Abbott Laboratories. Evaluation of promising new plant growth regulators with particular importance to the commercial apple industry in Vermont . For several years we have been working with Abbott Laboratories to test and hone application recommendations for two new plant growth regulators. A fruit thinner looks promising for enhancing Empire fruit size, and a stop-drop product may prove invaluable for better managing the Vermont McIntosh harvest. (M. Garcia, J. Clements)
American Floral Endowment. Management of thrips with insect-killing fungi: Optimizing spray applications . Western flower thrips is the predominant pest of greenhouse ornamentals. Chemical controls are widely used but alternative approaches must be developed to prolong the active lifetime of these insecticides and reduce pesticide use. Insect-killing fungi will control thrips on chrysanthemums but application protocols must be refined to maximize efficacy. Thus we are investigating the use of different spray techniques and spray protocols to apply fungi, and monitoring effects on field activity. (M. Brownbridge, M. Skinner, B. Parker)
Bedding Plants Foundation, Inc. Enhancing the activity of insect-killing fungi . Fungi are being developed for control of a range of greenhouse pests. To use them within an IPM strategy, though, it is essential to determine how they interact with other control components to formulate the most effective management approach. We are assessing simple compatibility with various "biorational" insecticides and evaluating potentially synergistic interactions that would enhance control efforts and broaden the potential utilization of these microbes in greenhouse pest management. (M. Brownbridge, M. Skinner, B. Parker)
Chittenden County Sugarmakers Assoc., VT Sugarmakers Assoc. Pear thrips biology . Insects are a constant problem to the sugar maple. Currently the most significant threat is the Asian long-horned beetle, recently introduced into New York from China. Over 2,000 infested trees were destroyed. We initiated a program to inform the public about this pest, and request they look for it. Over 1,000 calls were received, but so far this beetle has not been found in Vermont. Continual vigilance is essential to ensure that it is contained if not completely eradicated. (B. Parker, M. Skinner)
CREAM dairy herd business. CREAM experiential learning program at UVM. CREAM (Cooperative for Real Education in Agricultural Management) continues to provide a hands-on learning experience for mostly urban UVM students in the management and operation of a small registered Holstein herd. Students gain an understanding of production agriculture while developing group skills, leadership skills, and communication skills as they cooperatively run their business. (J. Gilmore, D. Watkin, D. Maynard, G. Rogers)
Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt, Cultural and Educational Bureau. Training fellowships. This project is a collaborative effort between UVM, Cairo University, and Zazazig University to train Egyptian Ph.D. students in the area of dairy food microbiology. (C. Donnelly)
ES-USDA. Farm safety. The Farm Safety program teaches and encourages the use of safe operating practices to reduce farm injuries and illnesses. Classes, demonstrations and the media emphasize machinery safety, personal protection, and farm accident rescue. The Tractor Safety program continues to prepare youth for work on the farm. Increased adoption of safer practices demonstrates a positive impact. (G. Cook)
ES-USDA, Funds for the Improvement of Post-Secondary Education (U.S. Dept. of Education). Vermont Farm Youth Corps School-To-Work transition model. VFYC's School-to-Work project is a partnership with UVM Extension faculty, US Dept. of Education, secondary school teachers, vo-tech educators, regional School-To-Work Partnerships, and the agricultural community to develop and implement statewide, year-round, agriculture-based, credit-bearing course work within Vermont's School-To-Work initiative. Thirty-five students participated in hands-on learning experiences supported by agriculture and career curricula. (G. Cook, H. Nottermann)
Freeman Foundation. Proctor Maple Research Center: Long-term fertilization research. There is a lack of knowledge on the effects of forest fertilization on maple sugar production. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the effects of fertilization on maple sap volume production and sap sweetness. Baseline stand conditions were measured and evaluation plots set up. An automated flow-through system to continuously monitor sap volume and sweetness has been designed and constructed. This research will examine the economic feasibility of fertilizing maple stands for sugar production. (T. Perkins)
Local grower associations, farmers, other agricultural businesses, and state agencies. Organic potting mix study. This project was initiated by producers and funded by a collaborative effort among university and community groups to compare cultural practices for overcoming the adverse effects of using compost-based potting mixes for transplants. Different compost materials and nutrient supplementation levels were tested to address this consistent challenge for Vermont's organic horticulturists. (V. Grubinger, W. Harper, K. Duesterberg, J. Hartland)
National Cattlemen's Beef Association. Application of edible coating technology in microbial/quality safety of beef products. Development of edible film as bacteriostatic/bactericidal barriers appears to be a promising means of enhancing both the microbiological safety and shelf-life of skinless beef frankfurters. This research has been aimed at optimizing edible coating techniques and formulation to effectively improve the surface microbial stability of beef frankfurters. (H. Chen, C. Donnelly, E. Ryser)
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Vermont grazing lands technical assistance. This collaborative project among UVM's Center for Sustainable Agriculture, NRCS, and Extension includes hiring a part-time Pasture Network Facilitator to support the new Vermont Grass Farmer's Association and to promote and support a network of pasture discussion groups. It also provides funds for coordinating annual grazing conferences, technical trainings, and for the monthly Vermont Pasturelands Network calendar. (V. Grubinger, K. Duesterberg, D. Heleba, S. Flack)
