1980 Folwell Avenue
St Paul, MN 55108
United States
PhD University of Maryland 1985
Review Panels: USDA NIFA, SARE, pollinator partnership, NE IPM center, FFA (Foundation Food and Agricultural Research), Oak Ridge Labs Ralph E Powe Jr Faculty Awards
Areas of Interest
IPM, biocontrol nursery, greenhouse, conservation pollinators and beneficial insects
Biography
My research promotes sustainable management using biorational insecticides and by releasing biocontrol agents of pests to reduce reliance on pesticides that have potential non-target impacts on beneficial insects and pollinators. I develop site and pest specific IPM (Integrated Pest Management) programs for the MN green industry, which includes commodity groups (landscapes, turf, greenhouse, nursery, and Christmas trees), Master Gardeners, extension educators, and the general public. I offer in-person and online workshops in pesticide safety training and IPM.
Each year, I speak in 4 MNLA/ MDA pesticide safety /UM Pesticide Safety workshops associated with the annual meetings of three commodity groups: the MN Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA) in January at the Northern Green Expo (3,600 attendees), the MN Shade Tree Short Course (STSC) in March (300 attendees), the MN Christmas Tree Association (MTCA) in March (80 attendees), and the MN Golf Course Superintendents (MNGSA) meeting in November (120 attendees). Each March since 1998 in-person and since 2020 online, I give a 2dy certification workshop with MNLA and MDA that I created. I moderate and gave all the talks for 12hr on two days for around 100 attendees .Yearly I provide around 36 extension related talks to commodity groups, Master Gardeners, state agencies, city government, and consumers. Also, I created and maintain 2 websites, 3 online extension courses, and a 300 page online IPM manual. Each year I create a field programs with parks, Master Gardeners, extension educators, and consumers on IPM and beneficial insect conservation.
From 2023 to 2026, I was chair of the USDA NCER 224 working group on IPM of ornamentals and turf, for which I am a member for 30 years. Also, I am a member of USDA S1070 The Working Group on Improving Microbial Control of Arthropod Pests.
Teaching
- ENT 4015 Ornamental and Turf Entomology, from 2000 to 2014
- ENT 5009/previously HORT 5009, Pesticides, from 2005 to 2014
Yearly Extension/outreach teaching
- January, with MNLA, MGSA Green Expo for the MN Horticultural industry
- March, with MN Christmas tree association winter meeting
- March, with MDA, MNLA Biocontrol and insecticide compatibility in nursery and greenhouse workshop
- March, April, with MNLA Two to three Online and in-person workshop on learning technical information to pass the MN pesticide license exam in categories A and E
- July, with MDA, Christmas tree association summer meeting
- November, with MDA, MNLA recertification workshop for categories A and E
- Every month talks to state agencies, state and national commodity workshops, master gardeners, garden clubs, bee or garden related NGO
Research
My research promotes sustainable management using biorational insecticides and by releasing biocontrol agents of pests to reduce reliance on pesticides that have potential non-target impacts on beneficial insects and pollinators. The 2021-2024 LCCMR grant and 2023 USDA IPM Specialty Crop Grant supports research on biocontrol of invasive Japanese beetles (JB) with an obligate native soil inhabiting pathogen that manages JB in the East, but spreads slowly and needs to be released in MN. Also, we are performing research on the benefits of using newly EPA registered biorational insecticides for JB grubs and adults to conserve beneficial insects.
A second research project is concerned with the sub-lethal insecticide doses on behavior and survival of monarch and painted lady butterflies and Bombus impatiens. Cumulative, chronic sub-lethal insecticidal doses were shown to kill butterflies below the acute LC50 and within the range of field residue on wildflowers near agricultural fields.
A third research project (LCCMR 2024) is working with EPA and USDA IR4 to register pesticides to conserve jumping worms and to devote IPM practices for managing jumping worms.
