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MS Thesis Defense - Environmental Science and Policy

Mar 27, 2026, 9:00 - 11:00 AM

Zoom - please register here: https://tinyurl.com/kvct73ya

MS Thesis
Department of Environmental Science and Policy
College of Science
George Mason University

 

Candidate: Kyle Spatz
Defense Date and Time: March 27, 2026 at 9:00am
Defense Location: Zoom (registration required)
Title: Integrating Predictive Modeling and Stakeholder Perspectives to Advance Pesticide Risk Mitigation for Beneficial and Endangered Species

Dissertation Director: Dr. Younsung Kim
Committee: Dr. Scott Glaberman, Dr. Jennifer Salerno

 

ABSTRACT

 

This research examines how pesticides affect non-target insect species in agriculture, particularly beneficial insects such as pollinators and natural predators that provide essential ecosystem services. Using a California agroecosystem case study, it analyzes common pests, beneficial species, and widely used insecticides, highlighting the broad-spectrum impacts of these chemicals. It also assesses the EPA’s Final Insecticide Strategy (2025) to consider how these tools could support regulatory implementation and stakeholder engagement. In doing so, this thesis integrates predictive toxicology, regulatory science, and collaborative governance to improve pesticide risk mitigation.

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