ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Join us from Oct. 19 -22, 2026 in Champaign, IL
HORTICULTURAL INSPECTION SOCIETY
CENTRAL CHAPTER
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
CENTRAL CHAPTER
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
🗓️ Event: 2026 HIS Central Chapter Annual Conference
📍 Location: Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana
217 N. Neil Street Champaign, IL 61820
🕒 Date: October 19 - 22, 2026
Conference Details
The Horticultural Inspection Society – Central Chapter and the Illinois Department of Agriculture invite you to attend the 2026 Annual Conference, taking place October 19–22 in Champaign, Illinois. This year’s conference will feature an engaging lineup of expert speakers, educational presentations, and field trips. Featured presenters include Dr. Aaron Hager of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, who specializes in weed science, herbicide resistance, and weed management in agricultural production systems; Dr. Spencer Walse of the University of California, Davis, and USDA Agricultural Research Service, whose research focuses on postharvest pest management, phytosanitary treatments, and preventing the movement of pests through agricultural trade; Dr. Trent Ford, Illinois State Climatologist, who specializes in climate variability, extreme weather, drought, and the effects of changing climate conditions on agriculture and natural resources; Chris Evans of University of Illinois Extension, who specializes in invasive species management, weed identification and control, and natural-area restoration; Dr. Esther Ngumbi of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, whose work focuses on entomology, plant–insect interactions, beneficial microbes, sustainable crop protection, and food security; and Dr. Fredric Miller of The Morton Arboretum, who specializes in arboriculture, urban forestry, and the identification and management of insect pests affecting trees and other woody plants.
Conference field trips will provide attendees with opportunities to explore several distinctive research and educational facilities in the Champaign-Urbana area. Participants will tour the University of Illinois RIPE Greenhouse, where researchers with the Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency project are working to improve crop productivity by enhancing the natural process of photosynthesis. The tour of the CABBI Greenhouse will highlight research conducted by the Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, including the development of sustainable crops and biological processes used to produce renewable fuels and other bioproducts. At the University of Illinois Energy Farm, attendees will learn about field-scale research involving bioenergy crops, agricultural production systems, soil health, sustainability, and renewable energy. The conference will also include a visit to Allerton Park and Retreat Center in Monticello, a historic estate known for its formal gardens, outdoor sculptures, woodlands, trails, natural areas, and unique combination of cultural and environmental resources.
The conference will be held October 19–22. Check-in is available on October 19 from 3:00–6:00 PM and again on the morning of the 20th from 6:30–8:00 AM. The event concludes on the 22nd following the business meeting (late morning). Hotel reservations must be made by Monday, September 21, 2026 to receive the group rate. The conference registration deadline is Wednesday, September 23, 2026. If you have concerns about meeting the conference registration deadline, please contact Andrew Mathis at [email protected].
Attendees who prefer to register by mail may complete and return the enclosed paper registration forms as soon as possible. Full conference registration is $250.00 per person and includes continental breakfast October 20–22, lunch October 20–21, and the banquet dinner on October 20.
For the conference registration fee, checks should be made payable to H.I.S. Central Chapter. If you register online, remember to include a printout of the registration with your check. If completing a paper registration, please include that as well. Please note that H.I.S. does not accept credit cards, debit cards, or cash. When mailing payment, include a printed copy of the completed registration confirmation and send it to:
DATCP – Liz Meils, H.I.S. Treasurer
2811 Agriculture Drive
Madison, WI 53718
Registration fees may also be paid by check during conference check-in. When submitting one check for multiple attendees, please include the names of all registrants on the check’s memo line. The registration deadline is Wednesday, September 23, 2026.
Registration fees help cover meeting facilities, speaker travel and lodging, meals for attendees, field-trip admission, and transportation expenses. We sincerely appreciate the continued support of State Plant Regulatory Officials and the Central and National Plant Boards. Their support allows the Horticultural Inspection Society – Central Chapter to promote high standards in plant inspection, strengthen professional relationships, encourage collaboration, and share information essential to protecting plant resources from pests and diseases.
Any questions can be emailed to [email protected].
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Hotel Accommodations/Reservations and Travel
Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana
217 N Neil St, Champaign, IL 61820
Use the link below for reservations in our meeting block. The meeting room and hospitality suite are also located in this hotel. Reservations within our block close on Monday, September 21, 2026.
