DisplayTitle

Special Sessions

Listed alphabetically by section. Sessions are preliminary and subject to change.

Biology of Pathogens

10th I. E. Melhus Graduate Student Symposium: Seed Pathology—Epidemiology, Management, and Phytosanitary Concerns

Section: Biology of Pathogens
Organizers: Lindsey du Toit, Washington State University, Mount Vernon, WA, U.S.A.; Gary Munkvold, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committee: Seed Pathology
Financial Sponsors: ROGERS Brand Vegetable Seeds (Syngenta); BASF Corporation; Casiana (Nollie) M. Vera Cruz of International Rice Research Institute (personal donation); Eurofins STA Laboratories; Lindsey J. du Toit of Washington State University (personal donation)

This 10th symposium will feature four to six presentations on graduate student thesis work highlighting research aimed at providing a better understanding of the epidemiology, management, and phytosanitary issues of plant diseases caused by pathogens that are seedborne. All graduate students with relevant significant work are invited to apply. Eligible research topics in the broadest sense include research assessing seed infection, seed transmission, genetics of host-pathogen interactions of seedborne pathogens, management of seedborne pathogens (seed treatments and other practices), epidemiology of seedborne pathogens, phytosanitary and regulatory issues, and other basic and applied aspects of seedborne pathogens.

Presentations and speakers to be announced.

Advances in Plant Virus Evolution

Section: Biology of Pathogens
Organizers: Rodolfo Acosta-Leal, Texas AgriLife Research (Texas A&M University), Amarillo, TX, U.S.A.; William Schneider, USDA ARS Foreign Disease Weed Science Research Unit, Fort Detrick, MD, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committee: Virology
Financial Sponsors: American Society of Sugar Beet Technologists; Beet Sugar Development Foundation; Samuel Robert Noble Foundation

As obligate parasites, viruses have evolved mechanisms to infect plants and undergo mutations and recombinations to adapt to new circumstances. A wide range of techniques and technologies have been used for developing an understanding of mechanisms of evolution in viruses with different genome organizations and replication strategies. A review of the current knowledge on processes associated with virus evolution and the influence of host plant, cropping methods, etc. on virus diversity and evolution is essential for sustainable crop improvement.

• The evolution of plant virus evolution: A historical overview. WILLIAM SCHNEIDER, USDA ARS Foreign Disease Weed Science Research Unit, Fort Detrick, MD, U.S.A.
• Population processes and plant virus evolution. ROY FRENCH, USDA ARS, Lincoln, NE, U.S.A.
• Evolutionary and systems biology of plant RNA virus emergence. SANTIAGO ELENA, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas, Valencia, Spain
• Evolution of natural populations of BNYVV to overcome host resistance: Breakdown of Rzl-gene. CHARLES RUSH, Texas AgriLife Research (Texas A&M University), Bushland, TX, U.S.A.
• How do geminiviruses evolve as quickly as RNA viruses? SIOBAIN DUFFY, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, U.S.A.
• Advances in the understanding of viroid evolution. ROSEMARIE HAMMOND, USDA-ARS, Molecular Plant Pathology Lab, Beltsville, MD, U.S.A.

Integrated Microbial Bioinformatics

Section: Biology of Pathogens
Organizer: Scot Hulbert, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committee: Public Policy Board

This session will cover the outcomes of a Public Policy Board-sponsored workshop in the Washington, DC area in January or February. The speed in which microbial genome sequences are becoming available has created a need for better and more integrated databases and bioinformatic support for microbial researchers. The topic of the session will be the feasibility and mechanics of creating an integrated network for databases, analysis tools, and training in sequence analysis and utilization.

Presentations and speakers to be announced.

Refining Systematics (Taxonomy, Nomenclature, Phylogenetics) for Better Resolution in the Population Biology and Evolution of the Oomycetes

Section: Biology of Pathogens
Organizers: Z. Gloria Abad, USDA-APHIS-PPQ-PHP-RIPPS-Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Beltsville, MD, U.S.A.; Kelly Ivors, North Carolina State University, Mills River, NC, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committees: Mycology; Forest Pathology
Financial Sponsor: Widely Prevalent Plant Pathogenic Fungi List Project

Although Phytophthora, Pythium, and the downy mildews are among the most studied organisms in systematics, there is still a great deal of confusion in recognizing valid species and new genera. Poorly annotated sequences exist in GenBank, making it impossible to identify some of the clusters for extypes or neotypes and consequently, the proper identity of an isolate. Examples of these complexes include Phytophthora capsici, Phytophthora citricola, Phytophthora drechsleri, Phytophthora megasperma, Pythium irregulare, prov. genus name Phytopythium vexans, and Py. helicoides. Although morphological and molecular characterization is used for describing new species, some have recently been found invalid. Establishing proper nomenclature provides a solid foundation for research tied to the species and for associated regulatory and disease control decisions. Experts in systematics, evolution, and population genetics will participate in this session, hopefully stimulating collaboration for addressing these major challenges in oomycete systematics.

