Michael Wierda

Michael Wierda is an Assistant Professor in Extension at Utah State University and serves as the Pesticide Safety Education (PSE) Program Director. Since July 30, 2018, he has focused on developing online pesticide safety training modules and manuals. His work integrates PSE into Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs and vice versa, aiming to educate the public on reducing pesticide-related health risks.

Education:

• PhD in Ecotoxicology/Wildlife Toxicology, Clemson University (2009)
• MS in Biology, Northern Michigan University (2008)
• BS in Zoology (Ornithology/Chemistry), Northern Michigan University (2001)

Research Interests: Trained as a biologist, wildlife ecologist, and toxicologist, Dr. Wierda's research spans parasitology, avian/raptor ecology, environmental toxicology, and molecular biology. He uses wildlife as bioindicators for environmental contaminants and explores how IPM principles can reduce ecological and human health risks from pesticides.

Teaching & Extension: With over 3 years of pesticide safety education experience, he has taught in lecture halls, labs, and field settings. He has also taught internationally at the University of Cape Town (2008) and at the Savannah River Environmental Science Field Station (2010–2011).

Extension Programs:

• USU Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP) – Ongoing since 2022
• Respiratory Safety/Fit Testing Initiative – Ongoing since 2019
• Utah Department of Agriculture and Food Professional Pesticide Applicator Study Materials – Ongoing since 2018