Jacqueline Pohl
Jacqueline Pohl Bio
Communications Specialist
North Central IPM Center, Iowa State University
Drawing on a background in biology, English, and nearly 20 years of communications experience, Jacqueline works with researchers, Extension specialists, and IPM professionals to share science-based information about insects, diseases, and weeds. Her work includes developing news stories, pest alerts, webinars, websites, newsletters, and other outreach resources that support integrated pest management across the North Central region.
Integrated Pest Management News

Trends and Management of Plant-Parasitic Nematodes in Missouri Soybeans: Webinar Recording
Soil cyst nematode and other plant-parasitic nematode taxa, prevalence, and population densities in Missouri soybean fields are summarized by Dr. Mandy Bish and Jefferson Barizon from the University of Missouri.

2027 Funds Available from the North Central IPM Center
The North Central IPM Center is accepting applications for 2027 Critical Issue and Working Group grants. Up to $30,000 is available per project to support regional collaboration and solutions to pest management challenges across the North Central region.

Join Our Team: North Central IPM Center is Hiring
The North Central Integrated Pest Management (NCIPM) Center at Iowa State University is seeking applicants for a Partnership and Engagement Extension Specialist. Deadline to apply is Sunday, October 11, 2026.

From Detection to Action: eDNA, 3D Printing, and Outreach for Spotted Lanternfly
Learn how eDNA, 3D printing, and grower outreach are helping Ohio prepare for spotted lanternfly and what these approaches could mean for SLF management across the Midwest.

AI-driven Image Analysis for Increased Accuracy and Precision of Honey Bee Colony Health and Productivity
Discover how AI-driven image analysis improves honey bee colony health assessments by delivering more accurate, consistent and efficient regulatory field studies.

New Gulf Coast Tick Pest Alert Published
The newly published Gulf Coast Tick Pest Alert will help you identify this tick species and learn how to reduce the risk of tick-borne disease.

New Corn Leafhopper Pest Alert Published
A new two-page summary about the corn leafhopper is available to improve awareness and monitoring of this insect pest, which spreads corn stunt disease pathogens.

RNAi and Varroa Mites-New Technology for Managing an Old Pest
While several products are available to manage Varroa mites, some are becoming less effective as the mites develop resistance. Learn about a new RNAi control option that may help fill the gap.

Webinar Recording: Are You Smarter Than a Lone Star Tick?
Prepare to be fascinated (and a little unsettled) as Dr. Holly Gaff from Old Dominion University shares her trivia-worthy tick expertise.

Webinar Recording: Pesticide Risk Tool: Understanding Risk and Measuring Impact
This webinar features Ariel Larson and Peter Wertz from the IPM Institute as they introduce the online Pesticide Risk Tool (PRT), a tool that evaluates pesticide risk by modeling both toxicity and exposure.

Genetic Biocontrol of New World Screwworm and Spotted Wing Drosophila
Is it possible to reduce, or even eliminate, New World screwworm populations? Learn about this livestock pest and control efforts.

Breeding Efforts to Curb Cucurbit Downy Mildew
Learn about efforts to breed cucumbers, winter squash and cantaloupe melons to improve cucurbit downy mildew resistance while maintaining taste, fruit quality, and productivity.

Spying on Insects with the Insect Eavesdropper
As Dr. Emily Bick looked for ways to make insect population estimates cheaper, she began to experiment with a different strategy: listen instead of look. The Insect Eavesdropper was created to make it easier to monitor and make treatment decisions for problem insects.

IPM Strategies for Reducing Insect Pest Damage in Midwest Blueberries
New methods for both monitoring spotted-wing drosophila (SWD) in blueberries and managing SWD are available. The new monitoring method is focused on larval numbers, and it works for blueberry maggot also.

IPM Network – Measuring Capacity, Framing the Future: Webinar
Dr. Daren Mueller, professor and extension plant pathologist at Iowa State University, summarizes results of the 2023 survey including the current state of IPM in the United States, along with opportunities for improvement and future activities.

Soybean Aphids are Resistant to Pyrethroids, Now What?
Besides insecticides, there are two other strategies for managing soybean aphids: planting aphid-resistant soybean varieties and using biological controls like parasitoid wasps. Ideally, farmers should look for soybean varieties that have at least two “resistance against Aphis glycines” genes.

Integrating Long-Lasting Insecticide Netting into IPM Programs after Harvest
Dr. Rob Morrison, research entomologist with the USDA Agricultural Research Service’s Center for Grain and Animal Health Research has been researching the use of long-lasting insecticide netting as a control method for insect control efforts in storage facilities.

Development of Laser Weed Control Robot for Sustainable Farming
Dr. Hongbo Zhang, assistant professor at Middle Tennessee State University, is propelling integrated pest management toward the future by combining robotics with weed management efforts.

