Connecticut's chief regulator of plants passes away

From CGGA:

Dr. Louis Magnarelli, Director of the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station based in New Haven, died last week of a long illness at his home.  He had broad regulatory authority over horticulture in the state -- powers which he used carefully, preferring instead to consult and work quietly behind the scenes in cooperation with the Connecticut Greenhouse Growers Association (CGGA) and green industry organizations on issues like plant quarantines.

"Lou made it a habit to speak with me usually twice or more every week on plant diseases and pests," said Bob Heffernan, who directs the green industries. "He's perhaps the most responsive and caring public servant I've ever worked with."

Magnarelli's position is one of the state's top three agricultural posts. He authored more than 200 scientific papers and specialized in medical entomology (diseases from insects).  He served on the Experiment Station staff since 1975, rising to become Director of the agency with 75+ scientists.