 | Central Kentucky is home to some of the world's most famous horse farms. Our research projects often involve field work on these beautiful and historic sites. |
A primary focus is research on the biology and management of insect pests of turfgrass, especially white grubs and black cutworm, including studies on mating behavior and sex attraction, phenology and behavior, microbial pathogens, susceptibility of eggs and larvae to environmental stress, damage thresholds, feeding ecology, cultural and chemical control, and side-effects of pesticides on beneficial and nontarget species.
We also study insect pests of woody landscape plants, including Japanese beetle, wood borers, scale insects, defoliators, and other pests. Research findings have helped nurserymen, landscape managers, and homeowners to manage insect pests more safely and effectively, and at lower cost.
A third emphasis is basic research on insect/plant relationships, particularly work with Japanese beetles, leafminers, and gall-makers as model systems to understand how feeding ecology, plant defense mechanisms, and environmental factors interact to affect insect dietary preferences and host plant resistance
 | Kentucky Derby & Preakness Winner Smarty Jones |
 | Claiborne Farm, site of Secretariat's grave, has been among our study sites |
 | Monument to the great racehorse Seattle Slew near one of our study sites. |
Revised: 26 September 2006