Promoting IPM Strategies that Enhance Natural Enemies in Vegetable Gardens

Abstract

CCE educators and Master Gardener Volunteers expressed a need for enhanced literacy in insect identification and resources to aid understanding and promotion of biological control strategies. We have begun a statewide educational campaign around the theme “Beneficial Insects” that would address this need and IPM priorities including: developing innovative educational materials inclusive of multiple media and languages in collaboration with Cornell experts and students; regional train-the-trainer workshops for county-based educators and volunteers; and support for CCE county programs to raise public awareness about beneficial insects and adoption of IPM strategies that enhance natural enemies in vegetable gardens.