Updates to Pesticide Labels and Mitigation Options; Protection for Endangered Species
Whenever pesticides are used, we have a responsibility to make sure they are used safely and that they do not cause harm to people, wildlife or the environment. Efforts are ramping up to ensure pesticide impacts are minimal, especially for species that have been listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

Pollinator-Safe Fungicides: Floral Microbial Biocontrol of Anthracnose in Blueberry
Dr. Caitlin Rering’s lab has been working to identify a microbe that is already established in orchard ecosystems that can compete with and inhibit Anthracnose infection in blueberries.

Innovative Approaches in Phytopathometry and Epidemiology with a Focus on Corn Tar Spot
Recent monitoring efforts show that tar spot is possible to detect early, before it becomes widespread and difficult to treat. Learn about monitoring efforts, assessments of tar spot spread, and details about related research.

Great Lakes Urban Agriculture Working Group 2024 Achievements
The Great Lakes Urban Agriculture Working Group provides resources to support urban farmers, whether you’re starting a new urban farm or managing an existing plot.

Pesticide Mitigations, Labels, and Bulletins
There’s a national effort to provide better protection for species that are listed as endangered or threatened under the Endangered Species Act. What does this mean for landowners and pesticide applicators?

Asiatic Garden Beetle as an Emerging Pest of Corn
Now that the Asian garden beetle has become a field crop pest, more research is needed to understand its biology and behavior. Several sampling methods were trialed to improve monitoring efforts.

New Jumping Worm Pest Alert Published
Jumping worms are expanding their range across the United States and are easily spread through potting soil, mulch and compost. Learn how to spot these invasive pests.

Phomopsis Stem Canker of Sunflower: Is Fungicide Resistance a Problem?
Dr. Febina Mathew summarizes 15 years of research on Phomopsis stem canker, its impacts on sunflower crop yields, and options for management.

Spotted Lanternfly 3D Print Resources Available
Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) is slowly invading the North Central region. Research and monitoring is increasing but training is needed to help prepare for identification and management in new areas.

New Bed Bug Pest Alert: Learn to Identify and Prevent These Unwanted Guests
The presence of bed bugs can be a stressful and expensive experience. This revised pest alert provides information about bed bugs, how to identify them, and ways to prevent them from taking up residence in your home.

Using Social Network Analysis to Understand Pest Management Used by Vegetable Growers
How do social networks affect adoption of IPM practices? In this webinar, management of carrot weevils was used as an example of the effectiveness of outreach techniques.

Back to Basics on Endangered Species Conservation
Learn why the US Environmental Protection Agency is revising policies and rules related to pesticide use. Complex topics are explained simply and succinctly.

Yellow-Legged Hornet Pest Alert Supports Georgia Eradication Efforts
The yellow-legged hornet is a new, invasive insect that was first found in Georgia in 2023. A new two-page summary is available to support outreach efforts and encourage the public to set traps and report sightings of the yellow-legged hornet.

Urban Farm Resources Developed by the Great Lakes Urban Ag Working Group
Learn about resources available from the Great Lakes Urban Ag IPM Working Group to help you grow crops in urban areas.

Integrated Pest Management Projects Funded
The Regional IPM Centers are excited to announce that four innovative projects have been funded to bring new partners to integrated pest management (IPM).

Ecological Epidemiology of the Asian Longhorned Tick
Asian longhorned ticks (ALHT) are special. If one tick makes it to a new location, it can begin a new ALHT population all by itself. Learn more about this tiny tick in this webinar.

Highlights and Impacts of the 2018-22 USDA/NIFA North Central Integrated Pest Management Center
Lynnae Jess, co-director of the North Central Integrated Pest Management Center, shared highlights about the Center during the November “Pests and Progress” webinar. Jess’s presentation focused on Center activities from 2018 to 2022 and included activities from working groups, funded research projects, an IPM survey, and communication activities.

Soybean Gall Midge, Spatial and Temporal Dynamics
Soybean gall midge is a relatively new problem for soybean growers. While it was first identified in 2011, it did not cause widespread issues until 2018. Crop rotation can help reduce populations, but it is important to also watch for areas where corn and soybean rotations are near each other because the adults can move between fields.

Incorporating Poacic Acid into a Turfgrass Disease Management Program
Learn about recent efforts to use poacic acid to control dollar spot disease in turfgrass.

Tick Pest Alert Updated
This two-page handout includes color photos of US ticks to help with identification. The handout also includes a description of tick life cycles, basic information about the spread and symptoms of tick-borne diseases, and maps that show the confirmed distribution of common ticks.

Trapping, Degree Day Model for Missouri Berry Crops
Spotted wing drosophila is an important pest of berry crops and ribes because it can directly damage soft fruit crops by laying its eggs inside the berries.

