Edward F. Knipling

President's Award for Distinguished Federal Civilian Service

Edward F. Knipling (March 20, 1909 – March 17, 2000) was an American entomologist who made significant contributions to the field of insect control. He is best known for developing the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT), a method of biological control that has been used to eradicate or suppress various insect pests.

Early Life and Education

Edward F. Knipling was born in Port Lavaca, Texas. He developed an early interest in entomology and pursued his education in the field. Knipling earned his bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University and later obtained his master's degree and Ph.D. from Iowa State University.

Career

Knipling began his career with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in the 1930s. During his tenure at the USDA, he collaborated with fellow entomologist Raymond C. Bushland to develop the Sterile Insect Technique. This innovative method involves releasing sterilized male insects into the wild to mate with females, resulting in no offspring and a gradual reduction in the pest population.

Sterile Insect Technique

The Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) was first successfully applied to control the screwworm, a devastating pest affecting livestock. The technique was later adapted to target other pests, including the Mediterranean fruit fly and the tsetse fly. SIT has been recognized as a safe and environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides.

Awards and Honors

Edward F. Knipling received numerous awards and honors for his groundbreaking work in entomology. He was awarded the World Food Prize in 1992, along with Raymond C. Bushland, for their development of the Sterile Insect Technique. Knipling was also inducted into the National Academy of Sciences and received the National Medal of Science.

Legacy

Knipling's contributions to the field of entomology have had a lasting impact on agriculture and public health. His work has paved the way for more sustainable and environmentally friendly methods of pest control. The Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory in Kerrville, Texas, is named in honor of his and Bushland's contributions to the field.

See Also

• Entomology
• Sterile Insect Technique
• Raymond C. Bushland
• United States Department of Agriculture
• World Food Prize