• Pythium, Pythiogeton, and prov. name Phytopythium: The current status for the species in the genera. ARTHUR DE COCK, CBS, Utrecht, Netherlands
• How to avoid misidentifying your isolates: The value of the morphological/phylogenetic key of Phytophthora extypes and neotypes. Z. GLORIA ABAD, USDA-APHIS-PPQ-PHP-RIPPS-Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Beltsville, MD, U.S.A.
• The Phytophthora database: Current status and future direction. SEOGCHAN KANG, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, U.S.A.
• The Oomycetes database: The initiative for an international web-based informatics platform. FRANK MARTIN, USDA Agricultural Research Service, Salinas, CA, U.S.A.
• Mitochondrial genomics of Oomycetes, tools for phylogenetics, and development of molecular markers. FRANK MARTIN, USDA Agricultural Research Service, Salinas, CA, U.S.A.
• Emergence of Oomycete pathogens and population genetics. NIKLAUS GRUNWALD, Oregon State University, USDA-ARS, Corvallis, OR, U.S.A.
• Aquatic habitats: A reservoir for population diversity in the genus Phytophthora. JAESOON HWANG, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, U.S.A.
• Ecological adaptations in Phytophthora: Understanding their role in forest ecosystems. YILMAZ BALCI, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, U.S.A.

The Sophistication of Host-Pathogen Interactions Involving Necrotrophic Fungi

Section: Biology of Pathogens
Organizers: Timothy Friesen, Northern Crop Science Laboratory, USDA-ARS, Fargo, ND, U.S.A.; Shaobin Zhong, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committee: Genetics

Necrotrophic plant pathogens have long been thought to be less sophisticated than the well-studied biotrophs in their interactions with their corresponding hosts. Recent exciting research in the area of necrotrophic plant pathogen interactions has shown that the necrotrophic pathogen interactions may be just as sophisticated in their attack on their respective hosts. Speakers in this session will present research in the area of necrotrophic plant pathogen interactions from both the host and pathogen perspectives. This session will look specifically at virulence/pathogenicity of necrotrophic plant pathogens as well as at the host response to effectors involved in this interaction. 

• Live and let die: The smart lifestyle of Botrytis cinerea. JAN VAN KAN, Wageningen University, Wageningen, Netherlands
• Necrotrophy in Sclerotinia sclerotiorum: To oxalate and beyond. JEFFREY ROLLINS, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, U.S.A.
• Systematic characterization of the kinome in the wheat scab fungus Fusarium graminearum. JIN-RONG XU, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, U.S.A.
• Pathogen hijacking of disease resistance mechanisms in wheat. JUSTIN FARIS, Northern Crop Science Laboratory, USDA-ARS, Fargo, ND, U.S.A.
• Dissection of effector-induced host susceptibility pathways in Stagonospora nodorum blotch of wheat. SHUNWEN LU, Northern Crop Science Laboratory, USDA-ARS, Fargo, ND, U.S.A.
  

Diseases of Plants

Biology and Management of Rhizoctonia Diseases in Turfgrass Systems

Section: Diseases of Plants
Organizer: James Kerns, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committee: Turfgrass Pathology

Rhizoctonia diseases have a long history in the culture of turfgrasses. Recently, our understanding of the known Rhizoctonia species as well as of the new, emerging Rhizoctonia-like diseases has necessitated research to develop an organizational concept that remains faithful to the older taxonomic categories while recognizing newer developments in molecular systematics. This session will include an overview of past and current Rhizoctonia systematics and research updates on new and diverse Rhizoctonia diseases on cool- and warm-season turfgrasses.
 

• New Rhizoctonia-like pathogens associated with diseases of warm-season turfgrasses. PHILLIP HARMON, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, U.S.A.
• Biology of brown ring patch disease on cool-season turfgrasses. FRANCIS WONG, University of California Riverside, CA, U.S.A.
• Management of leaf and sheath spot of ultradwarf bermudagrasses. SAMUEL MARTIN, Clemson University, Florence, SC, U.S.A.
• Rhizoctonia species causing turfgrass disease in the transition zone: Identifying the pathogens and potential for resistance. BRANDON HORVATH, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, U.S.A.

Cryptic Foes: Gathering the Latest Advances on Pythium

Section: Diseases of Plants
Organizers: Carla Garzon, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, U.S.A.; Jerry Weiland, USDA-ARS- Horticultural Crops Research Lab, Corvallis, OR, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committees: Soil Microbiology and Root Diseases; Diagnostics; Chemical Control; Mycology

This session will provide updates on the current knowledge about Pythium phylogenetics, population genetics and diversity, sampling, diagnostics, disease management, and economic impact.
 