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Women's Agricultural Network. The Women's Agricultural Network (WAgN) is designed to provide education and technical assistance to individuals interested in starting or enhancing a farm or ag-related business. The Network is a collaborative effort of UVM Extension, the UVM Center for Sustainable Agriculture, and the Trinity College Women's Small Business Program. In its first two years, the Network has attracted over 700 participants interested in starting, diversifying, or expanding a farm or ag-related business. In addition, 28 women were able to complete ag-related business plans with the assistance of the Women's Ag Network. Presently in year 3 of 5, the thrust for FY-98 is to evaluate the programs and design a replication strategy. (L. Frey, M. Peabody, K. Duesterberg, D. Heleba, S. Moyser, D. Browning, B. Bishop, N. Bruce)
New England Cooperative Extension Consortium. Agricultural Plastics Recycling Program. The agricultural industry has increasingly relied on the use of plastics to wrap and store agricultural feeds. This collaborative research project with Connecticut and New Hampshire investigated the feasibility of agricultural film recycling, an environmentally sustainable disposal option. The final report described estimated use rates of agricultural films, available recycling markets, recommendations for pilot collections in partner states, and communicating with farmers. Agfilm use has increased, in part, because it is a flexible option that doesn't require heavy capital investment. By measuring the scope of the current use and disposal problem with agfilm, we have developed an important planning tool for developing policies and programs to ensure that agfilm is disposed of in an environmentally sustainable fashion. (G. Rogers, C. Negra, J. Conklin, J. Bartok)
New England Greenhouse Conference. Hardiness and controlled freezing of Pulmonaria cultivars. Lungwort (Pulmonaria) cultivars (12-15) will be frozen to controlled levels to determine absolute killing temperatures. Efforts were made to acquire stock plants and propagate plants for this study in the first year. (L. Perry)
New England Greenhouse Conference. Spray techniques for insect-killing fungi in greenhouses. Insect-killing fungi hold great promise for pest management of greenhouse ornamentals. Highly pathogenic strains have been identified, but information on how best to apply them is lacking. A method for measuring spray deposition and spore coverage on leaves was developed using scotch tape. Using this method, the efficacy of different sprayers will be evaluated for their suitability to apply fungi. Results from this research will provide growers with guidelines to follow when using these beneficial organisms. (M. Skinner, B. Parker)
North American Maple Syrup Council. Mass production of fungi for sugar maple IPM. Insect-killing fungi are being tested for pear thrips management in maple forests. Fungal materials may be effective, yet it is difficult to get agricultural corporations to produce spore materials for maple producers. In addition, the high cost of commercially produced materials could prohibit their use by sugarmakers. Thus, a method for mass-producing fungi was developed using maple seed and grain as a substrate. This method has potential as a cottage industry to supply growers with effective low cost biocontrol agents. (B. Parker)
North American Maple Syrup Council. Population dynamics of pear thrips: 1988-1996. Pear thrips is an intermittent pest of sugar maple in Vermont, occasionally causing severe foliar damage. Soil samples have been taken statewide for the past nine years to monitor pear thrips numbers and predict damage. Data on thrips population levels from these samples are being compiled to determine population trends and assess the influence of weather on the dynamics of this pest. (M. Skinner, J. Boone, T. Ashikaga)
Northeast Dairy Foods Research Center. Evaluation of slit defect and structural quality in long-hold Cheddar cheese using magnetic resonance imaging. Slit defect in long-hold Cheddar cheese, as evidenced by internal cracks and slits, has become a major economic problem throughout the United States with consumer rejection leading to decreased use and consumption. Slit defect in Cheddar cheese is normally determined by visually examining core samples for curd integrity. Because these slits are randomly distributed, success of this invasive and destructive technique is entirely dependent upon sample location. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) offers great promise as a research tool for better understanding slit development in Cheddar cheese. Research trials will evaluate feasibility of use of this technology for research purposes. (C. Donnelly, E. Ryser)
Northeast Dairy Foods Research Center. Properties of milk protein-based edible films and application in packaged foods. Development of whey protein-based edible films can turn cheese production byproducts to novel value-added packaging materials to enhance food quality and safety, and reduce the land-fill burden attributed to food packages. This research found a way to produce the edible films based on inexpensive whey protein concentrates with better functional properties. (H. Chen, R. Banerjee, S. Zhang, J. Feng)
Northeast Dairy Foods Research Center. Slit formation in Cheddar cheese: Comprehensive investigation of microbiological and chemical parameters associated with this defect. Heterofermentative lactobacilli are bacteria that are suspected of causing slits and cracks during aging of Cheddar cheese, resulting in severe economic loss. Procedures are being developed to determine sources of lactobacilli and preventative measures of control. (C. Donnelly, E. Ryser, C. Golnazarian)
