For 2020 and newer grants, please go to https://grants.ipmcenters.org/
Home       Current RFAs       PD User Guide       Projects       Login

Funded Project

Funding Program: IPM Enhancement Grants

Project Title: Strengthening Extension Leadership and Stakeholder Training on the Megacopta cribraria Invasion Front

Project Directors (PDs): Xing Ping Hu [1] Stephen Enloe [2] Nancy Loewenstein [3] Timothy Reed [4]

Lead State: AL Lead Organization: Auburn University

Cooperating State(s): Alabama

Undesignated Funding: $30,000

Start Date: May-01-2013 End Date: Apr-30-2014

Pests Involved: Megacopta cribraria, (the kudzu bug)

Site/Commodity: Soybeans / Urban Sites

Area of Emphasis: kudzu bug IPM

Summary: The kudzu bug (Megacopta cribraria F.), an exotic insect recently discovered in Georgia, has become a serious pest threatening soybean, vegetable, and horticultural producers across much of the Southeast. The kudzu bug problem is also exacerbated by its abundance in kudzu-infested urban areas where it has become a nuisance of homes and buildings. This pest is also of national significance as international trade of certain US agricultural commodities with Central America may be at risk due to fears of accidental introductions in contaminated shipments there. Although initially detected in Georgia in October 2009, it has now spread to at least 392 counties across 8 Southern Region States. In Alabama, as the invasion front moves west across the state we are uniquely suited to educate Extension personnel and stakeholders in the infested zone, along the advancing front, and in uninfested areas as the bug is approaching. In previous research, we have found a positive correlation between kudzu bug occurrence and the presence of kudzu (Pueraria montana (Lour.) Merr.) patches in both agricultural and urban environments, have identified mechanisms of kudzu bug dispersal and susceptible points in the bugs life cycle for optimal control, and have elucidated a seasonal pattern of host and feeding plant selection. We have also conducted extensive research on kudzu control, which is a critical component of addressing the kudzu bug problem in an effective IPM manner. The western invasion front is currently within Alabama and it is critical to rapidly educate Extension personnel and the numerous stakeholders impacted by the kudzu bug as the invasion front continues to advance. Based on our previous research, we propose to develop a cohesive educational program to provide state and regional leadership with the following overall goals: 1) develop regional Extension training materials for integrated kudzu bug and kudzu biology, ecology and management specific to two major stakeholder group (Agronomy and Urban and Home Pests/Urban Forests); 2) provide information and technology to increase the ability of extension educators to serve a more diverse clientele regarding the kudzu bug problem (Train the Trainers); and 3) use the kudzu bug/kudzu plant invasive species complex as a platform to demonstrate effective integrated pest management through collaborative field workshops specific to each stakeholder group. This approach will greatly strengthen extension efforts regarding effective IPM methods for the kudzu bug/kudzu plant invasive species complex. Objectives: 1) Develop regional extension training materials for integrated kudzu bug and kudzu biology, ecology, and management specific to two major stakeholder groups (Agronomy and Urban and Home Pests/Urban forests). 2) Provide information and technology to increase the ability of Extension educators to serve a more diverse clientele regarding the kudzu bug problem (Train the Trainers); 3) Use the kudzu bug/kudzu plant invasive species complex as a platform to demonstrate effective integrated pest management through collaborative field workshops specific to each stakeholder group. Outputs for this project include newsletters (4), Timely information fact sheets (2), Extension Bulletins (2), Powerpoint presentations (2), and videos (1), Scopia and Webinar trainings for Extension Agents (5), demonstration plot field days (4).

Final Report:

Target audience The target audience consisted of Extension Educators (County Extension Agents, Regional Extension Agents and Specialists from Agronomy, Home and Grounds and Natural Resources, as well as farmers, soybean producers, fruit and vegetable growers, homeowners and the general public.

