Plant Pathology

Our research program focuses on the management of fungal pathogens affecting pulse crops and cereals in Eastern Montana. We utilize a multifaceted approach which includes measuring the effect of agronomic practices and pesticide applications on plant disease management, investigating fungal plant pathogen community structure, and screening varieties for host plant resistance in collaboration with crop breeders.

Fusarium Head Blight
Fusarium Headblight Nursery
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Fusarium Root Rot on Peas

2024 Plant Pathology Crew

Pathology group planting FHB hill plots     Pathology Crew    Pathology crew processing root samples                             2024 Plant Pathology Group

 

 

Agronomy Program

The Agronomy research program focuses on agronomic practices including crop rotations, water use efficiency and nutrient management. Another major component of our program is variety trials for multiple crops including winter wheat, spring wheat, durum, barley, dry beans, soybeans, camelina and canola. In addition, we coordinate the statewide pulse variety trials that include peas, lentils and chickpeas.

 

2024 Agronomy Summer Crew

 

Irrigated Pulse Plots   Combining off-station cereal plots

 

Dr. Bill Franck speaking infront of drybean rotation    soybeans