At the recent Miller Research Potato Pest Management Meeting, new information was presented for battling the persistent pests and diseases plaguing potato crops. This annual event, hosted by Miller Research, featured four key presentations that each brought forward new ideas and solutions critically needed by the agricultural community.

The first presentation, titled Bacterial Bad Guys, led by Dr. Jeff Miller, focused on the growing concerns around bacterial diseases in potatoes, such as blackleg and soft rot. He provided a summary of field research aimed at evaluating foliar pesticide applications for reducing aerial stem rot in the field and bacterial soft rot in storage.

Research done with Drs. Nora Olsen and Mike Thornton at the University of Idaho evaluated the risk of soft rot development at different locations in fresh pack potato sheds. Once potatoes are washed, the risk of soft rot development increases exponentially.

In the second session, Fighting Foliar Foes with Fungicides, agronomist Trent Taysom presented recent successes in the development and application of fungicides to combat foliar diseases such as early blight and white mold. His presentation covered the efficacy of new fungicidal compounds and the importance of application timing and techniques to maximize crop protection.

Taysom stressed the significance of resistance management, advocating for a balanced approach that includes crop rotation and alternative fungicides. Its not just about killing the pathogen; its about sustaining our crop production without compromising future yields through resistance buildup, he explained.

Name that Disease! presented by pathologist Dr. Jeff Miller introduced an innovative, interactive approach to educating farmers and agronomists on identifying potato diseases more effectively. Using a quiz format, Dr. Miller engaged the audience with real-life scenarios to diagnose various potato diseases, emphasizing the importance of accurate identification in effective disease management.

The presentation was particularly well-received, with attendees appreciating the hands-on learning experience.

The final presentation, Can I Chemigate? by chemical engineer Trent Taysom tackled the topic of chemigation the practice of applying pesticides and other chemicals through irrigation systems. Taysom outlined the benefits and potential risks associated with this method, as well as best practices for implementation.

Highlighting recent technological advancements, Taysom discussed how precision application can reduce environmental impact and improve efficacy. Chemigation can be done effectively, reducing the cost of fungicide application and providing similar efficacy to aerial or ground application, he summarized.

The 2024 Miller Research Potato Pest Management Meeting not only highlighted the persistent challenges facing potato cultivation but also showcased a vibrant array of solutions and innovations. As the industry continues to face pressures from pests and diseases, the insights from this meeting underscore the importance of continued research and collaboration in overcoming these hurdles.

This event promises to have a lasting impact on how growers and agronomists approach pest and disease management, driving forward the potato industrys sustainability and productivity goals.

Source: Dr. Jeff Miller. Online news story here Contact: Please get in touch with Jeff Miller at jeff@millerresearch.com Cover image: Credit Dr. Jeff Miller, Miller Research

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Cutting-edge strategies in potato pest and disease defense: Insights from the 2024 Miller Research Potato Pest ... - Potato News Today

UPDATE The day after this article was published, Ocean Club at Halii Kai was issued a green pass placard and allowed to reopen, following an inspection from the health department.

(BIVN) The Ocean Club at Halii Kai in the Waikoloa resort area has been shut down due to an active rodent infestation, contaminated food products and unsanitary conditions within the facility, state health officials say.

On April 19th, the Hawaii Department of Health Food Safety Branch issued a red Closed placard to the Ocean Club, closing down the establishment located at 69-1029 Nawahine Place in Waikoloa. The DOH says the Ocean Club at Halii Kai is operated by Castle Resorts & Hotels Inc.

A public complaint made on April 18 prompted the state health inspection. The DOH says the following was noted:

A follow-up inspection is scheduled for Tuesday, April 23, to re-assess the establishments progress. The following corrective actions were required:

From the Hawaii DOH:

The Department of Health Food Safety Branch protects and promotes the health of Hawaii residents and visitors through education of food industry workers and regulation of food establishments statewide. The branch conducts routine health inspections of food establishments where food products are prepared, manufactured, distributed, or sold.

