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 Application Technology Research: Wooster, OH
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Ambrosia beetles tending to their fungus garden, a source of food for the larvae and adults. The ethanol produced by stressed trees helps ambrosia beetles find quality host trees. ATRU scientists have demonstrated that ethanol also promotes the growth of their fungal food and suppresses growth of fungal "weeds".
 ATRU researchers study how substrate chemical, physical, and biological properties affect container plant growth.
 ATRU researchers participate in the IR-4 Project, a national program to assist in registering pesticides for minor-use food and ornamental crops.
 ATRU scientists are evaluating environmental parameters, such as light, temperature, and carbon dioxide, and energy-efficient lighting and heating strategies for their influence on growth and development.
 ATRU scientists are developing improved techniques for monitoring invasive ambrosia beetles in nurseries based on new knowledge of behavior, movement, and flight activity across different habitats.
 ATRU scientists, together with university collaborators, have developed a field sprayer that uses intelligent technology to detect the presence, size, shape and density of target plants. This technology enables the sprayer to adjust in real time and apply the optimum amount of pesticide.


Welcome to theApplication Technology Research Unit The Application Technology Research Unit (ATRU) utilizes a multi-disciplinary approach in developing methods to enhance crop protection while safeguarding environmental quality, food and worker safety. Personnel are located in Wooster and Toledo Ohio.  They bring together scientific principles from engineering, entomology, plant pathology and horticulture while conducting on-site and on-farm research in nurseries and greenhouses.


Publications
                            More... Growth, phytochemical concentration, nutrient uptake, and water consumption of Butterhead lettuce in response to hydroponic system design and growing season Development of an electric variable air assist system for apple orchard sprayers Plants reduced nitrous oxide emissions from northern great plains saline/sodic soil


Midwest Area   james.altland@usda.gov


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