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Editor: Kelly Sprute                                                                                          Feb. 28, 2018

Making a Difference

On-Site Molecular Detection of Soil-Borne Phytopathogens Using a Portable Real-Time PCR System

Rapid and accurate detection of plant pathogens on-site, especially soil-borne pathogens, is crucial to prevent further inoculum production and proliferation of plant diseases in the field. The method developed here uses a portable real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection system to enable on-site diagnosis under field conditions.

On-site diagnosis of plant diseases can help growers make timely decisions and enable the earlier implementation of disease management strategies to reduce the impact of a disease. Many diagnostic laboratories consider real-time PCR to be the most sensitive and accurate method for plant pathogen detection. However, laboratory-based PCRs typically require expensive laboratory equipment and skilled personnel. In this study, soil-borne pathogens of potato are used to demonstrate the potential for on-site molecular detection. Read the full Jove.com article or watch the video demonstration. 

NIFA News

USDA's 94th Annual Agricultural Outlook Forum

USDA held its 94th Annual Agriculture Outlook Forum in Arlington, Virginia. The event highlights key issues and topics within the agricultural community, offering a platform for conversation among stakeholders, producers, policymakers, government officials, and non-governmental organizations, both foreign and domestic.

News for You

2017 Census of Agriculture Needs Your Response There is still time to fill out your 2017 Census of Agriculture survey. As of today, the return rate on the 3 million agriculture questionnaires mailed last fall, is just over 40 percent. USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is making progress every day, but they need to hear from the rest of the producers. Help NASS spread the word that farmers and ranchers still have time to be counted in the 2017 Census of Agriculture.

RFA Grant and Award Announcements

NIFA Announces Support Farmers with Disabilities through Innovative Technology

NIFA announced support for the Assistive Technology Program for Farmers with Disabilities (AgrAbility). Funding is provided under the Smith-Lever Act for Farm Safety and Youth Farm Safety Education and Certification.

Through the combined dedication and expertise of the Cooperative Extension System and nonprofit disability organizations, AgrAbility helps thousands of determined individuals overcome the barriers to continuing their chosen professions in agriculture. It supports farmers and ranchers with disabilities through farm safety education, assistance, and support, and addresses their specialized needs on national, regional, state, and local levels. Read the full request for applications announcement.  

NIFA Announces Support to Address Critical Integrated Pest Management Needs

NIFA announced support to address critical state, regional, and national integrated pest management needs to ensure food security and respond effectively to other major societal pest management challenges. Funding is made through NIFA’s Crop Protection and Pest Management (CPPM) Grants Program.

CPPM encourages the establishment of strong communication networks and active participation of stakeholders to increase the impact of the research and extension. In fiscal year 2018, NIFA will solicit proposals for the Applied Research and Development Program Area and the Regional Coordination Program Area of the CPPM program. Read the full request for application announcement.

NIFA Announces Support for Agricultural Risk Management Education

NIFA announced support for the development and delivery of agricultural risk management education materials. Funding is made through NIFA’s Agriculture Risk Management Education Partnerships (ARME) Competitive Grants Program, which aims to support four Risk Management Education (RME) Regional Centers and one RME Electronic Support Center.

ARME provides U.S. agricultural producers and their families, as appropriate, with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to make informed risk management decisions that enhance profitability of their operations. Read the full request for applications announcement.
  

NIFA’s mission is to invest in and advance agricultural research, education, and extension to solve societal challenges. NIFA’s investments in transformative science directly support the long-term prosperity and global preeminence of U.S. agriculture.

If you wish to submit a news item or information, send an email to NIFAUpdate.

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