The branch also investigates sources of food-borne illnesses and potential adulteration. It is also responsible for mitigating the effects of these incidents to prevent any future occurrences. The Department of Healths food safety specialists strive to work with business owners, food service workers, and the food industry to ensure safe food preparation practices and sanitary conditions.

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Health Department Closes Waikoloa Club Due To Rodent Infestation - Big Island Video News

It's that time of year when area residents should make a call to Con's Weed Control Service, Sidney, in order to guarantee having a top-notch lawn.

Con Donvan, owner, has run the business since 1990. He said his crews cover about a 70-mile radius including all of Richland County, some of McKenzie County and the eastern side of Roosevelt County.

It's a family business with Con's wife, Lynn, and their grown children Michael, Matthew and Kerri all playing roles in the company's success. Valuable employees include John Reynolds, Kylee Lambert, Jerry Wznick, Bill Nankivel and Ben Wenzel.

"We need two or three more seasonal helpers," Con said.

The company's lawn service includes fertilization and weed control with each spray application. Timely applications are available to keep your lawn thick, green and healthy.

The business is licensed in ornamental and turf, special utility, right of way, school integrated pest management and structural pest control.

Donvan noted that core aeration has many benefits including reducing soil compaction, improving fertilizer and water uptake, enhancing seeding results, reducing water runoff and standing water, improving air exchange between soil and atmosphere and encouraging stronger turf grass root development.

He said that germination blankets for new lawns are the less expensive alternative to sod. The blankets increase seed germination, increase rate of growth by keeping seedlings moist, reduce run off and work great on hilly terrain.

Tree care provided by Con's includes tree and shrub sprayings, disease control, tree and shrub fertilization, tree consultation and deep root treatment.

To arrange an appointment or for more information, call 406-488-7422.

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Con's Weed Control Provides Quality Services In Area - The Roundup

Local Pest Control Company empowers Communities with Knowledge and Solutions to Stay Safe This Summer.

OREM, Utah, March 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Greenix Pest Control, a leader in eco-friendly pest management solutions, is proud to announce its partnership with LymeDisease.org for Lyme Disease Awareness Month this May. In a concerted effort to fight against Lyme disease, Greenix has committed to donating a portion of its profits to support the vital work of LymeDisease.org in educating communities and supporting individuals affected by this tick-borne illness.

Lyme Disease is considered the most common vector-borne disease in the U.S., with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recording that approximately 476,000 Americans are diagnosed and treated for Lyme Disease each year.

"We are proud to stand alongside the LymeDisease.org, in their mission to educate communities and support individuals affected by Lyme disease. By dedicating a portion of our profits to this cause, we hope to contribute to increased awareness, prevention, and ultimately, finding a cure for Lyme disease." (Bob Nilsen, CEO of Greenix.)

Greenix Pest Control is committed to making an impact by stopping the spread of Lyme Disease in the communities they service. Throughout the month of May, Greenix will donate a portion of proceeds from any new Tick, Flea and Mosquito account sold. The company encourages everyone to be proactive in tick-proofing their homes, surroundings and communities. Proceeds donated in May will support the efforts of LymeDisease.org in helping those affected by Lyme disease.

About Greenix Pest Control: Greenix is a leading provider of sustainable pest services, offering innovative solutions to keep homes and businesses pest-free. Their highest commitments are to their community, offering quality products and services that put safety first. Thanks to their dedication to educating and protecting their communities, Greenix continues to be a leader in the industry.

For more information about Greenix and its commitment to Lyme Disease Awareness, please visit https://www.greenixpc.com. Greenix Contact Info: [844-233-7378]

SOURCE Greenix Pest Control

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Greenix Steps Up in the Fight Against Lyme Disease This Awareness Month - PR Newswire

A mother has said her son has been having nightmares after huge rats were found in the family's housing association home.

Jane, not her real name, said she found six dead rats in kitchen cupboards after moving to the house in Little Hulton, Salford in May 2023.