Reservations will not be charged until the guest checks in.
Room fee $110.00/night
Discounted parking at $10/day in secure garage
BY PHONE:
• Call the hotel at (217) 531-2800, press “3” and then “1”.
• Let me know you’d like to make a reservation in the “Central Chapter” group/special rate code “G-HIS6”.
ONLINE (Preferred method):
Go to:
https://www.hyatt.com/shop/rooms/cmizc?location=Hyatt%20Place%20Champaign%2FUrbana&checkinDate=2026-10-19&checkoutDate=2026-10-21&rooms=1&adults=1&kids=0&corp_id=G-HIS6&accessibilityCheck=false
• At the top of the webpage, within the banner, select the word “Special Rate” and make sure you change your Check-in and Checkout date accordingly. (group/special rate code should indicate “G-HIS6".
• Select the type of room [either King Bed (with sofa bed) or King Suite depending on availability] and select “Book”.
• Enter your Contact and Payment Information. Make sure to review the booking summary. Once reviewed and ready to book, select “Book My Stay” at the bottom of the page.
Travel Information:
Champaign/Urbana is located in central Illinois and is an hour and fifteen-minute drive north from I-70 or two hour and fifteen-minute drive from I-80 or I-90 in Chicago. The closest airport is Willard Airport (CMI), which is a fifteen-minute drive from the hotel. Chicago O’Hare (ORD) or Chicago Midway (MDW) International Airports are approximately a two hour and fifteen-minute or two hour and thirty-minute drive, respectively. Additionally, Indianapolis International Airport is approximately a two-hour drive.
If flying, and need a ride to/from the hotel, coordinate with IDOA staff. Rideshare services from Willard Airport to the hotel cost anywhere between $20.00 to $30.00 during normal hours.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Tentative Agenda Revised 09/08/2026 (PDF agenda includes relevant speaker and field trip links)
Monday, October 19, 2026, Travel to the Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana, 217 N Neil St, Champaign, IL 61820
3:00 – 6:00 PM Registration (Basement)
6:00 – 8:00 PM Dinner on your own and Explore Champaign/Urbana
• Don't forget to look at pamphlet in welcome bad for restaurant options and optional activities.
8:00 – 11:00 PM Hospitality Suite
• The hospitality room is open for networking, committee meetings, and welcoming new members—bring photos to share!
Tuesday, October 20, 2026, Presentations at the Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana – Basement
6:30 – 8:00 AM Breakfast provided by hotel (1st floor) & Registration (Basement)
8:00 – 8:15 AM Welcome by Illinois Department of Agriculture Staff
8:15 – 8:30 AM Introduction of Central Chapter HIS Board and Members, Andrew Mathis, Illinois Department of Agriculture
8:30 – 9:30 AM Dr. Aaron Hager, Topic: The dicamba dilemma; returning to a soybean field near you
Professor and Faculty Extension Specialist, Crop Sciences
University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana, https://cropsciences.illinois.edu/directory/hager
9:30 – 10:30 AM Dr. Spencer Walse, Understanding Quarantine versus Commodity Fumigation Requirements
Associate Adjunct Professor, Department of Environmental Toxicology
UC Davis, https://www.etox.ucdavis.edu/people/spencer-walse
and
Commodity Protection and Quality Research
USDA ARS, https://www.ars.usda.gov/pacific-west-area/parlier/sjvasc/cpq/people/spencer-walse/
10:30 – 10:45 AM Break
10:45 – 11:00 AM State Reports: South Dakota, Ohio, and Nebraska
11:00 – 12:00 PM Chris Evans, Tackling Invasive Species in Illinois: Rules, Regulations, and Initiatives
Forestry Extension and Research Specialist
University of Illinois Extension, https://extension.illinois.edu/forestry/staff/christopher-evans
12:00 – 1:00 PM Lunch – Basement (covered by registration)
• Fried chicken, basked beans and green beans, tossed salad. Premium salad buffet for dietary restrictions. Assorted cupcakes. Beverages: tea, lemonade, and water.
