Discussion Groups

In addition to oral and poster presentations, discussion groups will provide another very important avenue for information exchange, and discussion of new weed targets, management strategies, new biological/ecological concepts, etc. Where possible, we will attempt to schedule discussion groups so they immediately follow related colloquia topics presented as oral or poster presentations to further highlight interesting and provocative topics.

Below is a list of discussion topics provided by participants thus far. This is a last call for any further suggestions for discussion topics. Please contact Anthony Caesar, caesara@sidney.ars.usda.gov, regarding additional topics for discussion and to express a willingness to serve as a discussion group moderator.

1.	Issues in host range testing, including quarantine management
2.	Biological control of Russian knapweed
3.	Pre-release assessment of agent impact
4.	Acquisition of funding for biocontrol of weed research
5.	Biocontrol of parasitic weeds
6.	Biological control for vegetation management in forestry
7.	Formulation of microbial biocontrol agents of weeds
8.	Integration of pathogens and insects: goals and strategies for the next decade
9.	Potential of indigenous agents for weed biocontrol
10.	Nontarget effects in weed biocontrol
11.	Organizing and supporting follow-up studies
12.	Integration of biological control with other control options
13.	Biological control of cruciferous weeds