Activities / Events A total of 33 events were held in 21 counties across the state of Alabama, reaching over 1635 people. Workshops/In-Service Trainings Biology and Management of Kudzu Bug in Soybeans-2/26/13; DeKalb County Tips for Scouting Soybeans for Kudzu Bugs-6/11/13; Autauga County Tips for Scouting Soybeans for Kudzu Bugs-6/12/13; Henry County Tips for Scouting Soybeans for Kudzu Bugs- 6/18/13; Mobile County Status of Kudzu Bug Infestations in East Central Alabama Soybeans and Optimum Management Strategies-7/11/13; Macon County When Should I Spray My Soybeans for Kudzu Bugs-8/12/13; Blount County When Should I Spray My Soybeans for Kudzu Bugs-8/13/13; Limestone County When Should I Spray My Soybeans for Kudzu Bugs-8/14/13; Fayette County Kudzu Bug Workshop-8/20/14; Lee County Managing Kudzu Bugs Infesting Soybeans-9/3/13; Lee County Kudzu Bug Update -9/16/13; Lee County Status of the Kudzu Bug in Alabama-9/16/13; Franklin County Impacts of kudzu bug on agronomy and management-10/9/13; Lee County Update on fighting kudzu bugs-10/7/13-Chilton County Results of 2013 Research Projects to Ascertain an Economic Threshold for the Kudzu Bug in Soybeans and Assess the Effect of Planting date on Kudzu Bug Density in Soybeans-1/9/14; Montgomery County Results of 2013 Research Projects to Ascertain an Economic Threshold for the Kudzu Bug in Soybeans and Assess the Effect of Planting date on Kudzu Bug Density in Soybeans-1/27/14; Tuscaloosa County Biology and Management of Kudzu Bug in Soybeans-2/17/13; Mobile County Biology and Management of Kudzu Bug in Soybeans-2/17/14; Baldwin County Biology and Management of Kudzu Bug in Soybeans-2/18/14; Escambia County Biology and Management of Kudzu Bug in Soybeans-2/20/14; Lauderdale County Biology and Management of Kudzu Bug in Soybeans -2/20/14; Lawrence County Biology and Management of Kudzu Bug in Soybeans-2/21/14; Madison County Biology and Management of Kudzu Bug in Soybeans -2/25/14; Shelby County Impact of Kudzu Bugs On Soybeans In 2013 and Suggested Economic Treatment Thresholds-4/2/14; Mobile County Kudzu bug 101: The bug we love to hate-4/3/14; Mobile County Biology and Management: Kudzu bug control in residential areas-4/23/14; Lee County Field Days Determining Optimal Timing for Kudzu Bug Insecticide Applications to Soybeans to Prevent Yield Loss and to Maximize Soybean Profits  8/30/13; Autauga County Effect of Planting Date on Kudzu Bug Infestation Level and Economic Loss in Alabama Soybeans-8/30/14; Autauga County Ag Discovery Adventure: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly-9/28/13; Macon County Kudzu Bug Identification and Biology-2/7/14; Lee County Conferences Alabama Invasive Plant Council 11th Annual Conference - Kudzu bug biology and ecology (5/8/13) Webinars Discoveries on kudzu bug biology and nature enemies-7/12/13 Impacts of kudzu bugs on horticultural plants-7/23/13

Publications Fourteen Extension articles and/or Alabama IPM Communicator (newsletter) articles were produced. Extension Publications (4) Kudzu Bug Control in Soybeans  ANR-2176 http://www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/A/ANR-2176/ANR-2176.pdf Kudzu Control in Residential Areas-ANR-2168 http://www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/A/ANR-2168/ANR-2168.pdf Kudzu Control in Forests, Rights of Ways and Natural Areas (in preparation) Kudzu in Alabama-History and Use (in preperation) Timely Information Sheets (4) Kudzu bug control in soybeans: Frequently Asked Questions- 4/30/14 https://sites.aces.edu/group/timelyinfo/Documents/TI-6th-KudzuBugControl-Agriculture-20140427.pdf Kudzu bug control in residential areas: frequently asked questions and answers (FAQ)  4/17/14 https://sites.aces.edu/group/timelyinfo/Documents/TI-5th-KudzuBugControlForHomeowners-20140408.pdf Kudzu bugs are moving, with a little dent on population made by the chilly winter. 3/21/14 https://sites.aces.edu/group/timelyinfo/Documents/TI-4th-ColdImpact-20140319.pdf Record-breaking frigid temperatures dont necessarily mean fewer insects. 2/7/14 https://sites.aces.edu/group/timelyinfo/Documents/TimelyInfo2-ColdTs-Bugs-20140205.pdf Newletter - Alabama IPM Communicator (6) Alabama IPM Communicator. June 2013, Vol. 4 No. 7. North Alabama Cotton and Soybean Insect Update. http://www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/I/IPMNEWS-0061/IPMNEWS-0061.pdf Alabama IPM Communicator, July 2013 , Vol. 4 No. 9. Economic thresholds for kudzu bugs (pg 7) and Kudzu bugs in Alabama (pgs 5-6). http://www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/I/IPMNEWS-0063/IPMNEWS-0063.pdf Alabama IPM Communicator, March 2014, Vol. 5 No. 5. Kudzu bugs no match for winter (pg 4-5) and Kudzu bugs are on moving (pgs 9-10). http://www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/I/IPMNEWS-0076/IPMNEWS-0076.pdf Alabama IPM Communicator, April 2014, Vol 5. No.7. Kudzu bug control in residential areas http://www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/I/IPMNEWS-0078/IPMNEWS-0078.pdf

