Welcome New RFCs

IR-4 is looking a bit different these days with two new Regional Field Coordinators.

The North Central Region…
has appointed Dr. Anthony (Tony) VanWoerkom to replace Satoru Miyazaki.

When asked to provide a little information about himself, Tony wrote,

”For the past ten years I have been a fruit entomologist with Michigan State University, where I received my Bachelors, Masters, and Ph.D. in Entomology. I began my IR-4 experiences in 2011 as a technician, working with the field data notebooks and field work while conducting efficacy work and finishing my master’s degree. In 2014 I gained the position of Field Research Director, continued efficacy work, and began my Ph.D. program. In 2016 I became a proud father while attempting to write my Ph.D. dissertation (I did it!). My Ph.D. was directly related to IR-4 as I studied the Management of Pesticide Residue Levels for Michigan Apples and Cherries to meet global Maximum Residue Levels. I am very honored and excited to begin my new position as the Regional Field Coordinator for the NCR and also have baby #2 on the way (it’s a boy)! I am building up a lot of energy for the excitement coming.

When I am not working, I love to collect and identify insects and wildlife with my wife Rachel and 2 year old daughter Charlotte. I am also a fisherman and love to play hockey and basketball. I grew up along the Lake Michigan shore in Holland so I also try to get back to my favorite place at the beach.”

You can reach Tony at vanwoer3@anr.msu.edu, 517- 336-4611 (MSU) or 269-561-5040 (Trevor)

Southern Region Field Coordinator
Working with the interim SOR RFC, Roger Batts, the Southern Region will be transitioning Dr. Janine Spies to the position and expect her to take the reigns in the fall.

Janine comes from the University of Florida where she received her Ph.D. in Entomology and has since been a Postdoctoral Researcher working for Dr. Oscar Liburd.
During her time at UF, she evaluated integrated pest management strategies in fruit and vegetable production, with a focus on organic agriculture. Janine has spent many years getting to know specialty crop stakeholders in the southern region and is excited to continue her contributions to pest management. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, being outdoors with her husband and dog, and collecting insects.

You can reach Janine at jrazze@ufl.edu and 352-294-399.