Director: Jan Dietrick
Jan founded the Dietrick Institute to expand training activities that she and her father had been doing through Rincon–Vitova Insectaries, Inc. Rincon–Vitova produces and markets beneficial organisms, but success for its customers requires understanding and knowledge about naturally–occurring biological control of pests. She wants to serve the needs of ecologically minded farm families.
Administrative and Field Coordinator: Rex Meach
Rex studied botany, with an emphasis in plant ecology, at the University of California at Santa Barbara. Instead of continuing his graduate studies following military service, he went on to a 19 year career with the Mayo Clinic in laboratory medicine. But he never lost interest in ecology and the special thought processes it engenders. His long–time interest was fulfilled when he joined Rincon–Vitova Insectaries, Inc. overseeing shipping and eventually playing a key role in its operations. Once the Dietrick Institute was established his administrative ability found a new and even more challenging arena and he found ample opportunity to satisfy his lifelong interest in ecology.
Urban Projects Leader: Ron Whitehurst
Ron is a licensed Pest Control Advisor and involved with organic methods for almost 30 years. His book Reading Weeds as Soil Indicators is a database in need of some updating but still ahead of its time.
Youth and Arts Education Program Coordinator: Duke Gribble
Duke Gribble received his State of California K–12 teaching credential and baccalaureate degree from Northridge University, while majoring in English and Theater. He has over 10 years experience as an environmental sciences educator in California and has been recognized by the United States Presidency for service to the nation through environmental protection. As an avid outdoor enthusiast and naturalist, Duke has traveled and studied extensively throughout natural ecosystems in America and abroad. He is currently writing and editing technical documents for an entomological website database and working on educational theatre projects for the Dietrick Institute.