True Yam Rust IPM: Using Extension and Educational Strategies with True Yam Growers in Puerto Rico
Extension Education
Jose Arocho
University of Puerto Rico
Yabucoa
Abstract
Commercial production of true yam in Puerto Rico is limited by true yam rust, [True Yam Rust (TYR)]. True yam rust can be found in South Asia, Oceania, and Africa, and more recently in Dominica, as Goplana dioscorea in Dioscorea alata. This type of rust had not yet been reported on the Island so far. This is why it is a potentially invasive species for Puerto Rico. Losses can be estimated between 60% and 100% of the production, which is why true yam rust can be classified as the first cause of economic losses in this crop on the island. The severity of the damage caused by true yam rust is due to the damage caused to the foliage during the period of tuber development. True yam producers should use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices to control true yam rust on their farms. This work focused on educating commercial true yam producers in Puerto Rico on how to apply integrated management practices in their production plots to control this pest. The implementation of the prevention and control measures for true yam rust recommended by the Puerto Rico Agricultural Extension Service where recommended, based on the results of field surveys on the fungus and the economic limits that these practices represent. Several educational interventions were conducted, including two workshops in the southeast area, on-farm individual training, and the publication of newsletters with this information. The effective use of these practices allowed commercial true yam producers to keep or even improve the harvest quality and quantity while increasing the supply of true yam in Puerto Rico.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Jose Arocho, Armando Sanchez Nazario
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Arocho, J. Agricultural Extension Agent, University Of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, 00767
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Sanchez Nazario, A. Agricultural Extension Agent, University Of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, 00723