03/23/2026
Soil animal communities are composed of a rich assemblage of decomposers, predators, and plant pests. As professor of Soil and Turfgrass Entomology at Cornell University, Professor Wickings is interested in improving our basic knowledge of soil invertebrates and applying this knowledge to help minimize damage by root-feeding pests while simultaneously preserving the biodiversity and function of soil food webs.
In his presentation, Professor Wickings will speak about the major turfgrass insect pests that can be found in urban greenspaces. He will review the potential for turfgrasses in urban greenspaces to host beneficial soil organisms and discuss the impacts of pesticides on beneficial soil organisms and their role in soil health. You will be introduced to best practices for monitoring and decision-making to effectively manage soil dwelling insects without impacting beneficial soil organisms. Lastly, you will learn the current status of invasive jumping worms, their impacts on soil and plant health, and best practices for preventing their spread in greenspaces.
