Pesticides help control damaging crop pests, but may harm pollinators and other beneficial insects. In pumpkins and other cucurbits, pollinators are essential for fruit production. This study is part of a tri-state effort to investigate trade-offs between pest control and pollinator health in cucurbits. In Ohio, we are collecting 
data on pests and pollinators on pumpkin farms that are managed in a variety of ways. We aim to develop best management practices that control important pests, like cucumber beetles, protect pollinators from pesticides, especially neonicitinoids, improve yields and minimize costs.
May 2017 – We are recruiting growers to participate in the study.
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