By Blake Jackson
New York agriculture gains a familiar face in its fight against pests. Michael Hunter, a fifth-generation farmer and longtime Cornell Cooperative Extension specialist, has been appointed field crops IPM coordinator for the New York State Integrated Pest Management Program (NYSIPM).
Hailing from Jefferson County, Hunters agricultural roots run deep. He grew up on his familys dairy farm and dedicated his career to supporting the states agricultural industry. For 25 years, he served as a field crops specialist with Cornell Cooperative Extensions North Country Regional Ag Team. In this role, he provided research-based recommendations and resources to farmers, consultants, and agribusinesses. His focus was on improving crop production efficiency through higher yields, better quality, reduced costs, and the adoption of new technologies.
Mike has consistently been a reliable partner, resource, and friend to NYSIPM, said Program Director Alejandro Calixto. We are delighted to welcome him officially to the team. We look forward to collaborating with him to ensure New York farmers have the tools they need to develop safe and sustainable pest management strategies.
Hunter holds a bachelors degree in animal science from SUNY Cobleskill and a masters degree in agronomy from Iowa State University. In his new role, he will work with a diverse range of audiences to encourage the implementation of field crop IPM practices across New York state.
Photo Credit - gettyimages-eugenesergeev
Categories: New York, Crops, Education