Private sources. Construction of greenhouse. Two new greenhouses were constructed, using materials from a dismantled greenhouse. These are maintained with funds from the Vermont Vegetable Growers and several other private sources. They are used to rear plants for tests to develop insect-killing fungi into effective biological control agents for pests of forest, vegetable, and ornamental crops. (B. Parker, M. Skinner, M. Brownbridge, T. Sargent)
University of Vermont Committee on Research and Scholarship. Development of a farm labor service in Vermont. Vermont farmers, particularly dairy farmers, are in need of a source of trained, reliable laborers especially on a part-time basis. A farmer owned and operated farm labor service will fill this need. Focus groups conducted have verified need. Farmer association will form in 1998. Results of a farmer survey on likely use and costs will be used by new association in establishing service. (R. LeVitre)
University of Vermont Committee on Research and Scholarship. Evaluation of the nutritional value of velvet beans (Mucuna pruriens) using the chick as a model. The velvet bean plant is used as a moisture-preserving, weed-inhibiting cover crop in Central America, Africa, and the U.S. However, the beans themselves contain toxic factors that make domestic animals and humans sick when consumed. In this international project between Vermont and Honduras, we will study ways by which the beans might be processed to eliminate toxins and then incorporated into nutritionally balanced diets for humans and chickens. (L. Carew, A. Gernat, F. Kinghorn)
USDA. Agricultural Plastics Recycling Program. More than 80% of Vermont farmers now use some sort of plastic to store some portion of their feed and to store agricultural pesticides and milkhouse cleaning supplies. Literally hundreds of thousands of pounds of agricultural plastics are disposed of via various methods each year. This creates problems with air, water, and soil quality as well as aesthetics. This program seeks to initiate agricultural plastic recycling in Vermont through investigation of options for recycling, identification of barriers to recycling, coordination within the agricultural and recycling communities, communication with farmers regarding recycling opportunities and responsibilities, and implementation of pilot collections and market development initiatives. Pilot collection programs have tested the feasibility of agfilm recycling in a rural agricultural context. These programs have brought together a broad spectrum of public and private entities to investigate the parameters of the agfilm disposal problem and to explore alternatives to on-site burning and burying of used agfilm. (G. Rogers, C. Negra)
USDA. Agriculture in concert with the environment. This program, a joint EPA-USDA effort, funds research and education projects. Vermont is the host institution for the 12-state Northeastern Region. Projects are selected that will enhance environmental quality while maintaining or increasing economic returns to the farm family. (F. Magdoff, B. Holtzman, M. Simpson, W. Harper)
USDA. AIM: An interactive, dynamic apple information manager (http://orchard.uvm.edu/aim/). AIM is an interdisciplinary, regional collaborative project, involving apple growers and university Extension and research personnel from the six New England states. This project features a New England Apple Integrated Pest Management (IPM) website on the Internet. AIM provides apple growers and their advisors with access to communication functions, resource material, research reports, weather data, and daily updates of site-specific apple IPM decision support models. The research component of the project will evaluate the potential of private sector site-specific virtual weather data for making key on-farm IPM decisions. (L. Berkett, M. Garcia, J. Clements, G. Neff)
USDA. Biological mite control in northeast apple orchards by distributing the predator mite Typhlodromus pyri. This Cornell University-led project aims to establish a reliable mite biological control system and, simultaneously, instruct growers on how to best make use of this system. After the second year of this two-year project, Typhlodromus pyri have been successfully introduced into all three of the participating orchards in Vermont. (L. Berkett, G. Neff)
USDA. Characterization and control of compositional and functional changes in Mozzarella cheese used as an ingredient for refrigerated pizza. Refrigerated pizza is one of the fastest growing prepared foods. However, melting characteristics of the cheese ingredient deteriorate quickly upon exposure to pizza sauce in the unfrozen state. This study identified causes of deterioration and is working to develop strategies to prevent quality loss. (P. Kindstedt)
USDA. Cold acclimation of the strawberry plant. The correct timing of fall application of mulch on strawberry plants is essential for maximum yields the next summer. This project will determine whether observable changes in the growth habit of the plants in the autumn are associated with the development of winter hardiness and thus can be used as an indicator of when fruit growers and home gardeners should apply mulch over the plants for maximum winter production. (B. Boyce, D. Heleba)
USDA. Cold hardiness of hemlock woolly adelgid. The cold hardiness of the most northerly Massachusetts hemlock woolly adelgid population was evaluated in the lab at sub-zero temperatures that occur in the adjacent cold hardiness zone 4. Though survival decreased with temperature, 100% mortality did not result from any of the test temperatures, demonstrating that this pest poses a threat to hemlocks in Northern New England. (B. Parker, M. Skinner, V. Gouli)
USDA. Development of mathematical models to predict recovery of injured Listeria in dairy foods. Capability to predict the fate of injured pathogens is extremely important for food safety. We studied the repair of heat- and acid-injured Listeria in media and foods. Mathematical models derived can predict the potential of repair and growth of injured microorganisms, therefore assuring food safety during processing, storage, and distribution. (H. Chen, C. Donnelly, C. Chawla, T. Roth)
