AMES, Iowa – A new creative face has joined the Integrated Pest Management program with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
Sebastian Eugene Bartholomew is a fictional but believable phytopoet who muses on mold, ponders plants and bellows bug ballads. He is at the epicenter of the Phytopoetry Project, which has made its debut on the IPM YouTube channel.
Phytopoetry, meaning plant poetry, is written on the subject of plant diseases, insects, weeds, and other pests. The Phytopoetry Project not only showcases poetry about plant pests but points people to relevant extension resources, many of which promote the use of Integrated Pest Management.
Adam Sisson, an industry extension specialist with the Integrated Pest Management program, developed Sebastian’s poems and character. He has taken on a creative persona that lures viewers in and keeps them curious.
“Extension resources exist on a lot of Integrated Pest Management topics such as plant disease and insect pests,” said Sisson. “We want Iowans and others to be aware of these resources.”
Brandon Kleinke, the videographer for this project, is very excited about being able to present resources in this way. “It’s a blast seeing Adam in character! He comes up with awesome commentary and makes it super easy to film,” said Kleinke.
These videos take the viewer on fun, humorous adventures around Iowa State’s campus, Horticulture Research Station, and other exciting places while simultaneously offering poetry and resources regarding plant pests.
Links to relevant extension resources will be listed in the description box under each YouTube video.
Watch the official trailer and first episode in the series. Subscribe to the channel so you don’t miss out on upcoming phytopoetry episodes and more IPM videos.
Other IPM related programs, projects and information can be found at Iowa State’s Integrated Pest Management website.
Shareable photo: Phytopoet Sebastian Eugene Bartholomew. Played by Adam Sisson of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