She said she hears rats " swarming around at night" and they "sound like a pack of dogs".

Housing association firm, ForHousing, said it was "very sorry".

The council's pest control team has been contacted to arrange an urgent visit, it added.

Jane said: "My little boy is screaming in the middle of the night, they are that loud and he's having nightmares about the rats."

She said she could smell the rats as soon as she walked into the house last year, adding: "Rats in the roof have eaten all the loft insulation."

She said a council worker said it was "one of the worst cases of rat infestation he'd ever seen".

A job sheet completed by the infestation control officer said: "Pest control [is] required to clear rats from [the] loft which are weeing everywhere and causing stains on the ceiling, which is making it look like a leak."

But Jane said the housing officer told her it was something she would have to deal with herself, including disposing of the dead rats.

In desperation, she wrote to Chief Executive of ForHousing, Mike Parkin, who replied: "I have asked once again for one of our senior managers to get a grip of this and ensure we take action.

"I have asked for updates during the day. I understand we have let you down and having suffered a rat infestation when I was younger and in rented accommodation, I can truly understand how distressing this is."

Jane told the Local Democracy Reporting Service she had asked for the family to be moved but in the meantime her children were being forced to stay with relatives as they "cannot live in this house".

Nigel Sedman, executive director of homes at ForHousing said: "I am very sorry for the issues Jane has been experiencing with pests at her home.

Story continues

"We care deeply about the health and safety of our tenants and want Jane and her family to feel safe and happy with their home."

He said he recently spoke to Jane and has contacted Salford City Council's pest control team on her behalf to arrange an urgent visit.

He added that he had arranged for a surveyor to assess potential access routes in her back garden.

"We are investing more resources into this issue and working with our local authority partners on this and are arranging regular pest control visits to take action in newly emerging problem areas."

Last autumn, the Housing Ombudsman Service said reports of serious failures or delays by social housing landlords had more than quadrupled in the previous year.

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Mum's despair over rats in Salford housing association home - Yahoo News Canada

A strange mark which emerged on a homeowner's glass door has left Aussies stumped but a pest expert has revealed what has most likely caused it to appear.

Posting on Reddit, the Sydney resident said the zig-zag build-up which at first glance appears to be on his living room ceiling, but was actually attached to a glass door leading to an outdoor area turned to dust when wiped off.

What is this? the Sydneysider wrote next to a photo of the strange black trail.

Pest controller Christopher Moschella told Yahoo News Australia that while it was very hard to determine what the markings were for sure, he believed it was left by a swarm of gnats resulting from recent heavy moisture in the garden.

He said the alfresco area could be home to a lot of plants or exposed soil which attracted the insects.

Gnats fly around like that and flying ants do swarm up like that as well, Moschella told Yahoo. I dont think its ants though. Ant colonies can be found in down lights and roofs.

Fixing the problem could be as simple as spraying plants with pesticides and replacing soil in any indoor plant pots. Moschella said moisture from a garden could also be a contributing factor.

It always comes down to keeping up with general pest control, Moschella said. Plants outside and indoor plants should be sprayed as well.

He said insect swarms could develop along window sills where moisture accumulated but added, formations like this, you dont see that often.

The Redditor also shared a second photo in the comments of his original post which showed a brown cocoon-like growth on a heat strip.

Moschella said this photo was clearly of a mud wasp nest.

Mud wasps, also known as dirt dauber, are from either the family Sphecidae or Crabronidae and as the name suggests build their nests from mud.

Story continues

Moschella said they were not harmful and did a lot of work in pest control, preying on insects and spiders which they fed to their lavae, and like other wasp species, return to the same spot to build their nests.

Just spray them off with a bug spray such as Mortene and get a general pest control yearly or every six months, he told Yahoo.

Moschella, who shares TikToks of his more unusual pest finds under the handle RoachSniper, said nests looked like cocoons, while others were oval-shaped and he had seen one that was a wormy shape.

