Madison, WI — September 25th, 2025
The IPM Institute’s Sustainable Food Group has received a grant from the Walmart Foundation to conduct a comprehensive landscape analysis to help accelerate the adoption of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices in key U.S. row crop systems. The project will assess the current state of IPM adoption and map networks of trusted advisors to identify key opportunities to reduce reliance on pesticides and improve environmental health.
The initiative will map how farmers make pest management decisions and examine the influence of the university extension agents, crop consultants, agronomists, and agricultural retailers they rely on for guidance. By understanding these networks and the incentives that shape them, the project will provide insight into the best opportunities to expand sustainable practices across agricultural regions.
“The transition to lower-risk, environmentally sound pest management is essential for building a more resilient food system,” said Christopher Stevenson, Executive Director of IPM Institute. “This grant helps us better understand farmer decision-making and pinpoint practical steps that protect ecosystems while strengthening farm businesses.”
Despite proven environmental and economic benefits, IPM adoption in row crops has lagged behind fruits and vegetables. In 2025, corn, soybean and wheat will be planted on over 220 million acres in the United States. A modest increase in IPM practices presents a vast opportunity to reduce pesticide use and risks to farm workers, the environment, and consumers.
“We know that trusted advisors play a key role in shaping the decisions farmers make,” said Ariel Larson, Department Director of the Sustainable Food Group at IPM Institute. “By uncovering where the barriers and opportunities lie, this research will generate practical recommendations to engage advisors and farmers to advance adoption of practices that reduce risk and build resilience.”
Findings will be published in a white paper offering strategic recommendations for future engagement, investment and collaboration. The report will highlight key advisory networks, opportunities to align financial and business incentives, and pathways for scaling sustainable pest management across U.S. agriculture.
To learn more about the project or connect with IPM Institute, visit ipminstitute.org.
About Walmart Foundation
Walmart.org represents the philanthropic efforts of Walmart and the Walmart Foundation. The Walmart.org team works to tackle key social and environmental issues relevant for the retail sector in collaboration with others to spark long-lasting systemic change and help people live better in the communities we serve.
To learn more, visit the Walmart Foundation website.
About the IPM Institute
Founded in 1998, IPM Institute is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving sustainability in agriculture and communities. Through collaborative partnerships and science-based strategies, IPM Institute advances practices that reduce risks to human health and the environment while supporting biodiversity, climate resilience, water quality and soil health. The Institute’s work spans integrated pest management, sustainable and regenerative agriculture and other key sustainability challenges across the food system.
