The Virginia Pest Management Guide (PMG) series lists options for management of major pests: diseases, insects, nematodes, and weeds. These guides are produced by Virginia Cooperative Extension and each guide is revised annually. PMG recommendations are based on research conducted by the Research and Extension Division of Virginia Tech, in cooperation with other land-grant universities, the USDA, and the pest management industry.

This project will be used to disseminate current thoughts and understand the invasive species of Asian Longhorned Tick (ALT) and the spread of Theileria. The Asian Longhorned Tick is a new invasive species that was first found in the US in 2017 and has since spread to 19 states from the Atlantic Coast to the Southeastern region of the US. The ALT is credited with the widespread of Theileria. Theileria is a blood protozoa parasite that has had a negative impact on cattle producers across the state. This article is what we currently understand about the ALT and the spread of Theileria.

Spiders play a critical ecological role as natural predators that help regulate insect populations in homes, gardens, and ecosystems worldwide. Although often feared, the vast majority of spider species are harmless to humans and offer measurable benefits, consuming an estimated 400–800 million metric tons of prey annually. This publication clarifies common misconceptions about spiders, explains how to distinguish them from insects, outlines major web‑building and hunting spider groups, and highlights their widespread presence in nearly every terrestrial environment. Only two spider groups in North America—widow spiders (Latrodectus spp.) and recluse spiders (Loxosceles spp.)—pose significant medical risk, and simple precautions can minimize encounters. The guide emphasizes the ecological and agricultural value of spiders, particularly their role in integrated pest management (IPM) as generalist predators that naturally reduce pest insect pressure. By fostering understanding of spider biology, identification, and behavior, this publication encourages coexistence and appreciation of these beneficial arthropods.

HPAI Transmission in Cattle is an emergent disease that is making its way through the Bovine population. This webinar can be used to answer frequently asked questions, to identify what we currently know about the disease, and the steps to take to limit the spread of the disease.