They get creative and sometimes get a bit funny, he added. I saw one shaped like a spider they built a mud nest over the top of a spider. It was crazy.

Some people in the comments of the Reddit post debated whether the marks were caused by mould or bugs, with most agreeing that they were somehow insect related.

Most commenters however, were stumped by the image and made jokes about a "parasite invasion" or said the grown was reminiscent of the creatures from the Upside Down in the popular Stranger Things series on Netflix.

Others helpfully suggested "burning the place to the ground" and said that because the growth had appeared in Australia it would "most likely kill you". Another had the simple advice: "Get out", while someone else said: "It's going to be a no from me".

Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories.

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Strange zig-zag marking on glass puzzles Aussies: 'What is this?' - Yahoo News Australia

When New Yorkers concern themselves with rodents, they typically focus on how to kill them. But a new law proposed in Albany this month aims to protect them from a long-used extermination method now increasingly seen as unduly cruel, even to a rat: trapping them with glue until they starve, die of dehydration or are dispatched by hand.

The bill would ban the sale and use of what are known as glue boards cheap, sticky traps that can be strewed around construction sites or tossed under kitchen cabinets and forgotten. If the legislation is successful, New York would join a growing list of places that passed bans recently, like Scotland and Ojai, a city in California with a population of about 7,500, which made glue traps illegal this month. In January, Representative Ted W. Lieu, a Democrat who represents Los Angeles, introduced the Glue Trap Prohibition Act in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Those pushing for the ban cite the traps gruesome method, the fact that other small animals like songbirds and kittens can become ensnared, and the risk of stuck rodents spreading disease.

If you want an animal dead, there are lots of ways to do it, and torturing an animal to death isnt the answer, said Assemblyman Harvey Epstein, a Democrat who represents Manhattans East Side and who sponsored the bill in the State Assembly. We dont need to lose our humanity just because we dont like having as many rodents in our midst as we currently do.

But the bills detractors, including those who work in the pest-control industry and New Yorkers who have had one too many of the creatures scuttle past their ankles, say its misguided sympathy. A glue-trap ban doesnt stop rats and mice from meeting other brutal ends from poison bait or spring-loaded snap traps.

A lot of people who dont actually have to face rats, mice, all these types of disgusting creatures, have a lot of opinions about them, said Sam Liebowitz, who works at National Pest and Exterminators Supplies, a Brooklyn-based company that sells a variety of rodent-control methods, including poisons that work by causing the animal to bleed to death internally. Glue boards arent fun, but there are so many things that are more cruel.

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New York Is Considering a Ban on Glue Traps to Catch Mice - The New York Times

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Prepare your yard for the warm season with Turf Gator - St. Louis Post-Dispatch

As the sun peeks over the horizon, casting its morning glow over fields of corn and soybean, a silent sentinel is already at work. This isnt your typical farmer; it doesnt wear boots, doesnt ride a tractor, and certainly doesnt break a sweat. Meet ChatGPT the AI-powered ally in the worlds ongoing battle against agricultural pests.

This digital dynamo is transforming the traditional approach to pest control, and it could be the key to unlocking the future of sustainable farming. With artificial intelligence at the helm, a revolution is underway in the fields and farms across the globe.

Gone are the days of blanket spraying and pesticide overuse, both notorious for wreaking havoc on ecosystems. ChatGPT tailors its recommendations with surgical precision, predicting the pests next move, and equipping farmers with the right counter-strategy. Its as if farmers have gained the ability to see the invisible, turning the tide in this age-old war of human versus nature.

But how exactly is ChatGPT reshaping the landscape? It starts with a complex blend of machine learning, computer vision, and natural language processing all acting together like a high-tech pest swat team. When a potential threat is identified, farmers receive a real-time notification and customized advice on intervention strategies (source: openai.com).

Whats game-changing is ChatGPTs ability to minimize the intervention needed, pinpointing the exact type and quantity of pesticides required. This doesnt just cut costs; it acts as a guardian of the land, preserving beneficial insects and soil health, which are integral to any farms ecosystem.