UMN Technology Commercialization office (Ms. Rayla Vilar) spoke with me on Aug 18 and Aug 25 about further commercialization of JB biocontrol and its pathogen for consumer sales. I submitted a grant to Proctor and Gamble on this research.
Outreach
Each year, I talks in 4 MNLA/ MDA pesticide safety /UM Pesticide Safety workshops associated with the annual meetings of three commodity: MN Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA) in January at the Northern Green Expo (3,600 attendees), in March at the Shade Tree Short Course (STSC) (300 attendees), in March at the MN Christmas Tree Association meeting (80), and in November at the Golf Course Superintendents (MNGSA) meeting (120 attendees). Each March since 1998, I give a 2 day certification workshop that I created. I organized, moderated, and gave all the talks in a MNLA, MDA, UM pesticide certification workshops, for 12 hr on two days for 100 attendees. In 2023 I gave 36 extension related talks to commodity groups, Master Gardeners, state agencies, city government, and consumers. Also, I perform media interviews for newspapers, radio, and television on insect related topics.
Each March since 1998, I give a two day workshops on pesticide certification in cooperation with MNLA, MDA, and UM Pesticide Safety that I created. I organized, moderated, and gave all the talks for 12 hours on two days for around100 attendees. However, in 2020 due to covid and issues in meeting in person, I made the pesticide certification workshop online. The course is online at my website at https://pesticidecert.cfans.umn.edu/mn-turf-and-ornamental-e-license-manual. The course contains all educational materials for learning the information need to pass the MDA Professional Pesticide Certification test for a MN license in category A (general pesticide use) and E (ornamentals and greenhouses). The online course has power points, videos, quizzes, and study materials that I created. Also, it is posted at the MNLA website which is the online portal where the course is given.
I posted an online course from an in-person workshop called “IPM and Biocontrol in Greenhouse” at my IPM Professional website https://pesticidecert.cfans.umn.edu/classes-workshops/greenhouse-ipm-online-workshop-certification-commodity-group-educational-credit. The online course was put into canvas (https://canvas.umn.edu/courses/376102 and is available at the UM Professional Development portal (https://online.umn.edu/professional-development-online-courses) as an online course for professionals in landscapes and greenhouse IPM.
I organized a citizen science type program with 40 Minneapolis residents with Japanese beetle issues. On the Pollinator IPM website, there is an online extension course (https://ncipmhort.cfans.umn.edu/consumer-lawns-infested-grubs) with a video, two extension bulletins, a pre- and post- educational event survey and a background survey
I started to create a second online course on “Landscape, Greenhouse, and Turf IPM” that is presently posted my IPM Professional Development website at https://pesticidecert.cfans.umn.edu/classes-workshops/ornamentals-turf-entomology/ornamentals-and-turf-entomology I plan to make videos of all power points and place the online course in canvas and at the UM Professional Development website as in online course 2 above
The online IPM manual’s web page was updated and put into the digital conservatory as requested by UMN extension. I will work with NCERA 224, as chair, on updating the 2004 online IPM manual https://pesticidecert.cfans.umn.edu/ipm-midwest-landscapes-navigate-hit-back-button-do-not-hit-x-top .
Select Publications
Research Papers
Prouty Cody, Paola Barriga, Andrew K. Davis, Vera Krischik, and Sonia Altizer. 2021. Host plant species mediates impact of neonicotinoid exposure to monarch butterflies. Insects 2021, 12, 999. https://doi.org/10.3390/ insects12110999
Krischik Vera, 2021 submitted. Field insecticide residues, acute and chronic bioassays with bumblebee, honeybees, monarch, and painted lady butterfly, Vera Krischik, Matt Lagus, Temo Balaxashvili, Nick Partington, submitted, in revision
Cody Prouty, Lewis Bartlett, Vera Krischik, and Sonia Altizer. Adult monarch butterflies show high tolerance to neonicotinoid. 2021 in MS.