• Ecology and biology of Pythium spp. and their impact on crop production. FRANK MARTIN, USDA-ARS, Salinas, CA, U.S.A.
• Sampling and processing of samples for Pythium. GARY MOORMAN, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, U.S.A.
• Assessment of Pythium diversity in forest nurseries. JERRY WEILAND, USDA-ARS-Horticultural Crops Research Lab, Corvallis, OR, U.S.A.
• Role of Pythium spp. in the seedling disease complex on cotton: Results from the National Cottonseed Treatment Trials. CRAIG ROTHROCK, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, U.S.A.
• Pythium species associated to plants: The aggressive vs. the moderately low and nonaggressive. Z. GLORIA ABAD, USDA-APHIS-PPQ-PHP-RIPPS-Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, Beltsville, MD, U.S.A.
• DNA barcode, genomics, and phylogenetics of Pythium species. C. ANDRE LEVESQUE, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
• Population genetics and interspecies boundaries within the Pythium irregulare complex. CARLA GARZON, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, U.S.A.

Schroth Faces of the Future in Virology

Section: Diseases of Plants
Organizer: Lyndon Porter, USDA-ARS, Prosser, WA, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committees: Early Career Professionals; Virology

This session is designed to acknowledge the “up-and-comers” in the virology discipline of plant pathology. The speakers will present their current research and speculate on the future direction of their discipline in this special session.

Presentations and speakers to be announced.

Virus Fishing with Chips: Plant Virus Microarrays and Next Generation Sequencing

Section: Diseases of Plants
Organizers: John Hammond, USDA-ARS, Molecular Plant Pathology Lab, Beltsville, MD, U.S.A.; William Schneider, USDA ARS, Fort Detrick, Frederick, MD, U.S.A.; Maher Alrwahnih, University of California, Davis, CA, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committee: Virology
Financial Sponsors: APS-APHIS Virus Working Group; Noble Foundation

The list of viruses infecting plants is growing. There are many viruses that are not identified and characterized. Use of microarrays and next generation sequencing techniques are offering unprecedented opportunities to identify viruses, find new viruses, and examine virus populations. This session will bring experts together to share current knowledge on these topics and on how the new technologies are revolutionizing plant virology.

• Universal plant virus microarray development and validation. CLAUDE FAUQUET, Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, MO, U.S.A.
• High throughput sequencing—Next wave diagnostics. NEIL BOONHAM, Central Science Laboratory, Sand Hutton, Yorkshire, United Kingdom
• Viral population analysis by genome sequencing. ZHONGGUO XIONG, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, U.S.A.
• Next generation sequencing as a tool for studying virus ecology. ULRICH MELCHER, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, U.S.A.
• Bioinformatic analysis of microarray and next generation sequencing data. KAEL FISCHER, University of Utah, Department of Pathology, Salt Lake City, UT, U.S.A.

Epidemiology/Ecology/Environmental Biology

Assuring the Safety of Fresh Produce: Issues and Strategies

Section: Epidemiology/Ecology/Environmental Biology
Organizers: Jeri Barak, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, U.S.A.; Jacque Fletcher, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committees: APS Food Safety Interest Group; Public Policy Board

Building upon a 2007 APS Symposium on Human Pathogens on Plants, this session will address a breadth of practical issues to assist plant pathologists embarking on the study of human pathogens in fresh produce and to inform APS members on the progress of the APS Public Policy Board (PPB) on their work to establish a national, interagency initiative to target new funding streams for research. Speakers from FDA and from USDA food safety programs will identify agency priorities and opportunities. Other presentations will focus on navigating the regulatory requirements for human pathogen research, safe and responsible handling of human pathogens, and growers’ perceptions and practices with respect to assuring the safety of their products. A final speaker will provide an update on the PPB food safety initiative.

• Human pathogens on plants—Issues for plant pathologists. JERI BARAK, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, U.S.A.
• Ecology of human pathogens on plants. MARIA BRANDL, USDA-ARS, Albany, CA, U.S.A.
• Growers beliefs about food safety and effects of GAP-based management on vegetable microbial quality. MELANIE IVEY, Ohio State University, Wooster, OH, U.S.A.
• Seed industry challenges. RIC DUNKLE, ASTA, Alexandria, VA, U.S.A.
• Ground zero: Food safety research and extension in California's Salinas Valley. STEVE KOIKE, University of California Extension, Salinas, CA, U.S.A.
• Collaboration, cooperation, and engagement across agencies. LEANNE SKELTON, USDA-AMS, Washington, DC, U.S.A.
• The APS produce safety interagency initiative. JACQUE FLETCHER, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, U.S.A.
  
