participants from Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and New York.