1:00 – 1:15 PM State Reports: Michigan, Wisconsin, and Missouri
1:15 – 2:15 PM Dr. Trent Ford, Making Weather and Climate Information Work for Horticulture in the Midwest
Illinois State Climatologist
Illinois State Water Survey, https://stateclimatologist.isws.illinois.edu/about/
2:15 – 2:30 PM State Reports: Indiana, Iowa, and Minnesota
2:30 – 2:45 PM Break
2:45 – 3:45 PM Dr. Esther Ngumbi, Decoding the Secret Communication Language of Plants: From Chemical-Mediated Plant-Insect Interactions to Floral Whiffs
Assistant Professor, Entomology, School of Integrative Biology
University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana, https://sib.illinois.edu/directory/profile/enn
3:45 – 4:45 PM Fredric Miller, PhD, How Our Changing Climate is Affecting Plants and Their Response to Drought, Decline, and New Pest Threats
Senior Scientist, Entomology
The Morton Arboretum, https://mortonarb.org/science/staff/fredric-miller/
4:45 PM - 5:00 PM State Reports: North Dakota, Kansas, Illinois
5:00 – 6:00 PM Open Discussion - Round Table
• Includes updates from the Central Plant Board, National Plant Board, and other topics
6:00 – 8:00 PM Dinner - Basement (covered by registration)
• Smothered pork chops and oven-roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, and tossed salad. Premium salad buffet for dietary restrictions. Assorted cupcakes. Beverages: tea, lemonade, and water.
• Recognition and notes
-2025 McAdams Award Recipient, Dr. Yuhong Li (MO)
-Recently Retired Members
8:00 – 11:00 PM Hospitality Suite,
• The hospitality room is open for networking, committee meetings, and welcoming new members- bring photos to share!
Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Field Trips
6:30 – 8:00 AM Breakfast, 1st floor (provided by hotel)
8:00 – 8:15 AM Snacks and water available upon lading and unloading the bus.
8:30 – 9:30 AM Tour of University of Illinois RIPE Greenhouse
1906 South Fourth Street, Champaign, IL 61820
https://ripe.illinois.edu/
Tour of CABBI Greenhouse
Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation
1902 South Fourth Street, Champaign, IL 61820
https://cabbi.bio/about/mission-vision/
9:30 – 9:45 AM Load Bus
10:00 – 11:00 PM Tour of University of Illinois Energy Farm
4110 S. Race St. Urbana, IL 61802
https://energyfarm.illinois.edu/
11:00 – 11:15 AM Load Bus
12:00 – 1:00 PM Lunch at Allerton Park and Retreat Center
Box Lunch- Sandwiches, chips, and drinks (covered by registration)
1:00 – 1:15 PM Break and walk to Mansion to begin formal tour of Allerton Park and Retreat Center
1:15 – 4:00 PM Tour of Allerton Park and Retreat Center
515 Old Timber Road Monticello, Illinois 61856
https://allerton.illinois.edu/
4:00 – 4:15 PM Load Bus to return to hotel
6:00 – 8:00 PM Dinner on your own and explore Champaign-Urbana
Don’t forget to look at the pamphlet in your welcome bag for restaurant options and optional activities.
8:00 – 11:00 PM Hospitality Suite
• The hospitality room is open for networking, committee meetings, and welcoming new members—bring photos to share!
Thursday, October 22, 2026, Business Meeting and Travel Home
6:30 – 8:00 AM Breakfast, 1st floor (provided by hotel)
8:00 – 11:00 AM Business Meeting –Basement
• Award and Committee Nominations
• Including remarks from interstate inspection considerations and annual meeting host state (MN).
11:00 AM Meeting Adjourned
SAFE TRAVELS HOME!
If you would like to bring an exhibit and have any questions or concerns. Andrew Mathis, [email protected].
