Course Description

Explore the fascinating world of spiders in this interactive and informative workshop designed for enthusiasts, naturalists, and pest management professionals. The Hands-on Spider Identification Workshop provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of spider biology, behavior, and identification techniques. Engage in hands-on activities, discussions, and practical exercises to enhance your knowledge and skills in spider identification.

Biology and Behavior of Spiders

Overview of general spider anatomy, biology, and behavior
Introduction to related arthropods, with a focus on insects

Public Health and Spiders

Understanding the relationship between spiders and public health
Exploring the misconceptions and realities associated with spiders and human health

Hands-on Identification

Identification key for "Pest" species, including Brown Recluse, Cellar spider, and Black widows
Survey and identification of specimens collected from the surrounding area
Proper storage and collection tips for preserving specimens

Hobo and Recluse Spiders – Myths and Truths

Debunking common myths about Hobo and Recluse spiders
Separating fact from fiction regarding these often misunderstood species

Key Tips on Spider Management and IPM Practices

Effective spider management strategies
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices for spider control
Practical tips for preventing and addressing spider-related issues in various environments

Join us for this engaging workshop to enhance your spider identification skills and gain valuable insights into the biology and management of these incredible arachnids. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a pest control professional, or simply curious about spiders, this workshop provides a hands-on and educational experience you won't want to miss!

Investment

Member

Non-Member

Early Bird

(Until 2/25/2025)

CEU

Space

Todd Murray

Todd Murray is the Director for Washington State University Puyallup Research and Extension Center and is also the Norman Ehmann Endowed Professor in Urban Pest Management. Mr. Murray holds an MSc degree in Entomology from WSU and had over 25 years of experience in developing outreach and Extension programs for invasive pests significant to Pacific Northwest.

Todd is engaged with the Entomological Society of America’s certification program and other regional Urban IPM experts to help add value to Pacific Northwest urban pest management businesses, organizations and communities.

Sylvia Kenmuir, Msc, BCE

• Senior West Coast Technical Services Specialist for the Pest Specialty Solutions. Focus
  on Urban Pest Management for urban pests such as ants, termites, and commensal
  rodents Since 2019. Provides technical support and field trials on BASF solutions on the
  west coast
• Prior to BASF was the National Technical Director in Distribution for 30 years

Education
B.S., Biology- California State Polytechnic, Pomona
MSc. Entomology - University of Nebraska Lincoln

Professional Licenses
Board Certified Entomologist #3194
CA Pest Control Advisor and Applicator

Professional Affiliations
Chair of the West Coast Rodent Academy
Chair of PWIPM
Past Director for Entomological Society of America Certification Board

Amanda Klein, BCE

Amanda is a professional Entomologist and pest management educator with over 13 years of experience in training and research. She is the Technical Training Support Specialist for Target Specialty Products, where she leads continuing education programs and develops material to promote pest industry growth.

Amanda earned her degree in Entomology from Texas A&M University and she currently holds her two Board Certifications with the Entomological Society of America, certified both in General Entomology and in Urban & Industrial Entomology.

Amanda enjoys scientific field collecting, teaching, contributing to invertebrate research
(specializing in arachnid biology) and supporting fellow pest professionals.