We study orchard arthropod communities, population dynamics, and trophic interactions as they respond to abiotic conditions and invasive species in the Great Lakes ecosystem. We use the tools of chemical, behavioral, and landscape ecology, and phenological and environmental modeling to develop and improve Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices that are biorational, sustainable, and resilient. This includes practices to improve above and below ground biodiversity in support of biological control and running efficacy trials to test both conventional and organic pest management options that work for the Michigan tree fruit industry and for orchards in the Great Lakes region.
