New Coordinator for Extension Nematology Lab

Published: March 27, 2015

Amanda Howland

Amanda Howland joined MU as the new Coordinator for the Extension Nematology Lab effective Dec 1, 2014. She replaced Bob Heinz, who retired after 35 years of outstanding work at MU on Dec 31st. Amanda received her MS in Horticulture from Oregon State University and her masters research was focused on determining spatial distribution of plant-parasitic nematodes in Vineyards of the Pacific Northwest and determining the host status of the northern root-knot nematode on grapevines.

Amanda in her role as the coordinator for the Extension Nematology lab will be receiving and processing soil samples for soybean cyst nematodes and other plant parasitic nematodes, provide identification of plant parasitic nematodes, offer quarantine tests, HG Race tests, and respond to clients questions on submitting samples, and provide technical assistance to the regional agronomy and horticulture specialists, researchers, state and government, and industry personnel on when and how to samples for nematodes testing .

The Extension Nematology lab provides timely and accurate testing of soil and plant samples for the presence of plant parasitic nematodes. Recommendations are provided for management strategies to reduce the effect of nematodes on plant growth and yield for the citizens of Missouri. You can reach Amanda at 573-884-9118 or email her nematodelab@missouri.edu. Samples can be dropped off or mailed to the lab at 23 Mumford Hall, University of Missouri. Columbia, MO 65211.