Title

A multistate effort to combat the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

Relevance

{"ops":[{"attributes":{"color":"#000000"},"insert":"The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB), an invasive pest first detected in the U.S. in 1996, rapidly spread and caused severe economic losses to apple growers and other agricultural industries. By 2010, BMSB infestations had cost apple growers over $37 million in yield losses, prompting the formation of a Rapid Response Team. As the pest spread across the eastern U.S., a nationwide collaborative effort was initiated through a Hatch Multistate Project to address the growing threat. The BMSB’s ability to damage crops and invade homes has made it a significant issue for farmers, homeowners, and businesses alike, requiring coordinated research and effective pest management strategies."},{"insert":"\n"}]}

Response

{"ops":[{"attributes":{"color":"#000000"},"insert":"In response to the BMSB outbreak, researchers, led by Virginia Tech Professor Tom Kuhar, launched a decade-long Hatch Multistate Project focused on developing and sharing innovative pest management strategies. The project involved monitoring BMSB populations nationwide, researching natural predator control, and testing various management practices to minimize economic losses. Kuhar’s research, backed by over $5 million in federal funding and additional state and commercial support, also led to the development of border-spraying practices and collaborative work with builders to design homes that prevent BMSB infestations. Additionally, Kuhar participated in international efforts to stop the spread of BMSB, including creating a fumigation alternative to protect luxury vehicles shipped to Australia."},{"insert":"\n"}]}

Results

{"ops":[{"attributes":{"color":"#000000"},"insert":"The project has successfully reduced BMSB-related economic impacts, with growers benefiting from more effective pest management techniques such as border spraying and better crop protection strategies. Dr. Kuhar’s work has led to the development of cost-effective solutions for homeowners and builders to prevent BMSB infestations. Furthermore, the project has contributed to global pest management efforts, including the protection of Australian exports from BMSB. The initiative has produced hundreds of peer-reviewed publications and played a key role in transitioning seven students into industry roles, applying the collaborative and research skills they gained through the project."},{"insert":"\n"}]}

Public Value Statement

{"ops":[{"attributes":{"color":"#000000"},"insert":"This ongoing research addresses a significant agricultural and environmental challenge, providing economic relief to U.S. growers and industry stakeholders by reducing crop damage and improving pest control strategies. The project also benefits homeowners by offering practical solutions for pest prevention. Its broader public value lies in its contributions to sustainable agricultural practices, the protection of global trade, and the training of the next generation of pest management experts. With its continued focus on effective BMSB management, this work promises to generate long-term impacts for both U.S. agriculture and international trade, while also safeguarding local economies and communities from the destructive effects of invasive pests."},{"insert":"\n"}]}

Primary Focus Area

Agricultural Systems

Secondary Focus Area

Agricultural Systems

Impact Statement