Insects, Pests & Diseases

We have a wide range of information, publications and specialists that cover an array of questions related to insects, pests and diseases. Topics run the gamut from beneficial and pest insect identification to integrated pest management regimens and protection from vector-borne diseases.

Related Departments: Entomology, Plant Pathology and Microbiology

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Pest and Disease Lab Diagnostic Services

Texas Apiary Inspection Service assists beekeepers by checking nosema and varroa levels in order to help diagnose problems found in hives.
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Insects, Pests & Diseases

Publications

Publication

Turfgrasses are vital to landscapes, athletic fields, and golf courses; they enhance our quality of life.

Publication

This factsheet discusses emerald ash borer control, including when and how to apply insecticides, which insecticides to use, and how to mitigate nontarget effects.

Publication

Overcome the frustration of battling a deceptive foe like Downy Mildew with our comprehensive five-page guide, providing you with all the information you need to prevent, detect, and effectively manage Downy Mildew and protect your grapevines.

Programs

We offer numerous free and affordable programs on agriculture and natural resources, family and community health, economic health and youth development. We also offer many volunteer opportunities. Browse the list below.
Program

The Plant Pathology (PLPM) Extension program provides services across Texas through subject-matter specialists in areas of plant health management, plant diseases, plant-microbe interactions and environmental sciences.

Program

Pesticide applicator certification standards are set to ensure that restricted pesticides are available to those who protect food, forage, structures, health, water, rights-of-way, and landscapes.

Program

In the Natural Resources project area, youth gain knowledge and experience in a variety of outdoor topic areas such as water conservation, outdoor living skills, forestry, fishing, and more. Young Texans involved in these projects are introduced to a vast array of educational and fun opportunities to be immersed in the world around them.

Courses

Course

This introductory course is for School district administrators, animal control specialists, code enforcement agents, and pest management professionals. This course offers SPCS-TDA license holders 1 Pest CEU toward annual license renewal.

Course

Do you know how to apply IPM principles to your school garden as required by Texas state law? After this course, learners will know how IPM principles apply to school gardens, differentiate between harmful and beneficial insects, and more. District School IPM Coordinators can use this module as part of their education plan.

Course

Prepare to take the Private Pesticide Applicator Exam administered by the Texas Department of Agriculture with this course designed for pesticide applicators in Texas. Private pesticide applicators use or supervise the use of restricted-use or state-limited-use pesticides or herbicides to produce an agricultural commodity.

All Resources on Insects, Pests & Diseases

  • Course

    Do you know how to apply IPM principles to your school garden as required by Texas state law? After this course, learners will know how IPM principles apply to school gardens, differentiate between harmful and beneficial insects, and more. District School IPM Coordinators can use this module as part of their education plan.

  • Course

    This introductory course is for School district administrators, animal control specialists, code enforcement agents, and pest management professionals. This course offers SPCS-TDA license holders 1 Pest CEU toward annual license renewal.

  • Course

    Prepare to take the Private Pesticide Applicator Exam administered by the Texas Department of Agriculture with this course designed for pesticide applicators in Texas. Private pesticide applicators use or supervise the use of restricted-use or state-limited-use pesticides or herbicides to produce an agricultural commodity.

  • Course

    This course is designed to assist pest management companies in training new employees. By taking this course, apprentices and other employees will have the opportunity to receive 20 hours of in-depth training required by the Texas Department of Agriculture Structural Pest Control Service.

  • Course

    This 8-hour course is designed to satisfy the Apprentice Training Requirements as specified in Rule 7.132 (i) (2) and will cover common termites in Texas along with other wood-destroying insects.

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