USDA. Development of a sustainable apple production system for the Northeast. The commercial potential of scab-resistant apple cultivars is being evaluated both from a horticultural and pest-management perspective. These new apple cultivars have been bred for resistance to apple scab, which is the major disease of apples. Cultivar resistance offers a biological alternative to fungicides in disease management. (L. Berkett, J. Clements)
USDA. Development of an action threshold for apple scab based on ascospore dose. An action threshold based on ascospore assessment at bud-break potentially would result in reduced fungicide use. A degree-day model was developed that estimates the total production of ascospores under incubation conditions. There was no correlation between a standard autumn field ascospore prediction and spring ascospore production under incubation conditions. However, analysis of replicate disease assessments from orchards showed that within 95% confidence intervals the autumn estimate was within 10% of the true mean spring ascospore dose in low-inoculum orchards. (L. Berkett, A. Gotlieb)
USDA. Entomopathogenic fungi for IPM: An international approach. Links between researchers in the U.S. and other countries maximize worldwide biological control expertise. In the first year of this project, a scientist from AVRDC, an international research center in Taiwan, spent one month at our Lab learning microbiological techniques and thrips rearing. He returned to conduct fungal bioassays on diamond-back moth. Using the same strains, we have conducted bioassays on western flower thrips. Results will be combined to select strains with dual pathogenicity to manage both pests. (B. Parker)
USDA. Entomopathogenic fungi of pear thrips as microbial control agents. Insect-killing fungi are being tested for pear thrips management in maple forests. Because of difficulties associated with getting agricultural corporations to produce spore materials for maple syrup producers, a method for mass-producing large numbers of viable spores was developed using maple seed and grain as a substrate. This simple method has potential as a cottage industry to supply growers with effective biological control agents at low cost. (B. Parker, M. Skinner, M. Brownbridge, A. Adamowicz, V. Gouli)
USDA. Evaluating freezing injury and cold hardiness of small landscape trees. Small trees are important in the many landscape situations where space is limited. Freezing stem samples in the laboratory is useful to determine cold hardiness of newly introduced plants. This study has shown that the ability to grow callus on stem samples after freezing is a useful tool for determining which temperatures cause injury. (N. Pellett, D. Heleba)
USDA. Evaluation of the pre-sidedress nitrate test (PSNT) for first-year corn following sod. The improved method for farmers to determine nitrogen needs for corn is by testing the soil for nitrate in the spring (Pre-Sidedress Nitrate Test or PSNT). It was not certain if this test functions well in fields where corn is grown for the first time after sod is plowed under. Our results indicate that the PSNT is still a reliable test, but it may underestimate nitrogen availability following sod. (F. Magdoff, R. Durieux)
USDA. Factors affecting herbaceous perennial hardiness. The least survival temperatures (LSTs) for several herbaceous perennials, including ones from the popular genera Heuchera and Pulmonaria, will be determined through controlled freezing, using plants in 400 ml pots. Representing various growth habits and sensitivities to cold, 3-5 perennials will be grown in 2.4 litre pots and a soilless medium with fertility from 20N-4.4P-16.6K, with fertility discontinued at either 1 August, 1 September, or 1 October. (L. Perry)
USDA. Grain supplementation for lactating cows on pasture . The purpose of the experiment is to determine the best method of supplementing lactating dairy cows on pasture. Three groups of pastured cows were fed equal energy as either grain, a TMR (total mixed ration), or no supplement at all. Average daily milk production was 56.7, 49.8, and 36.0 pounds respectively. Currently the effect on yield, profitability, and grazing behavior of grain and TMR supplemented cows is being studied. (J. Bramley, R. Palmer, J. Beller)
USDA. Greenhouse IPM for FY-96. Greenhouse ornamentals are among the fastest growing segments of agriculture in the Northeast. Growers rely heavily on chemical pesticides, but prefer non-chemical alternatives. Results of the 1996 survey of Integrated Pest Management practices and pesticide use in northern New England was compiled and will provide baseline information on growers' educational and research needs to expand IPM implementation. Through this tri-state cooperation (Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont) a grower workshop on IPM was held in 1997 and more are planned for the future. (M. Skinner)
USDA. Identifying profitable and environmentally sound methods of sheep production in Vermont. Collection of data continues as part of a three-year study to identify how Northeast sheep producers can maximize profits through the use of Intensive Pasture Management. Results from the baseline data gathered will be used to identify which practices need to be monitored and what data need to be collected. It is anticipated that profitable practices will be identified. (C. Parsons, K. Duesterberg, R. Wackernagel, S. Flack)
USDA. Impact of reduced fungicide programs on Liberty' apple tree vigor, productivity, and fruit quality. Scab-resistant apple cultivars offer a biological alternative to fungicide use. Liberty' apple, which shows strong commercial potential, was bred for immunity to apple scab, but it is not immune to other apple diseases and pests. This 3-year study has completed two seasons of field data collection and preliminary analysis. Completion of the research will determine whether reduced fungicide programs adversely impact overall tree vigor, productivity, and fruit quality. (L. Berkett, M. Garcia, J. Clements, G. Neff)
USDA. Improved detection of sublethally injured Listeria in foods. Major disease outbreaks and numerous sporadic cases of listeriosis occurring worldwide have implicated Listeria as a major foodborne pathogen. The goal of our work is to improve the reliability and sensitivity of food-testing procedures that account for recovery of sublethally injured Listeria. A new medium developed through this research, Listeria repair broth (LRB), significantly improves rates of recovery from foods. (C. Donnelly, T. Roth, M. Bunduki)