SDS Risk And Management
Sudden death syndrome (SDS) is a disease that affects soybeans. Infection begins in the roots and causes them to rot. SDS also produces a toxin that travels up the plant. Tips for recognizing SDS are described.
Newsletters

October 2026 Central Issue
The October 2026 Central Issue newsletter shares tips for dealing with fall pests like spiders, stinkbugs, armyworms, and lady beetles, along with other info about how to prep apple orchards and alfalfa fields for winter.

September 2026 Central Issue
The September 2026 Central Issue from the North Central IPM Center features the latest integrated pest management news, research, pest alerts, funding opportunities, webinars, podcasts, and upcoming events for agriculture and pest management professionals.

August 2026 Central Issue
This issue features spotted lanternfly detection and management, upcoming NCIPMC Critical Issue and Working Group grants, USDA and EPA regulatory updates, advances in weed and pest management, soybean aphid and soybean tentiform leafminer activity, sunflower pests, fall armyworm, southern rust, and other seasonal pest concerns.

July 2026 Central Issue
Stay informed with the July 2026 Central Issue from the North Central IPM Center. Explore the latest integrated pest management news, including insect, weed, and plant disease updates, pollinator research, Extension resources, pest alerts, webinars, and practical IPM tools for agriculture and natural resource professionals.

June 2026 Central Issue
The June 2026 Central Issue features emerging pest alerts, pollinator health innovations, extension publications, webinars, podcasts, and practical strategies for managing insects, weeds, diseases, and invasive species.

May 2026 Central Issue
Highlights of the May 2026 Central Issue include RNAi technology for managing Varroa mites in honey bee colonies, Pollinator Week resources, weed and plant disease podcasts, tick and Lyme disease awareness materials, and practical integrated pest management strategies that protect agriculture, pollinators, human health, and the environment.

April 2026 Central Issue
April 2026 Central Issue includes updates on invasive pests, pollinator protection, pesticide safety, crop disease and weed management, educational webinars, and emerging IPM research that supports sustainable agriculture, healthy communities, and environmental stewardship.

March 2026 Central Issue
The March 2026 Central Issue features the latest integrated pest management news, research, webinars, and extension resources for agriculture, natural areas, schools, and communities.

February 2026 Central Issue
This issue highlights the Pesticide Risk Tool, genetic biocontrol research for New World screwworm and spotted wing drosophila, biological pesticides, plant breeding for disease resistance, pesticide stewardship, and practical IPM strategies for sustainable agriculture.

January 2026 Central Issue
The January 2026 Central Issue highlights emerging pest management research, biological control, pollinator health, invasive species updates, webinars, and practical science-based strategies for managing insects, weeds, and plant diseases.
December 2025 Central Issue
News stories shared in the December 2025 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
November 2025 Central Issue
News stories shared in the November 2025 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
October 2025 Central Issue
News stories shared in the October 2025 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
September 2025 Central Issue
News stories shared in the September 2025 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
August 2025 Central Issue
News stories shared in the August 2025 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
July 2025 Central Issue
News stories shared in the July 2025 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
June 2025 Central Issue
News stories shared in the June 2025 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
May 2025 Central Issue
News stories shared in the May 2025 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
April 2025 Central Issue
News stories shared in the April 2025 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
March 2025 Central Issue
News stories shared in the March 2025 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
February 2025 Central Issue
News stories shared in the February 2025 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
January 2025 Central Issue
News stories shared in the January 2025 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
December 2024 Central Issue
News stories shared in the December 2024 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
November 2024 Central Issue
News stories shared in the November 2024 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
October 2024 Central Issue
News stories shared in the October 2024 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
September 2024 Central Issue
News stories shared in the September 2024 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center

August 2024 Central Issue
News stories shared in the August 2024 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
July 2024 Central Issue
News stories shared in the July 2024 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
June 2024 Central Issue
News stories shared in the June 2024 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
May 2024 Central Issue
News stories shared in the May 2024 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
April 2024 Central Issue
News stories shared in the April 2024 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
March 2024 Central Issue
News stories shared in the March 2024 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
February 2024 Central Issue
News stories shared in the February 2024 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
January 2024 Central Issue
News stories shared in the January 2024 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
December 2023 Central Issue
News stories shared in the December 2023 Central Issue appear below. Subscribe to receive the Central Issue newsletter monthly via email. North Central IPM Center
November 2023 Central Issue
News stories shared in the November 2023 Central Issue appear below. North Central IPM Center Updates Webinar Recording: 2018-2022 Highlights from the North Central Integrated
October 2023 Central Issue
News stories shared in the October 2023 Central Issue appear below. North Central IPM Center Updates Webinar Recording: Soybean Gall Midge: Spatial and Temporal Dynamics