LU Hires an Extension Horticulture Plant Pathologist

Published: September 1, 2012

On October 15, 2012, Dr. Zelalem Mersha-Ayele will start working for Lincoln University (LU) as the Extension State Plant Pathology Specialist. His Extension responsibilities will include the development and delivery of research-based information including recommendations for the prevention and management of diseases affecting vegetables and small fruits throughout the state. This is a very much needed area of expertise for LU to expand and continue providing support to vegetable and small fruit farmers in Missouri. As soon as Dr. Mersha is on board we will inform readers of this IUPM Newsletter about trips that Dr. Mersha will conduct with Dr. Jaime Pinero, State IPM Specialist, to various regions of MO so that farmers meet him and provide him with input on the most relevant diseases that Dr. Mersha should focus on. Dr. Mersha is very interested in integrating disease prevention and management as part of an overall IPM scheme for increased and sustainable production of small fruits and vegetables.