Other Products / Outputs Other products produced pertaining to kudzu bugs included 5 refereed journal articles, 11 conference presentations and posters, and 85 popular press articles including on-line, social media, TV, radio and newspaper venues. Refereed Journal articles (5) Golec, Julian, Tim Reed and Xing Ping Hu. 2014. Perspective on two recently discovered, locally existing natural enemies on controlling the invasive bean plataspid in agricultural and urban ecosystems. Alabama Academy of Science Journal. Submitted April 15. Gardner, A., Joni L. Blount, Julian R. Golec, Janelle R. Couret4, Walker A. Jones, Xing Ping Hu, Xiangli Dong, Elijah J. Talamas, Charles H. Ray, Jr., G. David Buntin, and Nicole M. Gerardo. 2013. Discovery of Paratelenomus saccharalis (Dodd) (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae), an egg parasitoid of the bean plataspid, Megacopta cribraria F. (Hemiptera: Plataspidae), in its expanded North American range. The Journal of Entomological Science 48(4): 355-359. Golec, J.R., Hu, X.P., Charles Ray, and Norman E. Woodley. 2013. Strongygaster triangulifera (Diptera: Tachinidae) as a parasitoid of adults of the invasive Megacopta cribraria (Heteroptera: Plataspidae) in Alabama. The Journal of Entomological Science 48(4): 352-354. Gardner, W.A., Peeler, H.B., LaForest, J., Roberts, P.M., Sparks, Jr. A.N., Greene, J.K., Reisig, D., Suiter, D.R., Bacheler, J.S., Kidd, K., Ray, C.H., Hu, X.P., Kemerait, R.C., Scocco, E.A., Eger, J.E., Ruberson, J.R., Sikora, E.J., Herber, Jr. D.A., Campana, C., Halbert, S., Stewart, S.S., Buntin, G.D., Toews, M.D., and Bargeron, C.T. 2013. Confirmed distribution and occurrence of Megacopta cribraria (F.) (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Plataspidae) in the Southeastern United States. J. Entomol. Sci. 48(2): 118-127. http://eorder.sheridan.com/3_0/display/index.php?flashprint=2649 Conference Presentations and Posters (11) Hu, X.P., Golec, Julian, and Dong, Xiangli. 2014. Biological dispersal strategies of the new invasive Megacopta cribraria at a regional level. International Conference on Urban pests, Zurich, Switzerland. July 20-23, 2014. Golec, J. and Hu, XP. 2014. Perspectives of the newly discovered locally existing natural enemies on controlling the invasive kudzu bug in ag- and urban ecosystems. 91st Annual meeting of Alabama Academy of Science, March 12-14, Auburn. Hu, X.P. 2014. Invasion strategies of the bean plataspid. Entomological Society of America-Southeastern Branch meeting. March 2-5. Greenville, SC. Julian Golec and Hu, X.P. 2013. Biological Observations of the Overwinter Adult Megacopta cribraria (Hemiptera: Plataspidae) in Spring. November 12-15, 2013 Annual Meeting of Entomological Society of America, Austin, TX. Hu, X.P. 2013. Over-wintering biology of invasive M. cribraria. Entomology Society of America Southeastern Branch Meeting. March 3-6. Baton Rouge, LA. Win the battle against the invasive Kudzu bug. Auburn Rotary Club Program. April 23, 2014. Xing Ping Hu and Julian Golec Kudzu bug biology, distribution and management. Alabama Fruit and Vegetable Conference. Opelika, Feb. 8. 2014. Xing Ping Hu, Tim Reed, Julian Golec Kudzu bug dispersal in AL. Alabama Pest Control Association Spring Meeting. February 6-8, 2013. Auburn, AL Xing Ping Hu Distribution of the kudzu bug and its potential predators in Alabama. Applied Research and Extension Education Poster. Alabama Association of County Agricultural Agents and Specialists Annual Meeting, April 2-4, 2014. 2nd Place for Applied Research Category. Delany, M., Sikora, E., Reed, T., Hu, XP, Ray, C. A. Population dynamics of kudzu bug Megacopta cribraria in soybean field. Poster #76841. November 12-15, 2013 Annual Meeting of Entomological Society of America, Austin, TX. Dong, Xiangli and Hu, X.P. Evaluation of insecticides effectiveness on kudzu bug Megacopta cribraria at various developing stages. (poster #76833. ). November 12-15, 2013 Annual Meeting of Entomological Society of America, Austin, TX. Hu, X.P. and Dong, XL. 2013. News Articles/Social Media/other news outlets (85) Insects wont be affected by cold snap. 2/5/14. http://www.aces.edu/agriculture/insects-diseases-weeds-pests/ Auburn Researcher Gaining New Insights into Behavior and Control of the Kudzu Bug. 7/7/13, https://sites.aces.edu/group/comm/newsline/Lists/Posts/Post.aspx?ID=660 Kudzu bug Q&A. Alabama Insect Blog -Blogger http://alabama-insects.blogspot.com/ 2013 Status of the distribution of kudzu bug in Alabama. http://alabama-insects.blogspot.com/ 2013 The kudzu bug: another exotic pest that will cause US problems ---Moulton Advertiser, 4/5/13 Kudzu bug: a threat to soybean production. Sourtheast Farm Press. 