Russ Groves

Russ Groves is a Vegetable Extension Specialist and Applied Insect Ecologist in the Department of Entomology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He leads research and extension programs focused on integrated pest management (IPM) for vegetable crops, particularly addressing insect pests like the Colorado potato beetle and their interactions with plant diseases. His work emphasizes sustainable solutions, combining field research with stakeholder collaboration. Groves holds a PhD in Entomology from North Carolina State University (2001) and has held roles such as Co-State Liaison for the IR-4 Project and Faculty Co-Director of the Center for Integrated Agricultural Systems.

• Affiliations: Inter-Regional Research Project 4 (IR-4), Wisconsin Eco-Potato Collaboration, Center for Integrated Agricultural Systems
• Education: PhD Entomology (NCSU, 2001), MS Entomology (University of Arkansas, 1992), BS Forestry (Iowa State, 1989)

His research spans crop pest biology, resistance management, and pollinator conservation. Key findings include the impact of crop diversity on pest prevalence and the role of fungicides in driving insecticide resistance. Groves has received multiple awards for his contributions to agricultural research and extension, including the 2016 University of Arkansas Distinguished Alumnus Award and the 2017 Wisconsin Seed Potato Industry Leadership Award.

Recent grants and collaborations involve evaluating novel biopesticides, optimizing insecticide application strategies, and studying pest population dynamics across landscapes. His lab works closely with growers, county agents, and industry partners to translate science into actionable practices.