USDA. Improving calf rearing for integrated pasture-based dairying. Raising calves in groups on pasture can reduce labor demand and result in animals better suited to producing milk on pasture. This project examines grain supplement needs and parasite control in pastured calves. We found that calves grazing well-managed Kentucky bluegrass-white clover pasture did not need grain supplements after weaning to grow well. Farmers can save money by raising calves on high-quality pasture without grain supplements. (W. Murphy)
USDA. Lower Missisquoi hydrologic unit area project. In a program aimed at reducing agricultural impacts on water quality, farmers in the watershed were offered a variety of educational and advisory activities--workshops, field tours, demonstration field trials, and a crop management service. Farmer participants formed an independent Crop Management Association to assure continuation of crop and nutrient management services offered in the program. Significant reductions in phosphorus fertilizer use were documented, resulting in cost savings to farmers and less potential impact on water quality. (W. Jokela, S. Bosworth, J. Tricot, S. Cushing, C. Altemose, L. Howe)
USDA. Management of tarnished plant bug with entomopathogenic fungi. The tarnished plant bug (TPB) is the number one pest of vegetable and strawberry crops in the Northeast. Indigenous and exotic strains of insect-killing fungi will be tested in the laboratory for pathogenicity to TPB. A method to mass rear even-aged TPB has been developed, and bioassay methods are currently being assessed. Several potent strains will be selected for further development following the screening of large numbers of fungal strains. (B. Parker, M. Skinner, M. Brownbridge)
USDA. Management of Trichothecene mycotoxins in Vermont. Mycotoxin in feed reduces dairy production. We plan to: 1) determine the relative ability of two commercial immunoassays to quantify the presence of deoxynivalenol (DON) in corn and alfalfa silage as compared to the method of high pressure liquid chromatography; 2) determine and compare the ability of feed additives adsorbent/binders to remove DON, zearalenone (ZER), and T-2 toxins in a rumen environment; 3) determine silage matrix interference to commercial DON immunoassay tests; sample extracts will be prepared as directed by the commercial test; and 4) determine if Fusarium oxysporum root disease of alfalfa results in the production and systemic movement of DON to alfalfa foliage. (A. Gotlieb, J. Aleong, W. Currier)
USDA. Manure management for grass hay and silage corn to improve nutrient use efficiency and water quality. Field studies were established at 2 sites to evaluate new methods (banding with "trailing foot" vs broadcast) for applying liquid dairy manure on grassland. Banding manure reduced ammonia-nitrogen losses by 30 to 90%, increased efficiency of manure N use, and, in some cases, increased yields. The trailing foot method shows promise for increasing the economic effectiveness of manure application and reducing environmental impact. (W. Jokela, S. Bosworth, J. Aleong, J. Carter, P. Pfluke, J. Rankin)
USDA. Mycopathogens for whitefly management: Implementation and integration. In whitefly management, fungal spores must contact the host for infection to occur. Spray practices, therefore, directly affect efficacy. Testing different spray techniques, high-volume wet sprays have consistently provided superior levels of control. Fungi are best used within an IPM program; knowledge of their compatibility with other pest management products is thus essential for their concurrent use. In general, fungi were compatible with biorational pesticides tested; while some fungistatic effects were observed in in vitro tests, field impacts are likely to be minimal. (M. Brownbridge, G. Hendricks, B. Parker)
USDA. Potential of earthworms as biocontrol agents of scab and leafminers in New England apple orchards. The earthworm is the most important natural biological agent that removes apple leaves from the orchard floor. Removal of leaf litter can lead to increased soil health and reduce the need for fungicide applications to control apple scab and insecticide applications to control leafminer populations. This project will look at detailed case histories of orchard practices and measure how well earthworms fare in the various management programs used in New England orchards. (L. Berkett, G. Neff)
USDA. Regional research project NC-140: Rootstock and interstem effects on pome and stone fruit trees. Development and testing of new apple rootstocks is essential to insure the competitiveness and profitability of North American apple growers in what has become a global fruit market. In Vermont, a Cornell/Geneva series rootstock planting was established in 1992, with 'Liberty' as the scion, to evaluate fireblight-resistant rootstocks under our particular growing conditions. The test of the Cornell/Geneva rootstock has demonstrated the semidwarf rootstock CG30 is well adapted to the climatic and soil conditions in Vermont. This rootstock will be made commercially available to growers in 1998. A grower choosing this rootstock will have an earlier bearing and more productive tree than the commonly used rootstock M.7a.--thus increasing orchard efficiency and productivity. Also, this rootstock is resistant to fireblight, a devastating disease to the apple industry. (M. Garcia, L. Berkett, J. Clements)
USDA. Regional research project NE-183: Multidisciplinary evaluation of new apple cultivars. The North American apple industry must rapidly identify and evaluate promising new cultivars with very high fruit quality to remain competitive in the world market. This multidisciplinary project established plantings at over 35 locations across the United States and Canada, including one at the University s Horticultural Research Center. The planting was established in 1995; therefore, the data collected from this study this year is of limited value to growers. Continued evaluation of these cultivars will provide critical information to help North American apple growers remain competitive in a rapidly changing global fruit market by the introduction of new cultivars that are well adapted to the area in which they are grown. (M. Garcia, L. Berkett, J. Clements)