9/9/13 http://southeastfarmpress.com/soybeans Kudzu bug transforming insect control picture of soybeans, expert say. 7/2/13, ACES web pageNatural ResourcesInvasive Species news Kudzu bugs transforming insect control picture of soybeans, 7/2/13 Alabama Cooperative Extension System | Southeast Farm Press Kudzu bug informationgeneral information and stats. posted 7/3/13 at www.Alabama Crops.com Soybean insect outlook for 2014. --Southeast Farm Press, Sept. 2013 Kudzu bug has potential to change everything in soybean insect management. by Paul Hollis with info from Tim Reed. Southeast Farm Press, 1/8/14 AL.com. Spring weather attracts pests, experts advise on what to do. April 4. http://blog.al.com/spotnews/2014/04/spring_weather_attracts_pests.html 19 Action News. Insects wont be affected by cold temperature. Feb. 12, 2014 by Annie Hubbell. http://www.19actionnews.com/story/24698643/insects-wont-be ABC: Would the recent cold snaps kill pest bugs? Feb. 11th, 10:00 pm. By Annie Hubbell. ACES. Kudzu bugs no match for old man winters persistence. March11. https://sites.aces.edu/group/comm/newsline/Lists/Posts/Post.aspx?ID=758. AgFax.com. Alabama: kudzu bugs no match for old man winters persistence. March 14, 2014. http://agfax.com/tag/kudzu-bug/ AgFax.com: Alabama: insects wont be affected by cold snap. Feb. 10 2014. http://agfax.com/2014/02/10/alabama-insects-wont-affected-cold-snap/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=alabama-insects-wont-affected-cold-snap al.com: why recent cold weather wont curb Alabamas insect pest populations. By Evan Belanger @ ebelanger@al.com. Feb. 07, 2014 http://blog.al.com/wire/2014/02/why_recent_cold_weather_wont_c.html FarmAssist. Insects wont be affected by cold snap. http://www.farmassist.com/Alerts/AlertDetail.aspx?alertId=179706&AlertType=11&AlertTypeName=Pest%20Alert&type= Farmers and Consumers Bulletin- Insects wont be affected by cold snap., March issue Fox 54 (WXTX): what we will expect of the pest situation in coming spring? Feb. 11th, 9:00 pm, by Annie Hubbell. Growing Alabama. Research shows bitter cold killed off many kudzu bugs. March 17, 2014. http://growingalabama.com/features/2014/03/research-shows-bitter-cold-killed-many-kudzu-bugs/ Growing Florid. Frigid weather may knock back pests on the farm. March 4, 2014. http://growingfl.com/features/2014/03/frigid-weather-may-knock-back-pests-farm/ Growing Georgia. Frigid weather may knock back pests on the farm. http://growinggeorgia.com/features/2014/03/frigid-weather-may-knock-back-pests-farm/?utm_source=Growing+Georgia&utm_campaign=fee181aa28-growinggeorgia-daily_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_4643f190f7-fee181aa28-287992921 IPM in the South. Auburn research finds kudzu bugs affected by persistent cold. March 21. http://ipmsouth.com/2014/03/21/auburn-research-finds-kudzu-bugs-affected-by-persistent-cold/ Radio 106.5 FM in Mobile. Referred to ACES reports by Dr. Hu. Southeast Farm Press. Expert: kudzu bugs succumb to Alabamas odd, bitter winter. March 20, 2014. http://southeastfarmpress.com/soybeans/expert-kudzu-bugs-succumb-alabama-s-odd-bitter-winter The Anniston Star. On gardening: even cold of winter wont kill persistent pests. By Shane Harris of ACES. Feb. 15, 2014. http://annistonstar.com/view/full_story/24587783/article-On-Gardening--Even-cold-of-winter-won-t-kill-persistent-pests?instance=top_center_featured The Birmingham News: Unphased: why recent cold weather wont curb Alabamas insect populations. Feb. 9th 11A. The Gadsden Times. Extension corner: expert: insects wont be affected by cold snap. February 26, 2014. http://www.gadsdentimes.com/article/20140226/NEWS/140229865 2013: 12 WSFA.com. AU receives grants to fight kudzu bugs. March 20, 2014. http://www.wsfa.com/story/23052318/au-receives-grants-to-fight-kudzu-bugs Abc News4. Parasite could help control damaging kudzu bugs. http://www.abcnews4.com/story/23095554/parasite-could-help-control-damaging-kudzu-bugs Abc13, WSET-TV. Parasite could help control damaging kudzu bugs. http://www.wset.com/story/23095554/parasite-could-help-control-damaging-kudzu-bugs