Organic Pest and Weed Management for Service Providers in the West

Join the Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) on Tuesday, May 27 at 11:00 AM PT for a webinar designed specifically for extension agents, technical service providers (TSPs), and others who support organic and transitioning farmers in the West.

Pest and weed pressure is one of the most significant challenges facing organic producers — affecting crop yields, product quality, and the economic sustainability of farming operations. The western region presents a uniquely diverse and demanding set of pest management challenges, from the highly competitive weeds that thrive in irrigated fields to insects and diseases that threaten everything from wheat and alfalfa to tree fruit and vegetables. Having the right knowledge and tools to advise farmers is more important than ever.

In this 75-minute session, presenters will walk through the most common insects, diseases, and weeds found across the WSARE region — from apple maggot and wheat stem sawfly to kochia and field bindweed — and connect that regional context to the pest management requirements outlined in the National Organic Program. Drawing on research conducted in the West, the session will focus on practical, science-backed strategies that extension agents and TSPs can bring directly to the farmers they serve, covering approaches to weed management, insect and disease control, and the “many little hammers” IPM framework that underpins organic production.

There will be time for live Q&A at the end of the session.

This webinar is eligible for 1.0 CEU credit in Integrated Pest Management for Certified Crop Advisors.

Register for the event here!

Presented by OFRF, with support from the Western Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education (WSARE) program.