Yield Loss Prediction Tool for Field-Specific Risk Management of Asian Soybean Rust

Introduction

Asian soybean rust pathogen (SBR) is a serious threat to soybean production since its arrival in the United States. This pathogen has the potential to reduce crop yields by as much as 80% and may require one or several fungicide applications each season. The available fungicides are expensive and can cost $10-$35/acre per application. The risks to producers are obvious. Not using a control measure may decimate their crop, while the use of multiple fungicide applications may result in net economic loss, and increased environmental risks.

The objective of the current study was to predict yield loss from soybean rust damage at various reproductive stages of development. The ultimate aim of this international study funded by the Risk Management Agency was to develop an interactive software tool that would determine the farmer’s current yield potential and the yield loss predicted if SBR should defoliate the crop. The potential yield loss can be weighed against the cost of the fungicide application by using the calculator to make sound management decisions. Such a successful risk management tool will improve producer net economic return and guard against unnecessary fungicide applications that can impact the environment and increase the risk of developing fungicide resistance .

• htm - (warning: large file, best viewed with Internet Exlporer)
• ppt - 1.34MB (PowerPoint file for download)