Abc27.com, WHTM. Parasite could help control damaging kudzu bugs. http://www.abc27.com/story/23095554/parasite-could-help-control-damaging-kudzu-bugs Abc3340. Ala. Researcher finds wasp to help fight kudzu bug. http://www.abc3340.com/story/23095404/ala-researcher-finds-wasp-to-help-fight-kudzu-bug Abc7, KATV. Parasite could help control damaging kudzu bugs. http://www.katv.com/story/23095554/parasite-could-help-control-damaging-kudzu-bugs ACES Facebook. Problems with the kudzu bug? See what Auburn researcher Xing Ping Hu is doing about it. https://www.facebook.com/AuburnResearch/posts/695135063835089 ACES Newsline and Blog. Discovery of a Local Wasp Parasitizing Kudzu Bug Eggs a Game Changer, says Auburn Researcher. https://sites.aces.edu/group/comm/newsline/Lists/Posts/Post.aspx?ID=671 ACES: https://sites.aces.edu/group/comm/newsline/Lists/Posts/Post.aspx?ID=660 AECS News Line: Alabama Extension Specialist, Auburn Researcher Gaining New Insights into Behavior and Control of the Kudzu Bug. https://sites.aces.edu/group/comm/newsline/Lists/Posts/Post.aspx?ID=660 AgFax: http://agfax.com/2013/07/17/research-gaining-new-insights-into-behavior-control-of-kudzu-bug/ AG Professional. Kudzu bugs no match for old man winters persistence. March 20, 2014. http://www.agprofessional.com/news/Kudzu-bugs-no-match-for-Old-Man-Winters-persistence-251309531.html?ref=531 Al.com. Auburn discovery of parasitic wasp could be game changer in fight to curb kudzu bug invasion. August 21, 2013 By Evan Belanger (ebelanger@al.com) http://blog.al.com/wire/2013/08/auburn_discovery_of_parasitic.html AL.com. Auburn researcher says discovery of local wasp parasitizing kudzu bug eggs a game changer. September 10, 2013 by Kimberly Wilkins (Regional extension agent of ACES). http://blog.al.com/pr-community-news/2013/09/auburn_researched_says_discove.html Alabama Mater Gardener Helpline. Extension entomologist Dr. Xing Ping Hu has discovered a wasp that parasitizes kudzu bug eggs. https://www.facebook.com/AlabamaMasterGardenerHelpline#!/photo.php?fbid=668882816475004&set=a.127135417316416.17171.124910687538889&type=1&theater Alabama News. Auburn researchers learn local predator that kills crop-eating kudzu bug  The Birmingham News. http://www.alnewsfeed.com/auburn/auburn-researchers-discover-native-predator-that-kills-crop-eating-kudzu-bug-the-birmingham-news/ Alabama Vector Management Society website: AU researcher targeting kudzu bug: http://alabamavms.org/?p=1124 Alabama Vector Management Society. AU researcher targeting kudzu bug. http://alabamavms.org/?p=1124 All Alabama, al.com: Auburn researchers discover native predator that kills crop-eating kudzu bug. http://blog.al.com/wire/2013/07/auburn_research_targets_voraci.html Auburn University. Researcher at Auburn University targeting voracious Kudzu bug. July 22, 2013. http://wireeagle.auburn.edu/news/5379 AU wire eagle. August 15. Auburn researchers second discovery could be game changer in fight to control kudzu bugs. http://wireeagle.auburn.edu/news/5411 Auburn University, College of Agriculture. Auburn scientists ID two native predators of exotic kudzu bugs. September 4, 2013. At http://www.ag.auburn.edu/comm/news/2013/Kudzubugcontrolbynativeinsects.php Auburn Village. Researcher at Auburn University targeting voracious kudzu bug. July 24, 2013. http://www.auburnvillager.com/news/state/article_0af8dce4-f471-11e2-8ef3-0019bb30f31a.html Decatur Daily. August 9. Ala. Researcher finds wasp to help fight kudzu bug. http://m.decaturdaily.com/news/other_news/state/article_9866e58c-4a8e-5684-b48d-7e76719d6a74.html E! Science News. Research targeting voracious kudzu bug. http://esciencenews.com/sources/physorg/2013/07/23/researcherargeting.voracious.kudzu.bug EntomologyToday. August 20, 2013. Reblogged from IPM in the South. http://entomologytoday.org/2013/08/20/kudzu-bug-may-be-a-game-changer-for-soybean-growers-but-biocontrol-discoveries-are-promising/ FarmAssist. Native wasp may aid in battle against kudzu bugs. http://agfax.com/2013/08/08/alabama-native-wasp-may-aid-in-battle-against-kudzu-bugs/ Fox 6 WBRC. AU receives grants to fight kudzu bugs. http://www.myfoxal.com/story/23052318/au-receives-grants-to-fight-kudzu-bugs IPM in the South. Blog. Kudzu bug may be a game changer for soybean growers, but biocontrol discoveries are promising. August 20, 2013. http://ipmsouth.com/2013/08/20/kudzu-bug-may-be-a-game-changer-for-soybean-growers-but-biocontrol-discoveries-are-promising/ JAU Auburn Daily and AU Wire Eagle: Researcher at Auburn University targeting voracious Kudzu bug. http://wireeagle.auburn.edu/news/5379 More on our own Dr. Xing Ping Hus discovery of kudzu bug predator. https://www.facebook.com/AlabamaCooperativeExtensionSystem/posts/660727823957170 News144. Auburn researcher discovers native predator that could mitigate spread of kudzu bug. http://news144.com/news/auburn-researcher-discovers-native-predator-that-could-mitigate-spread-of-kudzu-bug NewsOK. Ala. Researcher finds wasp to help fight kudzu bug. August 9, 2013. http://newsok.com/ala.