Online Master of Agricultural and Life Sciences

Permanent URI for this collection

https://hdl.handle.net/10919/51287

The Online Master of Agricultural and Life Sciences (OMALS), http://www.cals.vt.edu/online/, is uniquely positioned to meet the evolving and dynamic needs of today’s agricultural professionals. The program offers concentrations in the areas of agribusiness, applied animal behavior and welfare, applied nutrition and physical activity, education, environmental science, food safety and biosecurity, and leadership studies, as well as plant science and pest management. In addition to engaging classes, students benefit from the opportunity to work on-on-one with well-respected faculty in Virginia Tech's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences to complete a rigorous final project, using what they've learned and developing real-world research and communication skills. This collection showcases final projects completed by current and former OMALS students.

Directions for final project and report submission

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 291

A Review of Physical Activity Interventions in a Hispanic/Latino Population with Elevated Risk for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
John T Murie (Virginia Tech, 2024-06-23)
Context: Hispanic/Latino adults are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus compared to non-Hispanic white adults. Regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of developing chronic conditions such as diabetes mellitus and obesity. Standard prevention programs have not shown the same level of effectiveness in the Hispanic/Latino population. Objective: The purpose of this systematized review was to evaluate the recent literature of physical activity interventions in the Hispanic/Latino population that may lead to an increase in physical activity and reduce long-term health risks. Design: A systematized review of recent published articles utilizing physical activity interventions in the Hispanic/Latino community. This included seven articles that were published in the past five years. Eligibility Criteria: Hispanic/Latino adults who have not been diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, but who may have certain risk factors such as pre-diabetes or obesity. Study Selection: Sources searched were PUBMED and CINAHL. These sources were searched between December 2023 and February 2024. The search yielded 1,298 citations without duplicates. The inclusion criteria included studies in which the populations were entirely Hispanic or Latino adults, with an intervention that included the promotion of physical activity and was conducted in Spanish. Main Outcome Measures: Increasing physical activity and decreasing risk factors, such as elevated hemoglobin A1c, body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage, and body weight. Results: Most researchers reported an increased engagement in physical activity with their interventions. The approaches to engage participants and the end points varied in the individual studies. Researchers reported significant increases in “leisure walking” (p=0.46) or “brisk walking” (p=0.011), which also resulted in decreased sedentary time. Researchers also reported an increased likelihood of achieving Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) physical activity guideline goals of ≥150 minutes of moderate- to vigorous- physical activity per week. After 12 months of a web-based physical activity tool, those meeting the CDC physical activity guidelines logged on significantly more than those who did not meet the guidelines (p=0.002). In addition, some researchers reported significant decreases in mean body weight with increased physical activity (p=0.004). Conclusion: In those studies that were most effective in increasing physical activity, researchers implemented structured use of technology that were customized to the Hispanic/Latino community. Additional studies need to be conducted to evaluate the appropriate level of reach and engagement to increase physical activity in the Hispanic/Latino populations.
The Perceptions of the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) by Female Army Officers on Event Physical Effectiveness and Assessed Practicality of the Assessment’s Scoring System
Nostrant, Valerie (Virginia Tech, 2024-04-27)
During nine years of active-duty service in the United States Army as an Officer, it has always been abundantly clear that there are discernable differences between male and female soldiers, which is amplified when you compare their physical abilities and performances. With the development of the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), set to replace the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), it was a concern from Congress to the US public what would the impacts of this test change would be on the careers of service members. The female US Army Officer population was underrepresented in both the beta testing and in the development of the ACFT events. This survey investigated the perceptions of these women on individual event effectiveness and the ongoing revisions of the scoring systems. Overwhelmingly, this survey showed the efficacy of many of the events in which the desired targeted skills were not being evaluated and that a gender based scale was required so as not to have a biased or unfair test of physical abilities.
Effects of Water Consumption and Body Water Content on Exercise Performance in Recreational Athletes
Brown, Meghan (Virginia Tech, 2024-06-05)
Objective: To evaluate water consumption and body water content of recreational athletes to determine their effects on physical fitness and performance. Methods: This secondary cross-sectional investigation utilized data from Drexel University. Participants had their data collected over two visits to the laboratory. Measurements taken in the original study included: aerobic fitness assessed via maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) using a metabolic cart, resting metabolic rate (RMR) evaluated using a metabolic cart, body composition measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), body water content measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), kilocalories (kcals) from vigorous physical activity measured using Actical accelerometers, water consumption assessed by asking participants how much water they consumed the day prior to each visit (at both time points), and dietary data from the 2005 Block Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). R studio (RStudio 2023.12.1 Build 402 "Ocean Storm" for Windows, 2024, Posit Software, PBC, Boston, MA) was utilized to run linear models that fit all covariates (age, sex, body weight, height, body mass index [BMI], kcals from vigorous activity), water consumption obtained at time points 1 and 2, extracellular water [ECW], intracellular water [ICW], total body water [TWC] obtained by BIA at time point 1 only). These models analyzed the two-way interaction of VO2max to the water variables or covariates. These models also analyzed three-way interactions of VO2max to water variables and covariates combined. A stepwise linear regression was then used, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests were performed. Linear regression of the significant water variables was plotted