  

Plant Disease Epidemics and Food Security in Globally Changing Agricultures and Environments

Section: Epidemiology/Ecology/Environmental Biology
Organizer: Serge Savary, IRRI, Manila, Philippines
Sponsoring Committees: Crop Loss Assessment and Risk Evaluation; Epidemiology

The past few months have seen extraordinary constraints and pressures on global food markets, with dramatic regional and local consequences on food security and societal stability. Although the situation has eased some, the primary causes for such instability remain unresolved. This special session will focus on research that is underway or should be undertaken to address food security in major human food staples, such as rice, wheat, maize, potato, sorghum, and cassava. Presentations will be given that provide timely information on (i) the importance of plant diseases on global crop productivity; (ii) approaches to prioritizing research efforts; (iii) assessments of constraints and opportunities for new technologies; and (iv) research progress that is contributing to greater food security. Global change due to climate, credit availability, and diminishing natural resources will be presented in context of their measured or predicted impact on food security. Speakers will include experts from world agricultural organizations in the eastern and western hemispheres, and a specialized FAO economist also will be sought.

• Food security and plant disease epidemics. SERGE SAVARY, IRRI, Manila, Philippines
• Estimates of global crop losses. ERICH-CHRISTIAN OERKE, Institute of Crop Science and Resource Conservation (INRES) – Phytomedicine, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
• Seeking impact on food security of the poor through phytopathological science. REBECCA J. NELSON, Cornell University, Department of Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology, Ithaca, NY, U.S.A.
• The role of pest risk analysis and quarantine measures in food security. PHIL BERGER, USDA-APHIS-PPQ, Center for Health Science and Technology, Raleigh, NC, U.S.A.
  

Plant Pathogen Population Genetics: An Essential Tool for Crop Biosecurity

Section: Epidemiology/Ecology/Environmental Biology
Organizers: Niklaus Grunwald, USDA ARS, Corvallis, OR, U.S.A.; Erica Goss, USDA ARS, Corvallis, OR, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committee: Genetics

Plant pathogens have been recognized as threats to U.S. biosecurity in regard to agricultural crops and natural resources. Population genetics has played an important role in recent years in the detection and monitoring of emerging or re-emerging pathogens, elucidating the source of global migrations of pathogens, and in the assessment of future risk from pathogens. This session will highlight the contributions of population genetics to plant pathogen biosecurity.

• How can population genetics inform crop biosecurity efforts? NIKLAUS GRUNWALD, USDA ARS, Corvallis, OR, U.S.A.
• Comparative genomic approaches for monitoring movement of the highly virulent Puccinia graminis Ug99 lineage. JO ANNE CROUCH, USDA ARS, St. Paul, MN, U.S.A.
• Inference of Phytophthora ramorum migration pathways. ERICA GOSS, USDA ARS, Corvallis, OR, U.S.A.
• Population processes influence aflatoxigenicity in Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. IGNAZIO CARBONE, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, U.S.A.
• A population genetics framework for understanding aggressiveness and toxigenicity of Fusarium head blight pathogens. TODD WARD, USDA ARS, Peoria, IL, U.S.A.

Molecular/Cellular Plant-Microbe Interactions

Broad-Spectrum Resistance: Molecular Mechanisms Involved in Pathogen Reception and Resistance Signaling

Section: Molecular/Cellular/Plant-Microbe Interactions
Organizers: Dennis Halterman, USDA ARS, Madison, WI, U.S.A.; Roger Wise, USDA ARS, Ames, IA, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committees: Molecular and Cellular Phytopathology; Host Resistance
Financial Sponsor: Syngenta

Relatively recent advances have been made in determining the molecular basis of broad-spectrum disease resistance in plants. Multiple levels of host responses to pathogen-derived molecules provide distinct sources and mechanisms of broad-spectrum resistance. Pathogen recognition receptors perceive conserved microbial molecular patterns to elicit basal defense responses, while resistance genes recognize the presence of pathogen effectors that may be essential for virulence. In this session, we will explore the molecular interface between hosts and pathogens and specifically focus on traits that result in host resistance to a broad spectrum of pathogen strains or types.

• Pathogen recognition receptors in plant innate immunity. CHRIS RIDOUT, John Innes Centre, Norwich, United Kingdom
• Dissecting QTL: The genes that contribute to disease resistance revealed. JAN LEACH, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, U.S.A.
• Genetical genomics of Ug99 stem rust infection identifies master regulators of defense in barley. ROGER WISE, USDA ARS, Ames, IA, U.S.A.
• Conserved pathogen effectors as targets for R genes—Molecular basis of effector function. BRETT TYLER, Virginia Bioinformatics Institute, Blacksburg, VA, U.S.A.
• The molecular basis of broad-spectrum powdery mildew resistance. RALPH PANSTRUGA, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Cologne, Germany
  

More than Just Antibiotics: The Multiple Mechanisms Leading to Biological Control and Plant Growth Promotion