-researcher-finds-wasp-to-help-fight-kudzu-bug/article/feed/576553 Opelika-Auburn News. phys.org: Researcher targeting voracious kudzu bug. http://phys.org/news/2013-07-researcherargeting-voracious-kudzu-bug.html PROAG. Research brings new insights into kudzu bug behavior, control. http://www.proag.com/News/Research-Brings-New-Insights-Into-Kudzu-Bug-Behavior-Control-2013-07-18/1052 Southeast Farm Press. Discovery of parasitic wasp could be game changer in kudzu bug battle. August 12, 2013 by Jim Langcuster. http://southeastfarmpress.com/soybeans/discovery-parasitic-wasp-could-be-game-changer-kudzu-bug-battle Southern Region IPM News Blog. August 12. Discovery of parasitic wasp could be game changer in kudzu bug battle. http://ipmsouthnews.com/2013/08/12/discovery-of-parasitic-wasp-could-be-game-changer-in-kudzu-bug-battle/ SunHerald.com. Alabama researcher finds wasp to help fight kudzu bugs. http://www.sunherald.com/2013/08/09/4863133/alabama-researcher-finds-wasp.html The Gadsden Times. Ala. Researcher finds wasp to help fight kudzu bug. http://www.gadsdentimes.com/article/20130809/APN/1308090828 The Gadsden Times. July 31. Extension corner: natural predator discovered to control kudzu bug. http://www.gadsdentimes.com/article/20130731/NEWS/130739962/1049/NEWS?Title=EXTENSION-CORNER-Natural-predator-discovered-to-control-kudzu-bug The Grower. July 18. Kudzu bug continues to move northward. http://www.thegrower.com/news/Kudzu-bug-continues-to-move-northward-216038771.html The Grower. Kudzu bug continues to move northward. http://www.thegrower.com/news/Kudzu-bug-continues-to-move-northward-216038771.html he Grower. Pint-sized wasp packs a big punch against kudzu bugs. August 8, 2013. http://www.thegrower.com/news/Pint-sized-wasp-packs-a-big-punch-against-kudzu-bugs-218847361.html The Huntsville Times. Researchers find predator that kills crop-eating kudzu bug. July 28, 8A. The News Courier. Kudzu bug may have finally met its match. August 16, 2013. http://enewscourier.com/local/x1981937034/Kudzu-bug-may-have-finally-met-its-match The PedJob.org. July 22, 2013. Researcher at Targeting Voracious Kudzu Bug Targeted News Service. http://jobs.pedjobs.org/news/Researcher-at-Auburn-University-Targeting-Voracious-Kudzu-Bug/bbDmNq454c2kJ8TNn44EMFzJYX296ifR1xcmNGtNUePv-gTKjARyYfmk801MWetrlpExw533n_rDv0u7NIApghgeZHicLnDpdRfkPd-FazwbfRk8Cf0qEgu9jH-OQMvU/?utm_source=newsReader&utm_medium=news&utm_campaign=news&utm_term=Auburn%20University The Southeast Farm Press: http://southeastfarmpress.com/soybeans/auburn-research-gaining-new-insights-kudzu-bug-behavior-control Timesfreepress.com. Alabama researcher finds wasp to help fight kudzu bug. August 9, 2013. http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2013/aug/09/alabama-researcher-finds-wasp-help-fight-kudzu-bug/ TribTown. Alabama extension service researcher finds parasitic wasp to help fight against kudzu bug. http://www.tribtown.com/view/story/7dd1c2347814428494c66809fa5fc76b/AL--Kudzu-Bug TULSAs Chanel 8. Parasite could help control damaging kudzu bugs. http://www.ktul.com/story/23095554/parasite-could-help-control-damaging-kudzu-bugs TWC Central. Researcher targeting voracious kudzu bug. http://features.rr.com/article/02Aab2n5qa9xM?q=Auburn Wire Eagle: http://wireeagle.auburn.edu/news/5411 Wire Eagle: Researcher at Auburn University targeting voracious kudzu bug. http://wireeagle.auburn.edu/news/5379 WTRM.com, channel 9: AU receives grants to fight kudzu bugs. http://www.wtvm.com/story/23052318/au-receives-grants-to-fight-kudzu-bugs WTVM.com. Ala. Researcher finds wasp to help fight kudzu bug. Augst 3, 2013. http://www.wtvm.com/story/23095404/ala-researcher-finds-wasp-to-help-fight-kudzu-bug Facebook posts on Alabama Extension Invasive Plant Page  4/10/13, 7/29/13, 4/28/14

