Soybean Rust
On November 10, 2004, USDA confirmed the first case of Asian Soybean Rust in the continental United States in Louisiana. The spores of Asian Soybean Rust can be spread over extremely long distances by the wind. The spores are currently believed to have arrived in air currents from South America where the disease is prevalent.
With potential yield losses ranging from 10 to 80 percent, early detection is key to limiting the financial impact to growers. If you suspect Asian Soybean Rust, contact any of the following for assistance in obtaining a diagnosis:
- Walt Blosser, PDA Headquarters, 717-772-5205
- Dr. Erick De Wolf, Penn State University, 814-865-9620
- Gary Clement, USDA, 717-241-0705
- Any Plant Inspector at your local PDA Regional Office
Pennsylvania along with many other states and in cooperation with USDA has already taken steps to identify and conditionally approve fungicides for use in the prevention of Asian Soybean Rust. These preparations will help in shortening response times and limiting the impact of this disease. The following fungicides have been conditionally approved for use against the disease:
| Active Ingredient | Trade Name | EPA Registration # |
|---|---|---|
| Propiconazole | Tilt | 100-617 |
| PropiMax EC | 62719-346 | |
| Bumper | 66222-42 | |
| Tebuconazole | Folicur 3.6F Foliar Fungicide | 264-752 |
| Myclobutanil | Laredo EC | 62719-412 |
| Laredo EW | 62719-493 |
Several other conditional fungicide approvals are pending at this time. Remember if you are using one of these products for Asian Soybean Rust you must have a copy of the EPA approval and directions for use in your possession, and comply with all EPA requirements.
Related Links
- USDA's Soybean Rust Information Site
- Regional IPM Centers Soybean Rust - A Real Threat to American Agriculture
National Pest Alert: Soybean Rust- EPA's Pesticide Program Ready for Soybean Rust Threat to Soybean Crop
- North Central IPM Center Teleconference Notes - Soybean Rust: Issues and Facts
- Animal and Plant Inspection Service - Soybean Rust: News and General Information
- Soybean Rust: A National Agricultural Library Resource Guide