___________________________________________________________________________________________
SPEAKER TOPICS & BIOS
Dr. Aaron Hager is a professor of weed science in the Department of Crop Sciences at the University of Illinois. He has more than 33 years of weed science experience and assists agronomic crop producers manage weeds by implementing sustainable practices. The focus of Dr. Hager’s research program is to develop innovative weed management approaches with an emphasis on addressing contemporary weed species infesting corn and soybean in Illinois. His ultimate research goal is to establish a robust applied research program, supplemented with basic research fostered through novel collaborations with ecologists and molecular biology scientists, to provide economical and sustainable solutions to the fundamental weed management challenges plaguing Illinois producers. He has been at the forefront in discovery and identification of novel instances of herbicide resistance in Illinois waterhemp. Such research included the documentation of the first cases (not only in waterhemp, but in any U.S. weed population) of multiple resistance to herbicides spanning two, three, and four site-of-action groups, the world’s first discovery of resistance to HPPD-inhibiting herbicides, and the first identification of resistance to Group 15 herbicides in a broadleaf species. Dr. Hager’s knowledge of practical weed management has been shared with weed management practitioners throughout the United States and across four continents.
Chris Evans is an Extension Forestry and Research Specialist with the University of Illinois. He has over 20 years of experience working on invasive species management, forest restoration, and forest pests & diseases. Chris also serves as the vice president of the Midwest Invasive Plant Network, co-chair of the Terrestrial Plants Committee of the Illinois Invasive Species Council, and chair of the Illinois Forestry Development Council.
Dr. Trent Ford is the Illinois State Climatologist with the Prairie Research Institute at the University of Illinois. He is an expert in climate and climate change and its interactions and impacts. Trent leads climate and drought monitoring, research, and data collection for Illinois. He and his team work with communities, industries, and state agencies on issues related to weather, climate, and climate change in Illinois, and they engage the general public through online, media, and educational outreach. A native of Roanoke, Illinois, Ford earned a bachelor’s in geography from Illinois State University before completing his master’s and Ph.D. at Texas A&M University.
Dr. Esther Ngumbi is an Associate Professor of Entomology and African American Studies at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Her research investigates the multifaceted use of chemical signals by plants and plant-associating communities including insects. Her work also examines how plant breeding, abiotic stressors such as flooding, and stress combinations impact chemical signaling and multitrophic interactions. She is fascinated by plant chemistry and passionate about unmasking scent mysteries and identifying the compounds that give plants and flowers their distinctive aromas.
Dr. Fredric Miller is a Senior Scientist – Entomology at The Morton Arboretum, Lisle, Illinois and currently serves as the Illinois DNR Forest Health specialist. He received his B.S.F. in Forest Management from the University of Missouri, a M.Sc. in Forest Entomology from the University of Arkansas, and a Ph.D. in Urban Forest Entomology from Iowa State University with a minor in Plant Pathology, Dr. Miller is an active member of the Illinois Arborist Association (IAA) and serves as the Protection Committee Chair for the National Walnut Council (NWC) His applied research at the Morton Arboretum focuses on tree health for both rural and urban forests, and EAB post invasion population dynamics.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Membership Dues:
HIS membership dues for 2027 are $20.00 and must be submitted no later than December 10th. Membership dues can be submitted and included in the registration check - however, be sure to fill out a separate membership application for each individual. If check includes membership dues for multiple attendees, please include relevant names on the check memo line.
Membership Application:
https://www.cchis.org/membership.html
Send your membership application and check to:
DATCP – Liz Meils, H.I.S. Treasurer
2811 Agriculture Drive
Madison, WI 53718
Exhibit Displays
If you are interested and want to bring a display from your state, please indicate this on the registration form. An area will be available for tabletop or floor displays.
State Reports
Each state should prepare a report using the standard HIS State Report form. The report should briefly summarize significant pests, diseases, activities, trends, and changes in your state. Please bring at least one printed copy for each attending state—ideally 30 or more, so all attendees can receive one. State report presentations are limited to five minutes. If you’re unable to print your report before the conference, you may email it to Chapter Secretary John Mortenson at [email protected] for digital distribution. All reports will be posted in the Members Only section of our website (cchis.org) after the conference.
Attire
In line with the HIS–Central Chapter motto, “To make professionalism a part of every effort,” please wear professional yet comfortable attire. Check the local forecast before traveling to the conference. Wednesday’s tour will include outdoor activities, so boots and field clothing may be appropriate.
