Loren Giesler was named head of the Department of Plant Pathology effective Sept. 1, 2018. Prior to serving as department head, Dr. Giesler provided statewide leadership for extension plant pathology programs in alfalfa, soybeans, ornamentals and trees. Soybean in Nebraska was where Dr. Giesler spent most of his effort. His research projects in soybean included Bean pod mottle virus, Soybean Cyst Nematode and Phytophthora root and stem rot. Other projects included annual rose fungicide trials for black spot management and other ornamental diseases as they emerged. He is also previously worked on injection studies in pine to manage Pine Wilt Nematode with Dr. Mark Harrell of the Nebraska Forest Service.

Soybean pathology: Disease surveys on soybean viruses and Phytophthora sojae races in Nebraska. Management studies on soybean viruses and germplasm evaluations to find tolerance to Bean Pod Mottle Virus. Efficacy trials for soybean seed treatment fungicides and development of an integrated management program for Phytophthora sojae. Soybean rust fungicide application studies with USDA and national leader for identification of soybean rust. Toured South America rust fungicide efficacy trials in 2004 and 2005. Coordinator for national soybean rust sentinel monitoring efforts. My program also is working on several studies on soybean cyst nematode to improve management programs for this significant pest of soybean.

Turfgrass pathology: Fungicide efficacy trials for various diseases affecting turfgrass quality on golf and landscape turfs.

DISCLOSURE:

Dr. Giesler has disclosed a significant financial interest in membership and management of Field Screen, LLC. Field Screen, LLC has received compensation in the last 12 months for pesticide testing from the following companies: BASF, Bayer Crop Science, Syngenta Crop Protection, Arysta Life Sciences, Valent U.S.A. Corporation and FMC Corporation. In accordance with its Conflict of Interest policy, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Conflict of Interest Review Committee has determined that this must be disclosed.

Field Screen, LLC is a company that specializes in disease efficacy testing for developmental fungicides in southeastern Missouri under extremely conducive environmental conditions for disease development. This outside activity provides Dr. Giesler with additional insight into agricultural chemical development and improves his ability to assist farmers and commercial agricultural clientele with their management decisions. Outside business activity is encouraged at the University of Nebraska as a way to improve faculty insight and promote economic development.