My major research interest is the control of plant disease through low-cost and environmentally safe systems of agricultural production. Rising world populations make it imperative that we produce food and fiber more efficiently and safely than ever before. Losses induced by plant pathogens affect every aspect of agriculture and forestry, including agronomic and horticultural crops, forests, wild lands, and landscape and ornamental plants.
Damage occurs at all stages, from seeds to harvested crops.
Reliance on fungicides for control of many fruit or vegetable diseases must be reduced. Cultural practices that modify crop ecosystems to promote healthy plants while suppressing pathogen development need to be reexamined in light of current knowledge.