20245118143302

This standard research and extension project (SREP) addresses two SCRI focus areas: 1) pest management; and 2) plant breeding and genetics.

A trans-disciplinary team of plant pathologists, entomologists, vector ecologists, a modeler, horticulturists, ecophysiologists, an economist, and extension specialists will investigate solutions to a serious and recalcitrant problem, laurel wilt, of an important specialty crop, avocado.

Laurel wilt has spread throughout Florida since 2011 and recently reached Texas.

This disease has caused the abandonment of avocado production wherever expensive control measures have not been used.

If adequate solutions for this problem are not found, commercial avocado production may become impossible in Florida, and as the disease spreads significant avocado production could eventually be impacted in other states (e.g. California and Hawaii), US protectorates (Puerto Rico), and other countries.

Cost-effective measures to manage laurel wilt are needed, but will require new information in several key areas.

The proposed work will fill critical data gaps, utilize new information to manage this problem, and inform stakeholders in Florida, Texas and California of the disease's status and advances in its management.

Information will be presented in diverse formats in both English and Spanish due to a significant Hispanic clientele.

The proposed work has significant stakeholder support and interest in all US commercial avocado production areas.

Substantial stakeholder engagement ensures broad and timely dissemination of project outputs, as well as stakeholder input on project goals and objectives.

University Of Florida

NOT APPLICABLE

10.309 - Specialty Crop Research Initiative

Institute of Food Production and Sustainability (IFPS) [USDA - NIFA]

Gainesville, Florida 32611-1941 United States

Single Zip Code

USDA-NIFA-SCRI-010534