📍 Location: Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana
217 N. Neil Street Champaign, IL 61820
🕒 Date: October 19 - 22, 2026
Conference Details
The Horticultural Inspection Society – Central Chapter and the Illinois Department of Agriculture invite you to attend the 2026 Annual Conference, taking place October 19–22 in Champaign, Illinois. This year’s conference will feature an engaging lineup of expert speakers, educational presentations, and field trips. Featured presenters include Dr. Aaron Hager of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, who specializes in weed science, herbicide resistance, and weed management in agricultural production systems; Dr. Spencer Walse of the University of California, Davis, and USDA Agricultural Research Service, whose research focuses on postharvest pest management, phytosanitary treatments, and preventing the movement of pests through agricultural trade; Dr. Trent Ford, Illinois State Climatologist, who specializes in climate variability, extreme weather, drought, and the effects of changing climate conditions on agriculture and natural resources; Chris Evans of University of Illinois Extension, who specializes in invasive species management, weed identification and control, and natural-area restoration; Dr. Esther Ngumbi of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, whose work focuses on entomology, plant–insect interactions, beneficial microbes, sustainable crop protection, and food security; and Dr. Fredric Miller of The Morton Arboretum, who specializes in arboriculture, urban forestry, and the identification and management of insect pests affecting trees and other woody plants.
Conference field trips will provide attendees with opportunities to explore several distinctive research and educational facilities in the Champaign-Urbana area. Participants will tour the University of Illinois RIPE Greenhouse, where researchers with the Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency project are working to improve crop productivity by enhancing the natural process of photosynthesis. The tour of the CABBI Greenhouse will highlight research conducted by the Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation, including the development of sustainable crops and biological processes used to produce renewable fuels and other bioproducts. At the University of Illinois Energy Farm, attendees will learn about field-scale research involving bioenergy crops, agricultural production systems, soil health, sustainability, and renewable energy. The conference will also include a visit to Allerton Park and Retreat Center in Monticello, a historic estate known for its formal gardens, outdoor sculptures, woodlands, trails, natural areas, and unique combination of cultural and environmental resources.
The conference will be held October 19–22. Check-in is available on October 19 from 3:00–6:00 PM and again on the morning of the 20th from 6:30–8:00 AM. The event concludes on the 22nd following the business meeting (late morning). Hotel reservations must be made by Monday, September 21, 2026 to receive the group rate. The conference registration deadline is Wednesday, September 23, 2026. If you have concerns about meeting the conference registration deadline, please contact Andrew Mathis at [email protected].
Attendees who prefer to register by mail may complete and return the enclosed paper registration forms as soon as possible. Full conference registration is $250.00 per person and includes continental breakfast October 20–22, lunch October 20–21, and the banquet dinner on October 20.
For the conference registration fee, checks should be made payable to H.I.S. Central Chapter. If you register online, remember to include a printout of the registration with your check. If completing a paper registration, please include that as well. Please note that H.I.S. does not accept credit cards, debit cards, or cash. When mailing payment, include a printed copy of the completed registration confirmation and send it to:
DATCP – Liz Meils, H.I.S. Treasurer
2811 Agriculture Drive
Madison, WI 53718
Registration fees may also be paid by check during conference check-in. When submitting one check for multiple attendees, please include the names of all registrants on the check’s memo line. The registration deadline is Wednesday, September 23, 2026.
Registration fees help cover meeting facilities, speaker travel and lodging, meals for attendees, field-trip admission, and transportation expenses. We sincerely appreciate the continued support of State Plant Regulatory Officials and the Central and National Plant Boards. Their support allows the Horticultural Inspection Society – Central Chapter to promote high standards in plant inspection, strengthen professional relationships, encourage collaboration, and share information essential to protecting plant resources from pests and diseases.
Any questions can be emailed to [email protected].
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Hotel Accommodations/Reservations and Travel
Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana
217 N Neil St, Champaign, IL 61820
Use the link below for reservations in our meeting block. The meeting room and hospitality suite are also located in this hotel. Reservations within our block close on Monday, September 21, 2026.
Reservations will not be charged until the guest checks in.
Room fee $110.00/night
Discounted parking at $10/day in secure garage
BY PHONE:
• Call the hotel at (217) 531-2800, press “3” and then “1”.
• Let me know you’d like to make a reservation in the “Central Chapter” group/special rate code “G-HIS6”.