Section: Molecular/Cellular/Plant-Microbe Interactions
Organizer: Brian McSpadden Gardener, The Ohio State University, OARDC, Wooster, OH, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committees: Biological Control; Soil Microbiology

Much early work went into the discovery of key mechanisms of biocontrol by bacteria, particularly antibiotics. However, it has become increasingly clear that multiple chemical signals produced by bacteria impact plant health. Also, genomic and ecological studies have shown that some of the most effective individual strains express multiple traits that lead to a robust plant-health-promoting phenotype. This session will cover recent research on the diverse mechanisms by which biocontrol bacteria are now known to promote crop health and suppress plant diseases. After discussing the individual mechanisms under study, the panel of speakers will convene to discuss how and why such mechanisms might be coordinated or integrated in natural systems.

• The multiple roles of auxin production and turnover in bacteria: Impact on plant health. JOHAN LEVEAU, University of California, Davis, CA, U.S.A.
• Bacterial determinants of induced systemic resistance and drought tolerance. SONG HEE HAN, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
• Differential roles of lipopeptides in plant host defenses and pathogen suppression. MARC ONGENA, University of Agricultural Sciences, Gembloux, Belgium
• Mutlifunctional acylhomoserine lactones: Mixed community signals. LELAND PIERSON III, Texas A&M, College Station, TX, U.S.A.
• Redefining the paradigm of biocontrol. BRIAN MCSPADDEN GARDENER, The Ohio State University, OARDC, Wooster, OH, U.S.A.
  

Nature’s Molecular Biologist: Xanthomonas and TAL Effector Function, Structure, and Diversity

Section: Molecular/Cellular/Plant-Microbe Interactions
Organizers: Frank White, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, U.S.A.; Adam Bogdanove, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committee: Bacteriology

This session will discuss the structure, function, and diversity of TAL effector proteins of Xanthomonas. Targets of these type III-secreted transcription factors in a wide range of host species will also be presented with a focus on the biological consequences of TAL effector-mediated host transcriptional reprogramming for disease and disease resistance. Insights into TAL effector specificity and applications of TAL effectors in research and biotechnology will be presented and discussed.

• Nature’s molecular biologist: Xanthomonas and the AvrBs3-related family of transcription activation-like (TAL) type III effectors. FRANK WHITE, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, U.S.A.
• Diversity of S and R genes in rice targeted by the TAL effector genes of Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae. BING YANG, Department of Genetics Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, U.S.A.
• TAL effector-driven host gene expression changes shape Xanthomonas interactions with crop plants. ADAM BOGDANOVE, Department of Plant Pathology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, U.S.A.
• Exploiting TAL effector diversity for biotechnology. THOMAS LAHAYE, Institute of Genetics, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany

Small Molecules in Phytopathology: From Determinants of Disease to Modulators of Defense

Section: Molecular/Cellular/Plant-Microbe Interactions
Organizers: Srinivasa Rao Uppalapati, The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Ardmore, OK, U.S.A.; Tom Mitchell, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committee: Molecular and Cellular Phytopathology

This session will focus on host- and/or pathogen-derived small molecules that regulate microbial pathogenesis, disease development processes, and signaling networks involved in plant responses to a wide range of pathogens. The session will also address emerging paradigms, newly identified small molecules that could provide novel ways to control diseases by either priming plant immunity or interfering with effector secretion systems.

• Unraveling the site- and mode-of-action of protein host-selective toxins. LYNDA CIUFFETTI, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, U.S.A.
• Hijacking and manipulation of host responses by pathogen-derived hormone mimics. SRINIVASA RAO UPPALAPATI, The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Ardmore, OK, U.S.A.
• Oxalic acid creates a reducing environment in the host which is required for pathogenic success. MARTIN DICKMAN, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, U.S.A.
• Azelaic acid: A new player in priming plant defense. JEAN GREENBERG, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, U.S.A.
• Networking by small-molecule hormones in plant immunity triggered by beneficial microbes. ANTONIO LEON-REYES, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
• Small molecule type III secretion system inhibitors. HEATHER FELISE, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, U.S.A.
  

Plant Disease Management

The 2009 Tomato and Potato Late Blight Crisis: The Interaction of the Urban Home Garden and Commercial Agriculture—What Went Wrong and What We Learned

Section: Plant Disease Management
Organizers: Brian Olson, Dow AgroSciences, Geneva, NY, U.S.A.; Roger Kaiser, Valent BioSciences Corp., Libertyville, IL, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committees: Industry; Extension

In early July 2009, tomato plants infected with late blight were being sold by the “big box” stores up and down the East Coast, creating a late blight epidemic. This session will examine how the crisis began; the impact on commercial tomato growers; how regulators from different states reacted to the situation; how the nursery industry production system works with the “big box” retail stores; the science of the epidemic; and the APS Extension Committee’s task force report and recommendations on the crisis.