Leveraged Funds none

Outcomes Short term effects - More than 1635 people increased awareness and knowledge of the kudzu bug problem, potential impacts of kudzu bugs on soybeans and other plants, interaction with kudzu, and methods of kudzu and kudzu bug control during face-to-face meetings. Thousands more were provided information for increased awareness, knowledge and ability to treat kudzu bugs through the more than 100 articles (Extension publications, newsletter articles, refereed journal articles, on-line media, radio, TV, newspapers and social media). We used pre- and post- testing to measure the effectiveness of our kudzu bug training efforts among Extension educators. We directed learning assessments specifically for our train the trainer component. Our survey data indicates that 44% of surveyed Alabama Cooperative Extension Agents each receive up to 50 questions per year from growers and the general public regarding kudzu bugs, Additionally, 11% receive up to 100 questions per year. This has resulted in considerable interest in In-service training on this topic. For learning assessment, we used Turning Point Clickers (Response Card RF LCD, Turning Technologies, Youngstown, Ohio 44503) to administer the testing. We have repeatedly found that the clicker technology engages and holds the attention of audiences very well. The clickers allow for anonymous interaction, which has greatly increased our ability to survey audience knowledge for groups reluctant to interact with more traditional methods. Pre testing was conducted with a series of 12 questions with two warm up questions to verify audience use of the technology. The twelve questions were designed as a multiple choice test and participants were given 45 seconds to answer each question. All audience responses and correct answers were hidden from view during the pre-test. Questions covered a range of topics regarding kudzu bug biology, ecology and control, and kudzu biology and management as well. Following the pre-test, kudzu bug training presentations were made by Drs. Ping Hu, Tim Reed and Stephen Enloe on a diverse set of kudzu bug and kudzu management topics that were addressed in the pre-test questions. These Powerpoint based presentations did not use the clicker technology but did effectively engage the audience. All pre-test questions were covered in the presentations but no hints or direct mention of each question was made (i.e., no test prepping occurred). Following the series of presentations, we concluded by giving the same test questions again using the Turning Point clickers. Following each question, we then presented the audience responses and discussed each question and the correct answer for learning reinforcement. We found that post test scores increased by 18% over pre test scores, from 65 to 83%. This is a very encouraging increase in knowledge by participants and we were pleased with the outcome, given the very technical nature of the material. Questions that were missed have also allowed us to examine training materials and work to improve extension programming and educational materials produced.

