Citizen scientists sought

Citizen scientists have made some of the most significant pest detections in recent decades, including the Asian longhorned beetle and other invasive species. In Alaska, the early detection and rapid response to invasive pest introductions is key to prevention. Citizen monitoring is how you can help.

Our goal is to assist individuals who enjoy observing the natural world and who want to learn about what they see. Indulge your curiosity. The more citizen scientists we have looking for insect, plant and disease organisms throughout our state, the better we can respond to issues that may impact our environment, natural resources and food supply.

Volunteer citizen scientists are encouraged to submit specimens or photos regarding insects, plants and diseases in their local area.

The information is sent to a statewide team that will promptly respond regarding the sample. Pertinent information can then be sent to you and possibly to local and state land resource managers regarding potential concerns.

Send specimens for identification to uaf.edu/ces/ipm/cmp.

What is IPM?

Integrated pest management is a common-sense approach to achieving long-term management of pest problems with minimal impact on human health, the environment and nontarget organisms. IPM focuses on understanding the biology of organisms and their relationship to the surrounding environment.

About IPM

The Alaska IPM provides free pest management education in Alaska. Offering nonbiased, research-based information, this resource is widely used by residents across the state. The program has provided services and outreach in Alaska since 1981. This unique program was originally designed to meet the public demand for IPM information. It continues to respond to citizen input and current pest trends in Alaska.

Services provided include identification of insect, plant and disease specimens, as well as recommendations on IPM control options to reduce pest problems and site visits to examine tree disorders and invasive plants in the field.

The statewide AKIPM program is a cooperative effort, combining the resources of the University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Service (CES) and the USDA Forest Service, State and Private Forestry-Forest Health Inspection Service and the state Division of Natural Resources. The IPM staff performs additional exotic pest monitoring each year.

For more information, contact pfcompton@alaska.edu or 746-3472, or stop by the Mat-Su/Copper River Cooperative Extension Service, 809 South Chugach, Suite 2, Palmer.

Pam Compton is an integrated pest management technician for the Mat-Su/Copper River Cooperative Extension Service.