Lynn Braband, a distinguished educator for Cornell Integrated Pest Management’s (formerly New York State Integrated Pest Management) Community IPM Program retired in June 2020 following more than two decades of service. His significant contributions to wildlife management and school pest management have had lasting impact at local, regional, and national levels.
Braband joined Cornell IPM in 1999, and during his tenure, he became a respected naturalist and key figure in promoting environmentally sound pest management practices.
Braband's influence was particularly strong in school IPM. He created and led New York's Statewide School IPM Committee and co-led the Northeast School IPM Working Group. His commitment extended to several other committees, including the National School IPM Steering Committee and the International IPM Symposium Program Committee.
His practical research tackled real challenges faced by schools, such as reducing yellow jacket stings and managing geese on athletic fields. A prolific communicator, Braband authored more than 150 publications and delivered more than 50 presentations on topics ranging from bird management to bed bug reduction in childcare centers and the impact of White Nose Syndrome on bats.
For his extensive contributions, Braband received the 2022 International IPM Award of Recognition for an IPM Practitioner-Academic. His work on the NYS Nuisance Wildlife Control Operators Training Manual also earned multiple awards.
Colleagues nationwide have praised Braband for his determination, willingness to share knowledge, passion for the environment and reputation as a reliable and friendly collaborator.