November 8, 2002
Commercial Pesticide Applicator Recertification Opportunities
Commercial pesticide applicators must attend one continuing instructional course each calendar year in order to maintain their certification without testing. Please see the following programs for more information or call Extension Entomology, 515-294-1101.
Praying Mantis Abundant in Southern Iowa, 2002
The praying mantis is an easy insect to recognize. They have a long narrow body that is stretched in the middle where the legs attach. They have a small triangular head with two large compound eyes. But most of all, they have those impressive, oversized front legs held upright in front of the face.
Deicing Compounds and the Home Landscape
Snow and ice are headaches for motorists and pedestrians. To promote public safety, deicing compounds are used to melt ice and snow on sidewalks, driveways, and highways. While deicing materials are necessary for safe winter travel, they can damage automobiles, concrete surfaces, and landscape plants.
Most deicing materials are salts that melt ice by lowering the freezing point of water below 32 F. However, a few other materials can be used on icy and snowy surfaces. Advantages and disadvantages of several commonly used deicing agents are discussed below.