On August 21, 22 Registered Apprentices and 30 RINLA members gathered at the Horridge Botanical Center and Greenhouses at the University of Rhode Island for a Twilight meeting. This showcased the many management considerations it takes to keep the URI grounds looking beautiful and included topics related to integrated pest management (IPM). There were presentations by Dr. Bryan Maynard, professor of horticulture, and pest control demonstrations by RINLA member Chad Johnson of Greenerease and Dr. Keiddy Urrea-Morawicki, Director and Diagnostician in the URI Plant Diagnostic Laboratory. The primary topics of discussion were beech leaf disease and the spotted lanternfly. We also had the opportunity to visit Lisa Tewksbury at the URI Biocontrol Lab and hear about her research on agricultural pests and invasive insects. Finally, the grounds and the greenhouses were open for touring and were enjoyed by everyone in attendance.
