This week, the Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology (PPEM) welcomed Dr. David Crowder, an entomologist from Washington State University, as the featured speaker for the John Pesek Colloquium on Sustainable Agriculture. His seminar, “Pest Management in the Digital Age: Lessons Learned from the First 50 Years,” brought together students, faculty, and researchers for a timely discussion on how technology is transforming agriculture.
Dr. Crowder’s talk focused on the intersection of weather, pest activity, and digital forecasting tools. He explained that the first online platform linking weather data with agricultural forecasts was created in 1975. Since then, the field of digital agriculture has grown exponentially, offering new ways to predict and manage pest pressures in cropping systems.
“Many processes in crop systems are affected by the weather, such as when flowers bloom and when pests are active,” Dr. Crowder noted in his seminar description. “Over the past 50 years, the field of ‘digital agriculture’ has expanded exponentially.”
In addition to reflecting on the past half-century of progress, Dr. Crowder shared findings from his own research in the western United States. His work emphasizes collaboration—linking scientists with farmers, extension agents, and agricultural industries to improve pest management strategies at scale.
The event highlighted how combining data, technology, and ecological insights can lead to more sustainable agricultural practices—continuing the legacy of John Pesek’s commitment to innovation in sustainable agriculture.
For more on upcoming PPEM seminars and events, visit the Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology website.