• Overview and economic impact—Extension and grower response. MEG MCGRATH, Cornell University, Riverhead, NY, U.S.A.
• Overview of the nursery industry production system for the retail business, i.e. big box stores. Presentation by a Nursery Production Manager. BRIAN OLSON, Dow AgroSciences, Geneva, NY, U.S.A.
• Perspective of the crisis from the state regulatory inspection service. SEONG-HWAN KIM, Plant Disease Diagnostic Lab, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Harrisburg, PA, U.S.A.
• Science of the epidemic. KENNETH DEAHL, USDA ARS, Silver Spring, MD, U.S.A.
• Extension Committee task force—Report and recommendations. MARTY DRAPER, USDA CSREES, Washington, DC, U.S.A.
• Discussion

Biocontrol Beyond the Bench: Large-Scale, Successful Biocontrol

Section: Plant Disease Management
Organizer: Mark Weaver, USDA ARS, Stoneville, MS, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committees: Biological Control; Biotechnology

This session will bring together researchers who have successfully translated research findings into applications with a positive impact for society through the biocontrol of plant diseases and invasive weeds. Together, we hope to compile some of the lessons learned and to direct ongoing research around some of the pitfalls on the path between bench science and successful, applied biological control.

• Registering biopesticides and safeguarding public safety. MICHAEL BRAVERMAN, Biopesticide and Organic Support Program IR-4 Project, Rutgers University, Princeton, NJ, U.S.A.
• Bringing a broad-spectrum biohebicide to market. ALAN WATSON, McGill University, St. Anne De Bellevue, QC, Canada
• Understanding your customer and delivering a quality product. BILL FOSTER, BioWorks Inc., Victor, NY, U.S.A.
• Lockdown: Collego bioherbicide gets a second act. KELLY CARTWRIGHT, ARA Inc., Fayetteville, AR, U.S.A.
• Working together: Partnering with grower organizations from development through distribution. PETER COTTY, USDA ARS, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, U.S.A.
• Reduction of aflatoxin by biocontrol in Africa. RANAJIT BANDYOPADHYAY, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Oyo, Nigeria
  

Creating Possibilities for Sustainable Postharvest Disease Control Through Integrated Approaches to Both Pre- and Postharvest Fungicide Resistance Management

Section: Plant Disease Management
Organizer: Chang-Lin Xiao, Washington State University, Wenatchee, WA, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committees: Postharvest Pathology; Pathogen Resistance
Financial Sponsors: PACE Intl.; Janssen PMP; Syngenta Crop Protection

Several new pre- and postharvest fungicides have recently entered the market. This session will focus on the key drivers for the development of fungicide resistance in the pre- and postharvest crop production systems and establish the views on pre- and postharvest integrated approaches to the sustainable management of fungicide resistance in postharvest pathogens as seen by the fungicide-resistance research community and the companies that are developing these new products. A dynamic panel of speakers has been identified to address this exciting topic. The collaborative output from this session is anticipated to help establish a standard foundation for resistance management recommendations for newly introduced pre- and postharvest fungicides that are used for postharvest disease control.

• Resistance mechanisms to postharvest fungicides. ULRICH GISI, University of Basel and Syngenta Crop Protection, Basel, Switzerland
• Resistance management: An integration of strategies from fungicide development to systematic usage based on epidemiological and chemical information. JIM ADASKAVEG, University California, Riverside, CA, U.S.A.
• Management of fungicide resistance in postharvest pathogens of pome fruits: Integrated approaches from orchard to storage. CHANG-LIN XIAO, Washington State University, Wenatchee, WA, U.S.A.
• Resistance management strategies for new postharvest fungicides—Pace International perspective. PETER SANDERSON, Pace International, Yakima, WA, U.S.A.
• Resistance management strategies for new postharvest fungicides—Syngenta perspective. ALEX COCHRAN, Syngenta Crop Protection, Granite Bay, CA, U.S.A.
  

Edible and Medicinal Mushrooms: Diversity, Commercial Production, and Disease Management in High-Volume Production Facilities

Section: Plant Disease Management
Organizers: Mo-Mei Chen, University of California, Berkeley, CA, U.S.A.; Barry Pryor, University of Arizona, Tuscon, AZ, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committees: Mycology; Forest Pathology; Extension

This special session will provide an overview on the diversity of edible and medicinal mushrooms and on the state-of-the-art in the commercial production of gourmet and specialty fungi, highlighting the economic impact of this emerging agricultural product. Additional emphasis will be on modern disease management strategies employed in large-scale production facilities.