ONLINE (Preferred method):
Go to:
https://www.hyatt.com/shop/rooms/cmizc?location=Hyatt%20Place%20Champaign%2FUrbana&checkinDate=2026-10-19&checkoutDate=2026-10-21&rooms=1&adults=1&kids=0&corp_id=G-HIS6&accessibilityCheck=false
• At the top of the webpage, within the banner, select the word “Special Rate” and make sure you change your Check-in and Checkout date accordingly. (group/special rate code should indicate “G-HIS6".
• Select the type of room [either King Bed (with sofa bed) or King Suite depending on availability] and select “Book”.
• Enter your Contact and Payment Information. Make sure to review the booking summary. Once reviewed and ready to book, select “Book My Stay” at the bottom of the page.
Travel Information:
Champaign/Urbana is located in central Illinois and is an hour and fifteen-minute drive north from I-70 or two hour and fifteen-minute drive from I-80 or I-90 in Chicago. The closest airport is Willard Airport (CMI), which is a fifteen-minute drive from the hotel. Chicago O’Hare (ORD) or Chicago Midway (MDW) International Airports are approximately a two hour and fifteen-minute or two hour and thirty-minute drive, respectively. Additionally, Indianapolis International Airport is approximately a two-hour drive.
If flying, and need a ride to/from the hotel, coordinate with IDOA staff. Rideshare services from Willard Airport to the hotel cost anywhere between $20.00 to $30.00 during normal hours.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Tentative Agenda Revised 09/08/2026 (PDF agenda includes relevant speaker and field trip links)
Monday, October 19, 2026, Travel to the Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana, 217 N Neil St, Champaign, IL 61820
3:00 – 6:00 PM Registration (Basement)
6:00 – 8:00 PM Dinner on your own and Explore Champaign/Urbana
• Don't forget to look at pamphlet in welcome bad for restaurant options and optional activities.
8:00 – 11:00 PM Hospitality Suite
• The hospitality room is open for networking, committee meetings, and welcoming new members—bring photos to share!
Tuesday, October 20, 2026, Presentations at the Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana – Basement
6:30 – 8:00 AM Breakfast provided by hotel (1st floor) & Registration (Basement)
8:00 – 8:15 AM Welcome by Illinois Department of Agriculture Staff
8:15 – 8:30 AM Introduction of Central Chapter HIS Board and Members, Andrew Mathis, Illinois Department of Agriculture
8:30 – 9:30 AM Dr. Aaron Hager, Topic: The dicamba dilemma; returning to a soybean field near you
Professor and Faculty Extension Specialist, Crop Sciences
University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana, https://cropsciences.illinois.edu/directory/hager
9:30 – 10:30 AM Dr. Spencer Walse, Understanding Quarantine versus Commodity Fumigation Requirements
Associate Adjunct Professor, Department of Environmental Toxicology
UC Davis, https://www.etox.ucdavis.edu/people/spencer-walse
and
Commodity Protection and Quality Research
USDA ARS, https://www.ars.usda.gov/pacific-west-area/parlier/sjvasc/cpq/people/spencer-walse/
10:30 – 10:45 AM Break
10:45 – 11:00 AM State Reports: South Dakota, Ohio, and Nebraska
11:00 – 12:00 PM Chris Evans, Tackling Invasive Species in Illinois: Rules, Regulations, and Initiatives
Forestry Extension and Research Specialist
University of Illinois Extension, https://extension.illinois.edu/forestry/staff/christopher-evans
12:00 – 1:00 PM Lunch – Basement (covered by registration)
• Fried chicken, basked beans and green beans, tossed salad. Premium salad buffet for dietary restrictions. Assorted cupcakes. Beverages: tea, lemonade, and water.
