Insect ID

Train-the-Trainer Short Course

Geocoris Nymph on Aster Oregon State University Extension Specialist Silvia Rondon, along with other University faculty from Oregon and Washington, are teaming up to train a group of volunteers that will learn to identify insects of the Pacific Northwest and then help others do the same.

Rondon, who is passionate about the importance of proper identification, says, "Our team is looking forward to sharing our knowledge about insect ID and to be able to 'roll the ball' and train the trainers. All classes are FULL, with the exception of the second session May 6-8, 2010 in Hermiston, OR. Click here for the application.

The 20-hour short course is designed to train University Extension field faculty, Extension Master Gardeners, agency professionals, and crop consultants on identification of insects - both beneficial and pesky bugs. False Wheathead Armyworm

The training will include many hands-on aspects:

collecting, mounting, and identifying insects,
using a stereo microscope, and
using an insect key.

Training will also include insect management and creation of an educational display. Class enrollment is limited to 20 individuals at each site.

There is no charge for the course and applicants will be screened to insure that the course in a good match for their skills and interests plus their ability to do the community service project (10 hours minimum) as a payback for the training.

Handouts will be posted weekly to allow students to prepare ahead for the class. Some collection materials and equipment will be provided during the class, but students are encouraged to begin their collections NOW, if possible.

Class Handouts:

Locations:

~~Hermiston Agricultural Research & Extension Center, May 3-5, 2010, Hermiston, Oregon;~~ FULL
Hermiston Agricultural Research & Extension Center, May 6-8, 2010, Hermiston, Oregon; Accepting Applications
~~WSU Extension Office, June 2-4, 2010, Colfax, WA;~~ FULL

Instructors:

Silvia Rondon, OSU Extension Entomologist, and
Chris Marshal, OSU Entomology Taxonomist.

Class facilitators:

Mary Corp, OSU Extension
Steve Van Vleet, WSU Extension

For more information, please contact OSU Extension Service for an application packet:

Email Mary Corp - (541) 278-5403 or Silvia Rondon - (541) 567-8321

Funding for this course was provided in part by WSARE.

For more information on spotted wing drosophila and other insect pests of the region see: