Building Disease Resistance Capacity in Idaho's Agriculture
GrantID: 11595
Grant Funding Amount Low: $18,500,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $18,500,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Capacity Gaps in Disease Resistance in Idaho's Potato Crop
Idaho is renowned for its potato production, contributing nearly one-third of the United States’ total volume. However, the state faces significant challenges regarding disease susceptibility in its potato crops. Diseases such as late blight and various soil-borne pathogens can devastate yields and threaten the economic viability of Idaho’s agricultural sector. The Idaho State Department of Agriculture reports that potato diseases have led to over $50 million in losses annually, underscoring the importance of developing resilient crop varieties.
Potato farmers in Idaho find themselves grappling with the limitations of existing disease management strategies. Many of these farmers are small to medium enterprises, often with constrained budgets that limit their ability to invest in advanced research and disease management tools. Furthermore, the regional reliance on specific potato varieties exacerbates their vulnerability to widespread diseases. The gap in capacity to adopt innovative practices hinders overall productivity and economic stability in the state’s significant agricultural sector.
This funding opportunity focuses on investigating disease resistance mechanisms in Idaho’s potato crops by enhancing partnerships between local farmers and research institutions. The aim is to utilize bioinformatics tools that facilitate better understanding of soil microbial relationships, which play a vital role in enhancing disease resistance. By targeting the unique agricultural dynamics within Idaho, the funding is tailored to match the local needs of potato farmers.
As farmers gain access to improved knowledge and tools through this research initiative, they can implement adaptive practices that reduce disease impact on yields. This will not only bolster individual farmer resilience but also strengthen overall food security for Idaho. With an agricultural economy largely dependent on potatoes, the research outcomes have the potential to significantly elevate Idaho's status in the national agricultural landscape, ensuring that the state remains a leader in potato production moving forward.
Unlike neighboring states, Idaho's agriculture relies heavily on a single crop, making advancements in disease resilience crucial for sustaining its economic stability. Through focused research and innovative solutions, Idaho is striving to secure its agricultural future against the backdrop of evolving pest and disease pressures.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