• Global expansion in gourmet and medicinal mushroom cultivation and use. MARK WACH, Sylvan Inc., Saxonburg, PA, U.S.A.
• Disease management in commercial mushroom facilities: Controlling the fungus’ fungus. DAVID BEYER, The Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA, U.S.A.
• Genetic improvement of commercial mushroom strains. CHRISTINA SMITH, Lambert Spawn Company, Coatesville, PA, U.S.A.
• Developing curricula in mushroom cultivation at the university. MIKE DAVIS, University of California, Davis, CA, U.S.A.
• Challenges and future prospects for organic mushroom production. TINA ELLOR, Phillips Mushroom Farms, Kennett Square, PA, U.S.A.
  

Identifying Quantitative Resistance Using Modern Technologies—Challenges for Plant Breeding

Section: Plant Disease Management
Organizers: Kimberly Webb, USDA-ARS, Fort Collins, CO, U.S.A.; Alemu Mengistu, USDA-ARS, Jackson, TN, U.S.A.; Zhi-Yuan Chen, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committees: Host Resistance; Molecular and Cellular Phytopathology

This session will apply current technologies for identification of multi-trait, broad-spectrum resistance for use in today’s public and private breeding programs. Discussion on how effective the use of quanitative trait loci (QTL), DNA expression profiles, and proteomics have been in devolving new public and private breeding programs and their utility in incorporating novel sources of disease resistance into traditional breeding programs.

• Bioinformatic strategies for predicting candidate genes under disease resistance QTL. REBECCA DAVIDSON, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, U.S.A.
• QTL use for development of host resistance and putting it to use—Industry perspective. GIRMA TABOR, Pioneer Hi-Bred, Johnston, IA, U.S.A.
• Proteomics in identifying potential markers for developing broad-spectrum resistance. ZHI-YUAN CHEN, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, U.S.A.
• Using network biology to identify quantitative genetic variation altering signaling in both plant host and generalist pathogens. DAN KLIEBENSTEIN, University of California, Davis, CA, U.S.A.

Induced Resistance: Where Does This Fit in IPM Programs

Section: Plant Disease Management
Organizer: Barry Jacobsen, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committees: Biological Control; IPM

This session will focus on host plant resistance induced by bacteria, fungi, and chemicals.

• Induced resistance: Overview and definitions. PETER BAKKER, University of Utrecht, The Netherlands
• Seed- or soil-applied bacteria that induce resistance—Use in IPM programs. JOSEPH KLOEPPER, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, U.S.A.
• Foliar-applied Bacillus that induce resistance—Use in IPM programs. BARRY JACOBSEN, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, U.S.A.
• Trichoderma-induced resistance—Use in IPM programs. GARY HARMAN, Cornell University, Geneva, NY, U.S.A.
• Chemical compounds that induce resistance—Use in IPM programs. ALLISON TALLY, Syngenta, Greensboro, NC, U.S.A.
  

Kasugamycin: The Risks and Benefits of Introducing a New Antibiotic

Section: Plant Disease Management
Organizer: Alex Cochran, Syngenta Crop Protection, Greensboro, NC, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committees: Chemical Control; Public Policy Board; Pathogen Resistance; Bacteriology
Financial Sponsor: ArystaLifeScience

Kasugamycin is due to be registered in the United States in 2010. Concerns about risks for antibiotic resistance of human pathogens will be discussed along with benefits for controlling bacterial diseases of various crops. Topics to be discussed will be efficacy, impacts for food safety, EPA/FDA concerns, global regulatory concerns/hurdles, and reviewing current needs after a lengthy drought of antibiotic registrations.

• Concerns about lateral transfer of genes for antibiotic resistance. PATTY MCMANIS, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, U.S.A.
• Rediscovery of the antibiotic kasugamycin for managing fire blight and other baceterial diseases of plants in the United States. JIM ADASKAVEG, University of California, Riverside, CA, U.S.A.
• Kasugamycin: A novel antibiotic for U.S. agriculture. JAMES SPADAFORA, Arysta LifeScience North America LLC, Cary, NC, U.S.A.
• EPA/FDA view regarding new antibiotic registrations and resistance potential. LOIS ROSSI, EPA, Crystal City, VA, U.S.A.
• Kasumin: Field results for fire blight management and evaluation of the potential for resistance development in Erwinia amylovora. GEORGE SUNDIN, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, U.S.A.
• Resistance management strategies for bacterial pathogens: What works?  KEN JOHNSON, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, U.S.A.
  

New Products and Services

Section: Plant Disease Management
Organizers: Courtney Gallup, Dow AgroSciences, Davenport, IA, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committee: Industry

This session will provide a forum for highlighting new products and services that are in the pipeline or are now offered to growers and researchers to aid in managing or understanding plant diseases.