Peer Reviewed Publications
1. Krischik Vera, 2021 submitted. Field insecticide residues, acute and chronic bioassays with bumblebee, honeybees, monarch, and painted lady butterfly, Vera Krischik, Matt Lagus, Temo Balaxashvili, Nick Partington, submitted, in revision
2. Prouty Cody, Paola Barriga, Andrew K. Davis, Vera Krischik, and Sonia Altizer. 2021. Host plant species mediates impact of neonicotinoid exposure to monarch butterflies. Insects 2021, 12, 999. https://doi.org/10.3390/ insects12110999
3. Krischik, V, MR Zbinden, CC Reed. Conservation of beneficial insects with native compared to bedding plants. Submitted Sustainable Cites; reorganizing with new data to submit to Hort. Sciences
4. Griffin, JJ, WR Jacobi, and ….VKrischik. 2017. Ten year performance of elms at the National Elm Trials, Arboriculture and urban forestry J Arboriculure 43(3): May 2017
5. Krischik V, M Rogers, G Gupta, AVarshney. 2015. Soil-applied imidacloprid is translocated to ornamental flowers and reduces survival of adult Coleomegilla maculata, Harmonia axyridis, and Hippodamia convergens lady beetles, and larval Danaus plexippus and Vanessa cardui, PLoS ONE March 23, 2015, DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0119133
6. Scholer J and V Krischik. 2014. Chronic exposure of imidacloprid and clothianidin reduce queen survival, foraging, and nectar storing in colonies of Bombus impatiens. PLoS ONE 93): e91573. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0091573
7. Tenczar, E and V Krischik. 2007. Comparison of standard granular and drench) and novel tablet, stick soak, root dip) imidacloprid treatments for cottonwood leaf beetle management on hybrid poplar J. Econ. Entomol. 100: 1611-1621.
8. Krischik, V, A Landmark, G Heimpel. 2007. Soil-applied imidacloprid is translocated to nectar and kills nectar-feeding Anagyrus pseudococci Girault) Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) J. Environ. Entomol. 365): 1238-1245.
9. Tenczar, E and V Krischik. 2007. Effects of ninebark phytochemistry on Calligrapha spiraea Say) Coleoptera:Chrysomelidae). Hort Sci. 426): 1396–1399.
10. Rogers, ML Martin, and V Krischik. 2007. Effects of soil application of imidacloprid on survivorship of adult green lacewing, Chrysoperla carnea Neuroptera: Chrysopidae), used for biological control. Biological Control 42: 172-177.
11. Gupta, G and V Krischik. 2007. Professional and consumer insecticides for the management of adult Japanese beetle. J. Econ. Entomol. 100: 830-839.
12. Robbins, PS, V.Krischik, and 12 others. 2006. Trapping Phyllophaga spp. Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae) using sex attractants. J. Insect Science 639):1-124.
13. Tenczar, E and V Krischik. 2006. Management of cottonwood leaf beetle, Chysomela scripta Coleoptera:Chrysomelidae) with a novel transplant soak and biorational insecticides to conserve coccinellid beetles. J. Econo. Entomol.991):102-108.
14. Smith, SF and VA Krischik. 2000. Effects of biorational pesticides on four coccinellid species Coleoptera: Coccinellidae). J.Econ. Entomol. 933):732-736.
15. Smith, SF and VA Krischik. 1999. Effects of systemic imidacloprid on Coleomegilla maculata. Coleoptera: Coccinellidae). Environ.Entomol. 286):1180-1195.
16. Findlay, S, M Carreiro, VA Krischik, and CG Jones. 1996. Leaf damage affects leaf litter quality. Ecological Applications 61): 269-275
17. Jones, CG , RF Hopper, JS Coleman, and VA Krischik. 1993. Plant vascular architecture controls the distribution of a systemically induced defense. Oecologia 93: 452-456.
18. Coleman, JS, CG Jones, and VA Krischik. 1992. Phytocentric and exploiter perspective on phytopathology. Advances in Plant Pathology 8: 149-195.
19. Krischik, VA, R Goth and P Barbosa. 1991. Generalized plant defense: Effects on multiple species. Oecologia 85: 562-571.
