Scouting for Soybean Rust In Missouri

Published: May 9, 2008

University of Missouri will reactivate its statewide early-warning network of soybean rust sentinel plots during 2008. Each sentinel plot will be monitored weekly from June to October. University of Missouri Extension regional agronomists in 20 locations will scout soybean fields and collect 100-leaf samples to be shipped overnight express to the pathology laboratory at the MU Delta Center for examination. The objective is to detect soybean rust when it first starts to develop in Missouri soybean fields so farmers can be warned to take action. Once the disease is detected, an all-out alert will be issued using radio and other media. This year, a toll-free hotline will be established through the Missouri Soybean Association so anyone can call to get up-to-date information regarding soybean rust movement. The hotline will have a pre-recorded message by Dr. Allen Wrather that will be updated daily once rust begins to spread toward Missouri. Contact Allen Wrather, wratherj@missouri.edu, for more information about this. Those interested in more information about rust can go to www.sbrusa.net to view a map of the US showing areas scouted for rust and areas were rust has developed.

Missouri farmers and crop consultants may have soybean leaves examined for rust by the University of Missouri Plant Diagnostic Clinic. Soybean leaves and a moist paper towel should be sealed in a plastic bag, and these should be sent immediately by express mail to the clinic along with a completed information form. The information form and more instructions about collecting and mailing samples to the clinic are posted at http://soilplantlab.missouri.edu/plant/index.htm. You may also call, 573-882-0623, or e-mail, plantclinic@missouri.edu, the clinic about this and other services they provide. The clinic can also provide diagnosis and management information for other soybean problems including diseases, insects, and weeds. There is a $15 fee for examination of samples submitted to the diagnostic clinic.