1:00 – 1:15 PM State Reports: Michigan, Wisconsin, and Missouri
1:15 – 2:15 PM Dr. Trent Ford, Making Weather and Climate Information Work for Horticulture in the Midwest
Illinois State Climatologist
Illinois State Water Survey, https://stateclimatologist.isws.illinois.edu/about/
2:15 – 2:30 PM State Reports: Indiana, Iowa, and Minnesota
2:30 – 2:45 PM Break
2:45 – 3:45 PM Dr. Esther Ngumbi, Decoding the Secret Communication Language of Plants: From Chemical-Mediated Plant-Insect Interactions to Floral Whiffs
Assistant Professor, Entomology, School of Integrative Biology
University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana, https://sib.illinois.edu/directory/profile/enn
3:45 – 4:45 PM Fredric Miller, PhD, How Our Changing Climate is Affecting Plants and Their Response to Drought, Decline, and New Pest Threats
Senior Scientist, Entomology
The Morton Arboretum, https://mortonarb.org/science/staff/fredric-miller/
4:45 PM - 5:00 PM State Reports: North Dakota, Kansas, Illinois
5:00 – 6:00 PM Open Discussion - Round Table
• Includes updates from the Central Plant Board, National Plant Board, and other topics
6:00 – 8:00 PM Dinner - Basement (covered by registration)
• Smothered pork chops and oven-roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, and tossed salad. Premium salad buffet for dietary restrictions. Assorted cupcakes. Beverages: tea, lemonade, and water.
• Recognition and notes
-2025 McAdams Award Recipient, Dr. Yuhong Li (MO)
-Recently Retired Members
8:00 – 11:00 PM Hospitality Suite,
• The hospitality room is open for networking, committee meetings, and welcoming new members- bring photos to share!
Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Field Trips
6:30 – 8:00 AM Breakfast, 1st floor (provided by hotel)
8:00 – 8:15 AM Snacks and water available upon lading and unloading the bus.
8:30 – 9:30 AM Tour of University of Illinois RIPE Greenhouse
1906 South Fourth Street, Champaign, IL 61820
https://ripe.illinois.edu/
Tour of CABBI Greenhouse
Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation
1902 South Fourth Street, Champaign, IL 61820
https://cabbi.bio/about/mission-vision/
9:30 – 9:45 AM Load Bus
10:00 – 11:00 PM Tour of University of Illinois Energy Farm
4110 S. Race St. Urbana, IL 61802
https://energyfarm.illinois.edu/
11:00 – 11:15 AM Load Bus
12:00 – 1:00 PM Lunch at Allerton Park and Retreat Center
Box Lunch- Sandwiches, chips, and drinks (covered by registration)
1:00 – 1:15 PM Break and walk to Mansion to begin formal tour of Allerton Park and Retreat Center
1:15 – 4:00 PM Tour of Allerton Park and Retreat Center
515 Old Timber Road Monticello, Illinois 61856
https://allerton.illinois.edu/
4:00 – 4:15 PM Load Bus to return to hotel
6:00 – 8:00 PM Dinner on your own and explore Champaign-Urbana
Don’t forget to look at the pamphlet in your welcome bag for restaurant options and optional activities.
8:00 – 11:00 PM Hospitality Suite
• The hospitality room is open for networking, committee meetings, and welcoming new members—bring photos to share!
Thursday, October 22, 2026, Business Meeting and Travel Home
6:30 – 8:00 AM Breakfast, 1st floor (provided by hotel)
8:00 – 11:00 AM Business Meeting –Basement
• Award and Committee Nominations
• Including remarks from interstate inspection considerations and annual meeting host state (MN).
11:00 AM Meeting Adjourned
SAFE TRAVELS HOME!
If you would like to bring an exhibit and have any questions or concerns. Andrew Mathis, [email protected].
___________________________________________________________________________________________
SPEAKER TOPICS & BIOS
Dr. Aaron Hager
The dicamba dilemma; returning to a soybean field near you
The dicamba dilemma; returning to a soybean field near you
Dr. Aaron Hager is a professor of weed science in the Department of Crop Sciences at the University of Illinois. He has more than 33 years of weed science experience and assists agronomic crop producers manage weeds by implementing sustainable practices. The focus of Dr. Hager’s research program is to develop innovative weed management approaches with an emphasis on addressing contemporary weed species infesting corn and soybean in Illinois. His ultimate research goal is to establish a robust applied research program, supplemented with basic research fostered through novel collaborations with ecologists and molecular biology scientists, to provide economical and sustainable solutions to the fundamental weed management challenges plaguing Illinois producers. He has been at the forefront in discovery and identification of novel instances of herbicide resistance in Illinois waterhemp. Such research included the documentation of the first cases (not only in waterhemp, but in any U.S. weed population) of multiple resistance to herbicides spanning two, three, and four site-of-action groups, the world’s first discovery of resistance to HPPD-inhibiting herbicides, and the first identification of resistance to Group 15 herbicides in a broadleaf species. Dr. Hager’s knowledge of practical weed management has been shared with weed management practitioners throughout the United States and across four continents.
