The status of agricultural entomology extension in Alberta, Canada: perspectives of extension professionals and development of a map to virtual extension tools

The agricultural extension system in Alberta, Canada, has undergone significant shifts in recent decades due to a reduction of provincial government oversight. This change highlights the need to assess the effectiveness of currently available extension tools and to explore opportunities for collaboration and growth across the system. The present study employs a scientific survey targeting professionals involved in agricultural entomology extension to identify key challenges and areas for improvement. In addition, we develop a visual map of online entomology resources in Alberta to facilitate user access to information. Although traditional communication methods remain valuable, there is potential to expand the use of digital tools for entomological extension activities. Survey respondents report cost and the loss of chemical control options as the primary pest management challenges, as well as funding, access, and coordination of efforts as significant barriers to extension. Physical or cultural barriers to access extension information and limited public knowledge about insects pose additional hurdles to effective extension. The survey findings offer valuable insights into opportunities to enhance agricultural extension in Alberta, such as the adoption of standardised evaluation methods and the establishment of a centralised information hub. We provide a freely available online hub that consolidates online extension entomology resources in Alberta.