The environmental impacts cant be overstated. Reduction in pesticide use means fewer chemicals leaching into rivers and streams, sparing aquatic life from harmful toxins that could ripple up the food chain (source: environmental protection agency).

However, ChatGPT goes beyond just the spritz of chemicals. It encompasses a holistic vision of pest management, suggesting crop rotations, planting companion species, or even deploying beneficial insects as biological control agents. This isnt just pest control; its an intelligent design for sustainable agriculture (source: usda.gov).

Yet, for all its prowess, ChatGPTs reach has limits. It requires robust infrastructure and technological literacy, barriers that may stand tall for farmers in developing regions. Furthermore, the collection and processing of quality data are paramount for ChatGPTs algorithms to deliver accurate insights, presenting a persistent challenge for continuous adaptation and learning.

Nonetheless, the wheels of progress are in motion. As more data gets funneled through ChatGPTs neural networks, the system becomes increasingly adept at predicting and preventing pest outbreaks. Its a technological symbiosis where each harvest season hones the machines instinct further.

So whats next on the horizon for ChatGPT and its pest-fighting crusade? A closer integration with other technologies, like drones and sensors, could enhance real-time monitoring, creating a grid of vigilance over vast agricultural landscapes (source: fao.org).

Altogether, ChatGPT marks a new epoch in the annals of agriculture. By harnessing the power of AI, were not just inching towards eco-friendlier farming practices; were leaping into a future where efficiency intersects with environmental stewardship. The fields are whispering of a change, and ChatGPT is leading the charge, one pest at a time.

Marcin Frckiewicz is a renowned author and blogger, specializing in satellite communication and artificial intelligence. His insightful articles delve into the intricacies of these fields, offering readers a deep understanding of complex technological concepts. His work is known for its clarity and thoroughness.

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Revolutionizing the Green Battlefield: AI Takes on Agricultural Pests - yTech

Consider the following factors when deciding between pest control companies.

Perhaps the most important factor is which pests you want protection from. Are you looking for a package that covers a variety of common household pests, or a targeted plan that only tackles mosquito control? Some providers offer a broad range of plans, while others offer specialized treatments.

Your budget is key, and its always a good idea to shop around for several quotes. Pest control companies might give you a general estimate over the phone, but theyll need to do an in-home inspection to give you the most accurate quote. Its also important to research the billing process. Some providers offer one-time payments, while others follow a standardized billing cycle.

Each pest control companys plans are unique, so costs will vary among providers.The following factors determine what youll pay:

Not all providers offer visits in monthly, bi-monthly, and quarterly intervals. Make sure you choose a plan that has visits as frequently as you want them.

Most pest control companies offer a service guarantee, but the terms vary. Some companies offer free reservice if pests return, while others include a full refund for the unsuccessful treatment if you remain a customer.

Orkin offers a 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee that ensures free reservice if pests return between scheduled visits. If the pest issue cant be resolved, Orkin will refund your most recent service payment as long as you remain a customer.

Terminix provides different guarantees, depending on the service. It offers a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for its general pest control plan that states a Terminix technician will re-treat pests for free if they return. The company will also refund your latest payment if you arent 100% satisfied with your service.

Terminix offers an Ultimate Protection Guarantee for termites. Qualifying homeowners will never have to pay for treatment or repairs from termite damage as long as they maintain their plan.

Finally, Terminix offers a comprehensive Bed Bug Guarantee. The company will provide free reservice if you find bed bugs in a treated area within 30 days. The guarantee increases to 90 days if you buy a mattress encasement for every mattress and box spring in your house.

A companys reputation says a lot about its trustworthiness, competence, and reliability. Look at the providers history and customer reviews to find one with the best quality of service. A company with decades of experience and a proven track record may do a better job than a newcomer.

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The Best Pest Control Companies of March 2023 - This Old House