USDA. Regulation of mammary development and lactation. The dry period is a period of non-productivity for the farmer because the cow produces no milk nor income. A mammary culture system has been used to mimic the dry period of a cow to study the dry period. Hydrocortisone and the extracellular matrix were critical factors in maintenance of milk secretion. This study has the potential to eventually allow farmers to milk their cows without a dry period, thus preventing the economic loss that occurs during this time period. (K. Plaut, T. Casey)
USDA. Regulation of nutrient use in food-producing animals. USDA. This regional project is designed to investigate varying aspects of the control of lactation, growth, and pregnancy. Changes were measured in the receptors for transforming growth factor-beta in animals during lactation and the dry period. These will help us to understand how the gland changes during the dry period to prepare for the subsequent lactation. This study has the potential to eventually allow farmers to milk their cows without a dry period, thus preventing the economic loss that occurs during this time period. (K. Plaut, R. Maple)
USDA. Regulation of transforming growth factor beta-1 during mammogenesis in heifers. Overfeeding heifers causes the mammary gland to become fat and results in reduced milk production in subsequent years. This study is designed to determine whether transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF) plays a role in mammary development in heifers on different planes of nutrition. TGF and its receptors are expressed in the mammary tissue. It may decrease in overfeeding and after giving growth hormone, thus helping to promote mammary growth. (K. Plaut, R. Maple, S. Ahmed)
USDA. Resistance to mastitis in dairy cattle. Bovine mastitis remains the most costly disease of dairy cows. Enhancement of natural resistance mechanisms would minimize economic losses to producers and improve quality and safety of milk and dairy products for consumers. Understanding the mechanisms that mastitis pathogens traverse the teat canal to invade the udder could lead to improved methods for control. A teat canal explant model is being developed to study interactions with pathogens. The plasmin/plasminogen system of the mammary gland has multiple roles in involution, pathogenicity, and milk composition. Multiple studies are investigating this system to reduce incidence of mastitis and to inhibit proteolysis of casein. (J. Pankey, A. Bramley, B. Zavizion, P. Murdough, I. Kanevsky, L. Calderwood, J. White)
USDA. Sustainable agriculture research and education program for the Northeast region. This program, administered through UVM to serve the 12 Northeastern States and the District of Columbia, provides competitive grants for research and education on sustainable agriculture. (F. Magdoff)
USDA. The Virtual Orchard project (http://orchard.uvm.edu/) and UVM apple orchard. The Virtual Orchard, established November 1995, is a World Wide Web site providing commercial apple growers with up-to-date information over the Internet on all aspects of sustainable apple production. The site features current research reports, participation in on-line discussions, the "apple-crop listserv" (apple-crop@orchard.uvm.edu), and the latest horticulture production and pest management information. During 1997, the Virtual Orchard welcomed nearly 40,000 unique Internet visitors interested in apple production and served over 500,000 requested files. (L. Berkett, J. Clements, G. Neff)
USDA. Whole Farm' apple scab integrated pest management (IPM) project. This demonstration project explored how a relatively new disease management strategy, i.e., a delayed-spray strategy for initiating a scab fungicide program, would fit into all other orchard management decisions. This strategy is based on an action threshold, determined by an autumn assessment of foliar scab. Federal Crop Insurance was made available as a safety net to attract growers who otherwise would be hesitant to consider testing a new IPM strategy. Valuable insights were gained by this collaborative learning experience between apple growers, researchers, and Extension personnel. (L. Berkett, G. Neff)
USDA and Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. Cooperative agricultural pest survey. This project surveys the state of Vermont for exotic insects, diseases, and weeds that have not yet been found but are potentially serious pests if they gain a foothold in our state or the region. This year we surveyed for new weed and forest insect introductions. This project is done in cooperation with the Vermont Departments of Agriculture and Forests, Parks, and Recreation. (A. Gotlieb, A. Hazelrigg, P. Downer)
USDA-Forest Service. Entomopathogenic fungi for management of hemlock woolly adelgid. The hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) is a pest of hemlocks in New England. It has killed many trees in its eastern range from Massachusetts to Virginia, and is moving northward to Vermont. No effective biological or chemical controls exist, but insect-killing fungi hold great promise for their management. In samples from Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Virginia, over 100,000 HWA were inspected microscopically, from which 96 strains of insect-killing fungi were obtained. These will be assessed for pathogenicity in lab bioassays. (B. Parker, M. Skinner, S. Gouli)
USDA-Fund for Rural America. Vermont Food Science Center. The University of Vermont Agricultural Experiment Station, Extension, and Departments of Community Development and Applied Economics, Animal Sciences, and Nutritional and Food Sciences have obtained funds to permit planning for submission of a Centers Grant to the Fund for Rural America to fully staff the Vermont Food Science Center and develop programs which will position the Vermont speciality foods industry for future success. (C. Donnelly, C. Halbrendt)
