WASHINGTON COMMISSION ON INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT HOLDS MEETING TO ADVANCE IPM RESEARCH

The Washington Commission on Integrated Pest Management (WCIPM) held a meeting September 10 at the Washington State Potato Commission (WSPC) office, bringing together commissioners representing Washington’s crop commissions, Industry, Washington State University (WSU), and the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA).

The meeting focused on strengthening integrated pest management (IPM) research and coordination across Washington’s agricultural industry. Commissioners discussed several priorities, including Washington IPM tours, research funding opportunities, and updates to the commission’s bylaws. A key focus of the meeting was the commission’s upcoming call for IPM research proposals. Official advertising and information regarding the proposal submission process will soon be posted and distributed by the commission.

Researchers across Washington working on pest management issues affecting a variety of crops are encouraged to watch the WCIPM website for announcements regarding proposal deadlines, eligibility, submission requirements, and other details. Researchers interested in submitting proposals will be able to work through their respective crop commissions as part of the submission process. The research funding program is intended to support work addressing pest management challenges faced by Washington growers and to advance practical, science-based IPM strategies across the state.

The commission will conduct its annual meeting December 15–16 in Ellensburg. During the annual meeting, commissioners are expected to review and evaluate submitted research proposals and vote on the distribution of available research funds.

With the proposal announcement approaching, researchers and agricultural stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed through the WCIPM website and their respective crop commissions for official updates and submission instructions.