On July 31, 2025, CAST hosted a special Meet the Expert session with Matt Baur, Director of the Western Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Center.

A trained entomologist and long-time advocate for sustainable pest control, Baur shared his career journey, research focus, and the critical role of IPM in tackling two major challenges in the American West: invasive weeds and wildfires.

This discussion also offered a preview of a forthcoming CAST issue paper led by Baur: Integrated Management of Fire-Adapted Invasive Plants Responsible for Changing Wildfire Regimes. The publication will outline science-based strategies to reduce wildfire risk, protect natural habitats, and guide policy in a changing climate.