Course Description

Urban and Industrial Entomology is a 12-week, stand-alone course that presents basic elements of entomology, then builds on this background to provide you with the principles of Integrated Pest Management(IPM).

In the first weeks, we'll cover insect classification, biology, ecology, and behavior. We'll discuss how insects function, relating the basics you've learned to insect management and control.

In the remaining weeks you'll examine insect pests by group, emphasizing identification, damage, biology, management, and control of major species. Experts in the field will give three lectures at the end of the course covering major vertebrate pests such as rats, mice, moles, gophers, skunks, raccoons, snakes, and birds.

Course Objectives

• sight-identify important insects, related arthropods, and major pest vertebrates that infest homes and commercial businesses;
• describe life cycles of pests and their habits;
• correctly identify damage and other direct and indirect evidence of infestation by key insect and vertebrate pests;
• discuss appropriate management options to effectively control major urban pests;
• discuss the concept of Integrated Pest Management and relate this concept and its principles to the urban environment.

Initial certification or recertification under FIFRA (Amended) 1972:

This course, supplemented with appropriate reading materials and testing, meets both initial certification and recertification requirements for Nebraska commercial and noncommercial applicators of restricted use pesticides. Initial certification will require successfully testing with the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA). To prepare for initial certification examinations in Nebraska, obtain study packet(s) by contacting the pesticide education office at the University of Nebraska, 402-472-1632.

Recertification is available by request to the NDA upon successful completion of this course with a proctored final exam.

Certification categories include:

Structural/Health (Category 8), Public Health (Category 9) and Fumigation (Category 11).

Since Nebraska has negotiated agreements with the states of Kansas, South Dakota, Missouri, Wyoming, Iowa, Oklahoma, Indiana, Montana, and Washington, individuals taking this course should qualify for reciprocal certification. Contact the agency responsible for recertification in your own state to determine whether the course will meet your state's requirements.

This certification program is purely voluntary and is administered by the Nebraska State Pest Control Association (NSPCA). Completion of the requirements for this course will prepare individuals to take the certification examination given by NSPCA. For more information WDI Certification and NSPCA membership, contact Alice Licht, executive secretary/treasurer, NSPCA, at 1111 Lincoln Mall, Suite 308, Lincoln, NE 68508-2882, telephone (402) 476-1528.

Instructor

Dr. Tom Weissling
310A Entomology Hall, East Campus
402-472-8680
tweissling2@unl.edu