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.

All Insects, Pests & Diseases Publications

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.

All Insects, Pests & Diseases Programs

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 Insects, Pests & Diseases Courses

All Resources on Insects, Pests & Diseases

  • Course

    This online course will provide an overview and in-depth knowledge of mosquitoes
    of Texas, the diseases they carry, and how to properly manage them.

  • Course

    This course is designed for landowners and pesticide applicators who are looking for aquatic vegetation management techniques or CEUs. During this course, you will learn why aquatic vegetation is problematic, how to manage it, prevention methods, and effective forms of control and mode of action.

  • Course

    Explore how to start a beehive with this online beekeeping course for beginners. Learn how to start a beehive, honey bee biology, beekeeping equipment needed and more.

  • Course

    This online course will teach you how to check for bed bugs, what they look like, how to get rid of bed bugs, and modern treatment options.

  • Course

    This course is for new or veteran school IPM coordinators, school administrators, and others who need to understand the Texas school IPM requirements.

  • Course

    Any plant growing in the wrong place can be a weed. Crepe myrtles growing on a putting green would certainly be weeds. The same goes for bermudagrass growing in flower. Learn the basics of identifying and controlling weeds, as well as cultural practices, equipment, and application and reading labels correctly.

  • Course

    As urban areas expand and homeowners continue to want attractive lawns and landscapes, the use of pesticides to control plant pests has continued to grow. Take this course to become an apprentice and learn about pesticides and their proper use, as well as how to apply them for home, lawn, and other landscapes.

  • Course

    This online course will enable cotton growers and pesticide applicators to identify signs of infestation of common insect pests.

  • Course

    This online course will equip corn growers and pesticide applicators with knowledge of insect pest identification, thresholds, treatment, and prevention in Texas corn.

  • Course

    This online course covers the types of butterflies in Texas and how to attract them. Homeowners or garden enthusiasts will learn to invite new fluttery friends to the neighborhood.

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