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

This fact sheet provides a brief set of information regarding biology, damage, identification, scouting, and management options.

Publication

This 7-page guide functions as an aid, primarily to school Integrated Pest Management (IPM) coordinators, to address the presence of feral hogs on school grounds.

Publication

Ponds are nutrient sinks-a place where incoming nutrients from the watershed accumulate over time. This makes ponds the perfect place for aquatic vegetation to grow, often negatively impacting evaporation rates, recreation, aesthetic value, fish, and wildlife habitat. Preventing aquatic vegetation from entering or becoming established in a pond can save time and money in the […]

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 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 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.

Course

This course provides two CEUs to TDA agricultural applicators. Aerial applicators will receive the required credits for drift minimization and safety addressing human factors. All TDA applicators who complete the course will gain knowledge of spray drift minimization as well as pesticide safety.

All Insects, Pests & Diseases Courses

All Resources on Insects, Pests & Diseases

  • Publication

    This fact sheet provides a brief set of information regarding biology, damage, identification, scouting, and management options.

  • 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

    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 8 hour course is designed to satisfy the Apprentice Training Requirements as specified in Rule 7.132 (i) (2) and will cover common structural invertebrate and vertebrate pests of the United States, particularly in the state of Texas.

  • 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 online course will provide an overview and in-depth knowledge of mosquitoes of Texas, the diseases they carry and how to properly manage them. Approved for 7 AG and & SPCS CEUs through TDA.

  • Course

    This introductory course will teach you to connect ant behavior and treatment methods, identify different species, perform ant treatments, and solve problems using IPM practices. In Texas, this course is approved for one hour of General-Pest Features category CEU credit.

  • Course

    This Picolinic Acid Chemistry Training covers the application requirements for the use of Invora™ herbicide for brush and weed management on rangeland sites in Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.

  • Course

    Are you interested in learning about plant diseases and how to detect pathogens and pests? This online course introduces plant pathology basics to horticulture enthusiasts. Upon completion, learners will know how to identify issues based on visible symptoms and locate the resources to treat basic plant ailments.

  • 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.

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