People You Should Know: Mike Kinter

IAA would like to help you get to know some of the important people involved in Iowa forestry. The "People You Should Know" feature highlights a person we think you should know if you are interested in the trees of Iowa.
Mike Kinder

Mike Kinter

Entomologist for the Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship

Mike Kintner is an entomolgist for the Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship.  He is the EAB and Gypsy Moth Outreach & Regulatory Coordinator.

1. Where were you before taking this position with the Iowa Department of Agriculture? How long were you there?

Before taking my current position, I worked as an Entomologist in the Entomology & Plant Science Bureau with the Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship (IDALS). I was at that position for almost six years.

2. What lead you to make this your career choice? 

I have always had an interest in the landscape, including tree and plant health. Not being tied up all day, every day in an office is a perk too.

3. What are some aspects of the job that you really like? 

Having the opportunity to visit numerous places and meet many people who share a commonality in tree health and preservation.

4. Is there anything in particular you would like to bring to light about any rules or regulations concerning EAB?

Even with the statewide EAB quarantine in place as of February of 2014, the Iowa EAB team strongly cautions Iowans not to transport firewood across county or state lines since the movement of firewood poses the greatest threat to spread EAB further and faster. Buy local & burn local. In addition, any firewood sold in Iowa is required to have labeling that includes harvest location information of the wood.

5. Are there any books or is there any gear that you always carry with you? Something you could not do without when you go to the field?

As far as gear is concerned, I make sure to have a sharpened draw knife for bark peeling and a pair of binoculars to aid in the observation of tree branches.


Phone:  515 – 725 – 1470 office
            515 – 745 – 2877 mobile  

EmailMike.Kintner@IowaAgriculture.gov