MASTER GARDENERS AS CITIZEN VOLUNTEER PEST SURVEY LEADERS
Horticulture & Turfgrass
Nicholas Polanin
Associate Professor
Rutgers NJAES Cooperative Extension
BRIDGEWATER
Abstract
In 2010, APHIS piloted a new, multi-state outreach and early pest detection initiative that went beyond simply informing citizens of the threats posed by invasive species, and instead engaged citizen volunteers to actively assist with the survey of invasive species and report findings both negative and/or positive to APHIS. As a result of the success of The Citizen Volunteer Pest Survey (CVPS) pilot, APHIS launched a comprehensive effort to survey for ALB and the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) in 21 states. In 2011, the NJ Department of Agriculture (NJDA) partnered with Rutgers Cooperative Extension (RCE), specifically in eight counties bordering or adjacent to Pennsylvania. This partnership utilized the existing Rutgers Master Gardener Garden Helplines to monitor for reports and incidents of ALB and EAB, along with BMSB and SPB, to name a few. Data were collected monthly via email from the cooperating offices and a spreadsheet was created to share the findings with NJDA personnel. A Memorandum of Understanding was created to focus both NJDA and RCE efforts in the survey, from data collection and training on invasive forest pests for Master Gardeners to principle contacts for both agencies and supplemental funding available through APHIS. This partnered approach can be utilized across the nation in expanding the First Detector training and status of many Master Gardeners to enhance their role in protecting our valuable forests and natural resources.
Authors: Polanin, N.
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Polanin, N. County Agent II, Rutgers NJAES Cooperative Extension, New Jersey, 08807