Impacts Primary objectives- Develop regional extension training materials for integrated kudzu bug/kudzu pest complex biology, ecology and management; provide information and technology to increase the ability of Extension educators to answer questions re:kudzu bugs and their control. Long term impacts have not been measured as this was a one-year project. However, as outlined in the previous section we used pre- and post- testing to measure the effectiveness of our kudzu bug training efforts with Extension personnel. For learning assessment, we used Turning Point Clickers (Response Card RF LCD, Turning Technologies, Youngstown, Ohio 44503) to administer the testing. We have repeatedly found that the clicker technology engages and holds the attention of audiences very well. The clickers allow for anonymous interaction, which has greatly increased our ability to survey audience knowledge for groups reluctant to interact with more traditional methods. Pre testing was conducted with a series of 12 questions with two warm up questions to verify audience use of the technology. The twelve questions were designed as a multiple choice test and participants were given 45 seconds to answer each question. All audience responses and correct answers were hidden from view during the pre-test. Questions covered a range of topics regarding kudzu bug biology, ecology and control, and kudzu biology and management as well. Following the pre-test, kudzu bug training presentations on a diverse set of kudzu bug and kudzu management topics that were addressed in the pre-test questions. These Powerpoint based presentations did not use the clicker technology but did effectively engage the audience. All pre-test questions were covered in the presentations but no hints or direct mention of each question was made (i.e., no test prepping occurred). Following the series of presentations, we gave the same test questions again using the Turning Point clickers. Following each question, we then presented the audience responses and discussed each question and the correct answer for learning reinforcement. We found that post test scores increased by 18% over pre test scores, from 65 to 83%. This is a very encouraging increase in knowledge by participants and we were pleased with the outcome, given the very technical nature of the material. Questions that were missed have also allowed us to examine training materials and work to improve extension programming and educational materials produced.

Non-technical summary and Results First discovered in Georgia in 2009, kudzu bugs (Megacopta cribraria F.) have become a serious pest threatening soybean, vegetable, and horticultural producers across much of the Southeast. Kudzu bugs are also a nuisance of homes and buildings, especially in kudzu-infested urban areas. This pest is also of national significance as international trade of some US agricultural commodities may be at risk due to fears of accidental introductions in contaminated shipments. As the invasion front of kudzu bugs moved across Alabama it was critical to develop and provide information about this new insect pest to stakeholders across the state. Survey data indicated that 44% of surveyed Alabama Cooperative Extension Agents each receive up to 50 questions per year from growers and the general public regarding kudzu bugs. Some receive up to 100 questions per year. The overall objective of this project was to provide information about kudzu bugs, their impact and control, and the interaction between kudzu bugs and kudzu to Extension educators, farmers, soybean producers, homeowners and the general public. We conducted 33 events, including workshops, in-service trainings, webinars and field days which were attended by 1635 people. For the in-service trainings we found that post-test scores increased by 18% over pre-test scores, from 65 to 83%. This is a very encouraging increase in knowledge by participants and we were pleased with the outcome, given the very technical nature of the material. Questions that were missed have also allowed us to examine training materials and work to improve extension programming and educational materials produced. Fourteen Extension publications and newsletter articles were written, providing Extension educators with information and training materials. Information was also provided to the scientific community through publication of 5 refereed journal articles, and 11 conference presentations. Other stakeholders and the general public were reached through 85 news articles provided through on-line and social media sources, radio, TV, newspapers and other popular press outlets.

Close Window

Southern IPM Center North Carolina State University 1730 Varsity Drive, Suite 110 Raleigh, NC 27606 p. 919.513.1432   f. 919.513.1114		Developed by the Center for IPM © Copyright CIPM 2004-2025