• IPM scope CAM. CYNTHIA TURSKI, Spectrum Technologies, Plainfield, IL. U.S.A.
• Novel immunocapture PCR Kits for Detection of Plant viruses. JOHN Q. XIA, AC Diagnostics, Inc., Fayetteville, AR, U.S.A.
• Actinovate AG. MARK ROBERTS, Natural Industries, Houston, TX, U.S.A.
• Stratego Pro: A prothioconazole-trifloxystrobin fungicide in corn and soybeans. JULIUS E. FAJARDO, Bayer CropScience, Research Triangle Park, NC, U.S.A.
• Luna: A new fungicide from Bayer CropScience. GEORGE MUSSON, Bayer CropScience, Research Triangle Park, NC, U.S.A.
• METLOCKTM 3.7 FS Fungicide: A new seed treatment from Valent U.S.A. Corporation. KAREN ARTHUR, Valent U.S.A. Corporation, Plano, TX, U.S.A.
• Update on seed treatments from BASF. HENDRIK YPEMA, BASF Corporation, Research Triangle Park, NC, U.S.A.

Restoring Forest Ecosystems Impacted by Invasive Pathogens

Section: Plant Disease Management
Organizers: William L. MacDonald, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, U.S.A.; Pauline O. Spaine, USDA Forest Service, Athens, GA, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committee: Forest Pathology

Numerous North American forest ecosystems have been severely impacted by nonnative invasive pathogens.  Although the long-term damage that has resulted is recalcitrant to recovery, progress is being made to restore some impacted ecosystems.  Several examples of restorations that are ongoing will be presented.

• Can whitebark pine be saved? ELLEN MICHAELS GOHEEN, USDA Forest Service, FHP, R-6, Central Point, OR, U.S.A.
• Rescuing Port-Orford cedar. RICHARD SNIEZKO, USDA Forest Service, Cottage Grove, OR, U.S.A.
• Restoring a fallen giant – The American chestnut. WILLLIAM L. MACDONALD, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, U.S.A.
• The future of California and Oregon coastal forests. DAVID RIZZO, University of California–Davis, Davis, CA, U.S.A.

Professionalism/Outreach

The APS Public Policy Board: New Challenges for Phytopathologists

Section: Professionalism/Outreach
Organizer: Jacque Fletcher, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committee: Public Policy Board

This session will provide updates and opportunities for APS member input on high-priority APS public policy initiatives. These include strategies for the establishment of a National Plant Microbial Germplasm System, progress on the APS effort to shape the future of education in plant pathology, issues related to plant pathogen regulatory issues and permitting, and future initiatives in the genomics of plant-associated microbes. The session will finish with presentations by the APS-OSTP fellow and the Public Policy Board early career intern, both of whom will speak about their experiences and accomplishments working on public policy issues. A final discussion period will allow APS members to ask questions, provide input on the Public Policy Board activities, and volunteer to work on ongoing projects. 

• The policy climate in Washington, DC. KELLYE EVERSOLE, Eversole Associates, Bethesda, MD, U.S.A.
• The National Plant Microbial Germplasm Collection. RICK BENNETT, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, U.S.A.
• Looking ahead in genomics of plant-associated microbes. SCOT HULBERT, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, U.S.A.
• Microbial-plant interactions: Human pathogens on plants. JERI BARAK, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, U.S.A.
• Policy making up close: Reflections of the APS Office of Science & Technology Policy Fellow. MARY PALM-HERNANDEZ, USDA APHIS, Beltsville, MD, U.S.A.
• EPA from the inside: Report from the APS-EPA Fellow. FRANK WONG, University of California, Riverside, CA, U.S.A.

Prepare for Your Future: Career Opportunities After Graduate School: Part 2 - Extension

Section: Professionalism/Outreach
Organizers: Heather Olson, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, U.S.A.; Kestrel Lannon, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, U.S.A.; Alan Chambers, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, U.S.A.; Patricia Wallace, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, U.S.A.
Sponsoring Committees: Graduate Student; Extension

This session will be the second in the series started during the 2009 APS Annual Meeting exploring career opportunities in various sectors of plant pathology. This year, the session will inform graduate students about career possibilities in extension plant pathology. The session will explore the spectrum of careers available at both the masters and doctorate levels of education. Invited speakers will share personal experiences, as well as provide insight on how to obtain and develop a successful career in extension services. 

• Is extension right for you? JANNA BECKERMAN, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, U.S.A.
• Extension jobs from MS to PhD: Acquiring the skills and developing the resume to get the job you want. BARRY JACOBSEN, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, U.S.A.
• A year in the life of a diagnostician. GAIL RUHL, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, U.S.A.
• A year in the life of a county extension agent. TOM STEBBINS, University of Tennessee Extension Service, Chattanooga, TN, U.S.A.
• Starting an extension specialist career from the ground up. LINDSEY DU TOIT, Washington State University, Mount Vernon, WA, U.S.A.
• Discussion: Speaker panel Q&A