MyIPM, a mobile app for field crop pest management

One of the cornerstones of successful implementation of an integrated pest management plan is for growers and agricultural consultants to be equipped with all available information when finding a pest in the field. Having access to this information in an accessible format has the potential to save growers time and allow them to make informed holistic decisions. While this information can often be found on university web pages and through interaction with specialists and extension personnel, a streamlined repository that is easy to access anywhere could significantly improve a grower’s ability to make management decisions. In collaboration with field crop specialists at universities throughout the southeastern U.S. and the Southern IPM Center, a mobile app is being developed to provide this on-site pest management information for growers. The “MyIPM for field crops” app will provide information on identification, life cycle, chemical control, and non-chemical control options for major pests of corn, cotton, sorghum, soybeans, and peanut. The app will be updated each year and will provide regional management information to promote the adoption of integrated pest management for field crops throughout the southeastern U.S.