USDA-Northeast Integrated Pest Management Special Grants. Entomogenous fungi for greenhouse IPM: Compatibility with agrochemicals. Insect-killing fungi under development as tools against insect pests of greenhouse ornamentals will be tested for compatibility with several commonly used fungicides, insecticides, and plant growth regulators. Results will help growers determine the best strategy for using fungicides and agrochemicals together in a total Integrated Pest Management program. (B. Parker, M. Brownbridge, M. Skinner, A. Adamowicz, S. LaRosa)
USDA-Pesticide Impact Assessment Project. Benefits assessment of fungicide usage for management of foliar diseases of alfalfa. The primary goals of this study are to fill the knowledge gaps needed to accurately anticipate the impacts of pesticide control policies concerning the use of fungicides on alfalfa production at the farm, state, regional, and national levels. Specifically, these knowledge gaps pertain to the need for credible, quantitative information concerning: 1) fungicide efficacy in alfalfa production, 2) geographical, time-series data effect on prevalence, incidence, and severity of foliar pathogens, 3) yield (and yield loss) data for different scenarios of fungicide input, and 4) economic impact analyses in relation to fungicide usage, non-usage, and the alternatives used to manage foliar diseases of alfalfa in the U.S. (A. Gotlieb, S. Bosworth, J. Aleong)
USDA-Rural Economic and Community Development/Vermont Agency of Development Community Affairs. Creation of a Center for Food Science in Vermont. This project will enable limited renovation of Carrigan Hall, on the University of Vermont campus, for a Food Science Center. This center will be used by the Vermont food processing community for new product development and technical outreach related to food safety and food processing. (C. Donnelly)
USDA, Special Grants. Fate of heavy metals in maple sap and syrup. Lead contamination of maple products, although infrequent, is a health concern. The purpose of this research is to examine various methods and equipment involved in maple syrup production to identify major sources of lead as well as explore ways to reduce lead contamination of syrup. Some buckets, spouts, and pumps, if lead-containing, may increase sap lead loads. This research is aimed at helping sugar makers who produce high lead syrup by identifying contamination sources and promoting removal of lead-containing equipment in sugaring operations. (T. Perkins)
USDA, Special Grants. Mechanism of maple sap exudation and fate of heavy metals in sap. Lead contamination sometimes occurs during maple syrup production. The primary purpose of this research is to identify the sources of lead contamination in sap and to find ways of reducing lead in retail syrup. Results show one of the primary sources to be the evaporator. This research will help maple sugar makers reduce lead contamination and ensure consumers of a pure product. (M. Tyree, T. Perkins)
USDA-Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education: National Training and Education Program. Development of dairy farm discussion groups in Vermont and New Hampshire. Dairy Extension Specialists and dairy farmers from Vermont and New Hampshire spent one month in New Zealand learning about the Discussion Group format of farmer education. Information gained has been relayed to Extension personnel and farm leaders via one-day training, radio and TV shows, a poster presentation, manuscript distribution, and Discussion Group facilitation. Five discussion groups will be developed in Vermont and New Hampshire. (L. Calderwood, B. Snow, V. Hurd, J. Conklin, D. Keith)
USDA-Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education. Expanding profits for sheep production through intensive pasture management . A challenge that exists for Vermont and Northeast sheep producers is how to operate a viable farming operation. This project was set up to collect data from several different sheep farms utilizing grass to enable us to identify management styles that are most profitable. We have completed the second year of a three-year grant. Information to date indicates there is a large variation in the cost of production. A final report will be written identifying the most profitable styles of sheep management. (C. Parsons, S. Flack, K. Duesterberg, R. Clapp, R. Wackernagel)
USDA-Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education. 1997 New England Sustainable Agriculture Conference. Developed in collaboration with a network of agencies and farm organizations throughout New England, the November 1997 conference provided an opportunity for 200 farmers and agency people to interact and inform each other, and for conference presenters to convey information and strategies on existing and emerging sustainable farming practices and technologies. (V. Grubinger, K. Duesterberg, D. Heleba)
USDA-Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education/ACE. Development of fungal entomopathogens for greenhouse IPM. Greenhouse ornamentals are among the fastest growing segments of agriculture in the Northeast. Growers rely heavily on chemical pesticides, but prefer non-chemical alternatives. Integrated Pest Management education is essential to enable growers to effectively and economically incorporate insect-killing fungi into a total biologically-based management program. A regional Research Advisory Group was established to guide development of educational programs for northern New England. IPM workshops are scheduled for the coming year. (B. Parker, M. Brownbridge, M. Skinner)
USDA-Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Chapter 3 Funds. New England Extension Sustainable Agriculture Training Program. This project has established effective regional networks among farmers, Extension, and agency personnel; increased knowledge about specific sustainable farming techniques; and developed skills to address complex community issues related to agriculture. Over 70 people have participated in two tours of farms in Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. More than 100 have participated in trainings on participatory research and education, and holistic resource management. A dozen fact sheets on sustainable agriculture topics will also be published. (V. Grubinger, K. Duesterberg, E. Wonnacott, representatives from the other 5 states)