20. Mueller, D, L Pierce, H Benet, and VA Krischik. 1991. The practical application of pheromone traps in the food and tobacco industry. Journal of the Kansas Entomological Soc. 63: 548-553.
21. Krischik, VA and RF Denno. 1990. Patterns of growth, reproduction, defense and herbivory in the dioecious shrub Baccharis halimifolia (Compositae). Oecologia 83: 182-190.
22. Krischik, VA and RF Denno. 1990. Differences in environmental response of the sexes of the dioecious shrub Baccharis halimifolia (Compositae). Oecologia 83: 176-181.
23. Barbosa, P and VA Krischik. 1989. Correlated life history traits in some flightless female Lepidoptera of Eastern forests. Amer. Midland Natur. 122: 262-274.
24. Tallamy, DW and VA Krischik. 1988. Insect-plant interactions or reactions? Evidence from the Cucurbit System. Amer. Natur. 133: 766-786.
25. Krischik, VA, E McCloud, and J Davidson. 1988. Selection by vertebrate frugivores of green cecidomyiid-infested hollyberries (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae). Amer. Midland Natur. 121: 354-358.
26. Krischik, VA, P Barbosa, and CF Reichelderfer. 1988. Three trophic level interactions: The effects of dietary nicotine on a herbivore and an entomogenous bacterium. Environ. Entomol. 17: 476-482.
27. Goth, R, VA Krischik, and P Barbosa. 1987. Interactions among plant allelochemicals, plant pathogens, and insect herbivores. Phytopath. 77: 986.
28. Barbosa, P and VA Krischik. 1987. The influence of alkaloids on feeding preference and suitability of forest trees to the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (Lymantridae). Amer. Natur. 130: 53-69.
29. Krischik, VA and PG Weber. 1974. Induced parental care in male cichild fish. Developmental Psychobiology 8: 1-11.
Books
Krischik, V and J Davidson. 2004. IPM of Midwest landscapes. MN Agr. Exp Station, 316 pp
Krischik, V. and D. Galliart. 1991. Grain Insect Pest Management, USDA AMS, 145 pp.
2021- 2017 Recent extension bulletins
2021 Japanese Beetle Management, Dr. Vera Krischik, Entomology Extension Specialist, University of Minnesota and Doree Maser, MDA.
2021 Managing Turf Insects in Turf and Bee Lawns. Dr. Vera Krischik, Entomology Extension Specialist, University of Minnesota.
2020 Guide to Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Dr. Vera Krischik Entomology Extension Specialist, University of Minnesota and Laurie Schneider
2020 Conservation Guide: Pollinators, Plants, Pesticides, Dr. Vera Krischik, Entomology Extension Specialist, University of Minnesota and Laurie Schneider and Emily Tenczar,
2020 Understanding Pesticide Toxicity to Pollinators, Dr. Vera Krischik, Entomology Extension Specialist, University of Minnesota.
2020 Best Practices for Pollinators: Conserving Biodiversity in Open Spaces, Dr. Vera Krischik, Entomology Extension Specialist, University of Minnesota.
2020 Backyard Best Practices for Pollinators, Dr. Vera Krischik, Entomology Extension Specialist, University of Minnesota.
2020 Butterfly Gardening, Dr. Vera Krischik, Entomology Extension Specialist, University of Minnesota and Laurie Schneider.
2020 Pollinator Lawn IPM how-to instructions, Dr. Vera Krischik, Entomology Extension Specialist, University of Minnesota and Laurie Schneider.
2020 Conserving the Rusty Patched Bumble Bee, Dr. Vera Krischik Entomology Extension Specialist, University of Minnesota.
2000 Native Plants for Sustainable Landscapes: establishment and management of lakeshores and gardens, Dr. Vera Krischik, Entomology Extension Specialist, University of Minnesota, Catherine Reed, Serena Wiley.