Dr. Spencer Walse
Understanding Quarantine versus Commodity Fumigation Requirements
Understanding Quarantine versus Commodity Fumigation Requirements
Dr. Spencer Walse is a Research Chemist at the USDA-ARS-San Joaquin Valley Agricultural Sciences Center and teaches environmental toxicology classes at UC Davis. His experiences have led to an understanding of how biologically active compounds, including fumigants, move through the environment. Nationally and internationally recognized for chemical expertise as related to horticultural pest control and trade, Dr. Walse’s research directly contributes to US exports valued at ca. > $4 B annually.
Chris Evans
Tackling Invasive Species in Illinois: Rules, Regulations, and Initiatives
Chris Evans is an Extension Forestry and Research Specialist with the University of Illinois. He has over 20 years of experience working on invasive species management, forest restoration, and forest pests & diseases. Chris also serves as the vice president of the Midwest Invasive Plant Network, co-chair of the Terrestrial Plants Committee of the Illinois Invasive Species Council, and chair of the Illinois Forestry Development Council.
Dr. Trent Ford
Making Weather and Climate Information Work for Horticulture in the Midwest
Making Weather and Climate Information Work for Horticulture in the Midwest
Dr. Trent Ford is the Illinois State Climatologist with the Prairie Research Institute at the University of Illinois. He is an expert in climate and climate change and its interactions and impacts. Trent leads climate and drought monitoring, research, and data collection for Illinois. He and his team work with communities, industries, and state agencies on issues related to weather, climate, and climate change in Illinois, and they engage the general public through online, media, and educational outreach. A native of Roanoke, Illinois, Ford earned a bachelor’s in geography from Illinois State University before completing his master’s and Ph.D. at Texas A&M University.
Dr. Esther Ngumbi
Decoding the Secret Communication Language of Plants: From Chemical-Mediated Plant-Insect Interactions to Floral Whiffs
Dr. Esther Ngumbi is an Associate Professor of Entomology and African American Studies at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Her research investigates the multifaceted use of chemical signals by plants and plant-associating communities including insects. Her work also examines how plant breeding, abiotic stressors such as flooding, and stress combinations impact chemical signaling and multitrophic interactions. She is fascinated by plant chemistry and passionate about unmasking scent mysteries and identifying the compounds that give plants and flowers their distinctive aromas.
Dr. Fredric Miller
How Our Changing Climate is Affecting Plants and Their Response to Drought, Decline, and New Pest Threats
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Membership Dues:
HIS membership dues for 2027 are $20.00 and must be submitted no later than December 10th. Membership dues can be submitted and included in the registration check - however, be sure to fill out a separate membership application for each individual. If check includes membership dues for multiple attendees, please include relevant names on the check memo line.
Membership Application:
https://www.cchis.org/membership.html
Send your membership application and check to:
DATCP – Liz Meils, H.I.S. Treasurer
2811 Agriculture Drive
Madison, WI 53718
Exhibit Displays
If you are interested and want to bring a display from your state, please indicate this on the registration form. An area will be available for tabletop or floor displays.
State Reports
Each state should prepare a report using the standard HIS State Report form. The report should briefly summarize significant pests, diseases, activities, trends, and changes in your state. Please bring at least one printed copy for each attending state—ideally 30 or more, so all attendees can receive one. State report presentations are limited to five minutes. If you’re unable to print your report before the conference, you may email it to Chapter Secretary John Mortenson at [email protected] for digital distribution. All reports will be posted in the Members Only section of our website (cchis.org) after the conference.
Attire
In line with the HIS–Central Chapter motto, “To make professionalism a part of every effort,” please wear professional yet comfortable attire. Check the local forecast before traveling to the conference. Wednesday’s tour will include outdoor activities, so boots and field clothing may be appropriate.
EVENT
2026 HIS Central Chapter
Annual Conference
Location
Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana
217 N. Neil St.
Champaign, IL 61820
217 N. Neil St.
Champaign, IL 61820
Date & Time
START
Oct. 19, 2026, 3:00 PM
END
Oct. 22, 2026, 11:00 AM