USDA-Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Chapter 3 Funds. Ongoing implementation of statewide strategic plan for sustainable agriculture in Vermont. This project coordinates professional development for sustainable agriculture, including an annual spring seminar series on sustainable agriculture issues; publication of a quarterly newsletter on sustainable agriculture research, outreach, education, and resources in the state and region; and support of the sustainable agriculture internship program for UVM students. (V. Grubinger, K. Duesterberg, D. Heleba)
Vermont Dairy Promotion Council. Bulk milk tank survey: Assessment of microbial pathogens. This project involves assessing the microbiological quality of bulk tank raw milk with specific focus on incidence of E. coli 0157:H7, Listeria, and Salmonella in order to pinpoint sources and ultimately prevent entry of pathogens into milk supply. (C. Donnelly, T. Pritchard)
Vermont Dairy Promotion Council. Needs assessment of 250 Vermont dairy herds. This is a collaborative project with the Vermont Dept. of Agriculture to determine current status of milk quality of bulk tank milk (BTM) and associated management practices. The objective is to determine areas in dairy production that should be considered for future research and service activities to assure continued supply of high quality milk and dairy products. The average somatic cell count and standard plate count for BTM was 350,000 cells/mL and 11,000 CFU/mL. Streptococcus agalactiae, Mycoplasma bovis, and Listeria monocytogenes were identified in 26%, 1.6%, and 4.8% of the BTM samples. University and state efforts should continue coordinated efforts on mastitis control and on-farm hygiene practices to minimize SCC, SPC, and presence of pathogens of potential significance to human health. (J. Pankey, P. Murdough, J. Kaine, J. O'Neil, I. Kanevsky, C. Donnelly, T. Pritchard, D. Scruton)
Vermont Dairy Promotion Council. Plasmin/plasminogen correlations with specific mastitis pathogens. A preliminary study is in progress to determine relationships between specific mastitis pathogens and the concentration of these proteolytic enzymes in milk. Collaboration is with the Miner Institute to monitor udder health in 25 Jersey and 25 Holstein cows across one lactation. Plasmin and plasminogen levels will be correlated with breed, lactation number, days-in-milk, and somatic cell count. Emphasis is to determine effects on individual mastitis pathogens on these systems because this information has not been determined previously and could lead to development of improved mastitis control practices. (J. Pankey, P. Murdough, S. Chadoek, J. White, J. Kain, I. Politis)
Vermont Department of Education. Technical education reform: Agricultural and natural resources. Although agriculture is Vermont's second largest industry, less than 3% of our high school students currently enroll in agricultural/natural resources education programs. The purpose of this project is to reinvent agricultural and natural resources education for the 21st century. Vermont joined a 50-state consortium to develop visioning and planning initiatives that bring together key stakeholders at the local/state levels. These groups are sharing thoughts and ideas while developing consensus on what agricultural/natural resources education should be like 20 years from now. (E. Harris)
Vermont Department of Employment & Training. Vermont Farm Youth Corps Summer Program. The VFYC Summer Program is a partnership with UVM Extension, the Vermont Dept. of Employment and Training, and Vermont's agricultural community. The VFYC matches young Vermonters with production farms, agriculture-related businesses, and regulatory agencies for summer employment. Twenty-four Corps members, male and female, learned about agriculture and basic work skills while exploring career options in agriculture. Hosts excelled in teaching agriculture as well as attitudes and values closely associated with Vermont's work ethic. (G. Cook, H. Nottermann)
Vermont Division of Aging and Disabilities, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. Rural and Farm Family Vocational Rehabilitation Program. Farming is the second most dangerous occupation in the United States, leaving many farmers with disabling conditions that preclude them from returning to work and contributing to Vermont's economy. Each year the Rural & Farm Family Vocational Rehabilitation Program works with more than 150 participants who are disabled in some way. In FY-97, the program successfully placed 66 individuals in competitive and gainful employment. These individuals are now contributing to the economic welfare of the state. (G. Rogers, B. Chornyak, S. Powers, K. Mason, K. Wightman)
Vermont-EPSCoR (Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research). Polymerization of natural macromolecules (whey protein). Covalently cross linking proteins is an essential step in forming protein-based polymers. To further explore the potentials of protein-based biopolymers, one must develop a solid understanding of polymer science fundamentals. This project investigated the feasibility of cross linking whey proteins by using physical and chemical methods and extensively studied the physio-chemical properties of new polymers in order to gain some insights in designing and optimizing the quality and manufacture of whey protein-based polymers. (H. Chen, J. Li)
Wendling Foundation. Sustainable Agriculture Internship Program. This pilot program provides students with the opportunity to apply academic knowledge to real-world settings related to agricultural production, marketing, processing, or education. In the first year, 19 students applied to be interns, and 38 farms from 9 counties were recruited to be hosts. Eleven students will have earned from 1 to 4 credits for completing an internship project by the end of 1997. (E. Seyler, V. Grubinger)