2000 Native Shoreline Vegetation Poster, Dr. Vera Krischik, Entomology Extension Specialist, University of Minnesota.
2020 THINK IPM color poster, Dr. Vera Krischik, Entomology Extension Specialist, University of Minnesota and Laurie Schneider.
2017 Save the Bees Plant Flowers and Trees poster, Dr. Vera Krischik, Entomology Extension Specialist, University of Minnesota.
Select Extension Publications
Krischik, Vera A. 2015. Using degree days, IRA numbers, and new online bulletins. Minnesota Christmas Tree Growers March.
Krischik, Vera A. 2015. Leatherjackets and mole crickets in turf. Hole Notes Magazine, MN Golf Course Superintendents Association
Krischik, Vera A. 2014. Protecting bees and beneficial insects from systemic insecticides applied in landscapes bulletin.
Krischik, Vera A. 2014. New turf insecticides and IRAC classifications bulletin.
Krischik, Vera A. and E. Tenczar. 2014. Pollinator conservation bulletin.
Krischik, Vera A. 2014. Insecticides used in greenhouse and landscapes and toxicity to pollinators bulletin
Krischik, Vera A. and E. Tenczar. 2014. Save the Bees poster (2.5 M PDF)
Krischik, Vera. 2013. Butterfly Gardening
Krischik Vera and Doree Maser. 2011. UM MDA Japanese Beetle Management in Minnesota
Krischik, Vera. 2010. Restoring shoreland with native vegetation poster.
Krischik Vera, Catherine C. Reed, and Serena E. Willey 2005. Native Plants for Sustainable Landscapes
Krischik Vera and Kathryn J. Bevacqua. 2005. Sustainability in Urban Ecosystems
Krischik Vera and Jeffrey D. Hahn. 2003. Insecticide Suggestions to Manage Landscape Tree and Shrub Insects
Krischik Vera and Mark E. Ascerno. 2000. Managing Lawn and Turf Insects
Hahn Jeff, Vera A. Krischik, and Steven J. Seybold. 2000. Forest Tent Caterpillars in Minnesota
Kyhl John, Mary H. Meyer, and Vera A. Krischik 1998. Establishing and Maintaining a Prairie Garden
Wawrzynski Robert, Vera A. Krischik, and Steve Katovich. 1997. The Bronze Birch Borer and Its Management
Krischik Vera, Kathryn J. Bevacqua, and Anne Hanchek. 1997. Selecting Hardy Roses for Northern Climates
Stroom Kevin, Jody Fetzer, and Vera A. Krischik. 1997. Insect Pests of Roses
Vera A. Krischik, Raymond M. Newman, and John F. Kyhl. 1997. Managing Aquatic Plants in Minnesota Lakes
Honors and Awards
USDA NCERA chair 2023 to 2026
Students Advised
Postdocs
- 2022-2023 Dr. Carrie Deans
- 2018-2019 Dr. Rebeca Guiteres Morano, current job Pollinator Coordinator with MN Board of Soils and Water
- 2007-2008 Dr. Garima Gupta, current job, researcher, Department of Zoology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
MAST students
- 2017-2019 Temo Balaxashvili, European Georgia
- 2017-2018 George Kostakis, Greece
- 2010 Silas Martins and 2 others, Brazil
- 2008 Craig Corbett, South African
M.S.
- Jameson Scholer, 2013
- Mary Rogers, 2008
- Emily Tenczar, 2007
- Emory Matts, 2005
- Scott Smith, 2000
- Luis Martin, MAG 2005, co-advisor for research
- Alyson Landmark, MAG 2000, co-advisor for research
- Barb Gregerson, MAG 1999, co-advisor for research
- Marcus Zbinden, MLS 1997, co-advisor for research
UROP undergraduate students
- 2020 Meredith Pounds
- 2019 Michaela Sanford
- 2017 Elizabeth Braatz
- 2013 Tyler Obermoller
- 2012 Rafael de los Rios Bolton
- 2008 Darcy Abrams
- 2005 Emily Tenczar