showing variations in age and sex. Results: A total of 141 individuals (65 females and 76 males), 18 to 64 years of age, were included in the secondary cross-sectional analyses. The youngest age group had the highest mean VO2max and body water content (47.8 mL/kg/minute and 98.34 L (TWC), respectively). Changes in the covariates (age, height, BMI, kcals from vigorous activity) were each found to significantly affect VO2max (all P<0.001). ECW (P=0.0005), ICW (P=0.01) and TCW (P=0.016) were significantly associated with VO2max. Water consumption at both time points were not significantly associated with VO2max. ECW had a strong positive relationship with VO2max for those 18 to 29 and ≥50 years of age. There was an inverse relationship between ICW and VO2max for those 18 to 29 years of age and those ≥50 years of age (P=0.0020 and P= 0.59, respectively). In those 18 to 29 years of age, as ICW increased VO2max increased, while for those ≥50 years of age, as ICW increased VO2max decreased. Conclusion: There were no significant associations found between water consumption and VO2max; however, significant correlations with water content assessed by BIA and VO2max were found. The significant positive relationship among ECW, ICW and VO2max, with variations by age, indicate that further research for these populations should be conducted because body water content may play a role in exercise performance. Keywords: Adult athletes, Body water content, Exercise performance, Recreational athletes, VO2max, Water consumption
The Choice of Football Helmets: Relationships between College Football Athlete’s Problem Solving and Preference for Helmet Safety
Coggsdale, Peyton; Friedel, Curtis R.; Kaufman, Eric K.; Walz, Jerald H. (Virginia Tech, 2024-05-08)
This study investigated the intricate interplay between football players' choice of helmets and their problem-solving styles. In light of the paramount importance of player safety in football, understanding the multifaceted factors influencing helmet selection is of utmost significance. The research specifically sought to uncover if there is a relationship between a player’s preferred problem-solving style and helmet choices, which may offer valuable insights into the decision-making process of football players. The study endeavored to contribute to a nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics of helmet selection in football, ultimately aiming to inform better decisions and enhance both player safety and satisfaction on the field.
Examining Efficiency of a Men’s College Basketball Team Using Kirton’s Adaption-Innovation Theory
Basile, Grant; Friedel, Curtis R.; Walz, Jerald H.; Ballein, Stephanie (Virginia Tech, 2024)
Canine Nosework as an Intervention for Behavior Change in Shelter Dogs
Semione, Nisa (Virginia Tech, 2024-05-08)
Millions of dogs enter the shelter annually in the United States. Dogs living in shelters experience a variety of stressors that can contribute to impaired welfare. Shelter enrichment programs are one way to mitigate these stressors and improve the welfare of kenneled dogs. This study compared the effects of nosework activities and positive human social contact via petting on the behavior of kenneled shelter dogs in response to an unknown person approaching the kennel. The present study found that dogs exhibited three behaviors most often in response to an unknown person approaching the kennel, 1) barking, 2) standing, and 3) jumping on the kennel. There were no effects found in either intervention on the proportion of time spent jumping on the kennel. Dogs exhibited increased standing behavior in their kennels after both interventions. There were no significant effects of the petting intervention on the proportion of time spent barking. The nosework intervention demonstrated an increase in the proportion of time spent barking the day-after the intervention, indicating a possible frustration response.
Going to the Vet? Don’t Fret: Using Treats and Scale Mats to Promote a “Stress-Free” Veterinary Experience for Dogs
Score, Tiffany (Virginia Tech, 2024-05-08)
Over 76.8 million pet dogs live in the United States and visit a veterinary clinic 2.4 times yearly, on average. For most dogs, these vet visits evoke stress, adding complications and complexity to executing necessary and routine care procedures. In a two-by-two mixed factorial study, we explored the potential effects and interactions relating to how a dog gets onto a veterinary scale, using a food lure or physical prompt, and whether a scale mat impacts procedural efficacy or efficiency. To analyze behavioral stress indicators within a veterinary context, we video-recorded a 3-min pre-experimental waiting period for each participant under both conditions. Dogs mounted the scale significantly faster if the scale was covered in a non-slip mat and a food lure was used. The handler effect was also significant, revealing that scale mounting procedural efficiency was impacted by whom the dog was handled. Lastly, behavioral analyses highlighted some key, easy-to-identify stress-related behavioral indicators that could serve as early warning signs a dog may struggle to complete necessary routine veterinary care procedures. These findings suggest simple, cost-effective strategies to reduce a dog’s stress when visiting the veterinary clinic.
Response of Septoria (Zymoseptoria tritici) isolates with Qi and Qo mutations under multiple fungicide selection
Howard, Jaema (Virginia Tech, 2024-05-08)
Inatreq, active ingredient fenpicoxamid, is a new QiI fungicide product brought to the market by Corteva Agriscience for strong activity against Septoria (Z. tritici). This study examines the interaction between Qo and Qi mutant Septoria isolates to confirm negative cross-resistance between the two sites. And to observe the change in sensitivity of the isolates in a mixed population over several generations and under multiple rates of fungicide selection. Initial growth rate and fitness isolates were determined for four isolate strains; wildtype (IPO323), G37V single mutation (WF.2.44), G143A single mutation (37- 16), and G37V-G143A double mutation (716.3F.2.2). Initial IC50 values were determined for several fungicides in multiple fungicide groups, QiIs, QoIs, Azoles, SDHIs to confirm negative cross-resistance and determine concentrations needed for fungicide treatments. A mixed population trial was then conducted with a 6-rate dose response for three fungicide treatments; Inatreq (QiI), pyraclostrobin (QoI), and a 1:1 mix of Inatreq and pyraclostrobin. It was suspected that throughout 6 generations, sensitivity of single mutant isolates to the opposite fungicide site inhibitor would increase. The double mutation isolate would become more sensitive under fungicide selection than the single mutant isolates. The results of the study confirmed this hypothesis of negative cross-resistance between fungicide groups. Qo single mutant isolate was determined resistant to QoI fungicide but sensitive to QiI fungicides, and the opposite found true for the Qi single mutant. The double mutant isolate was sensitive to both fungicide groups, with increased sensitivity than the single mutants. Under double fungicide selection, all mutant strains were sensitive to the treatment, with increased sensitivity than under single fungicide selection.
The Relationship Between Conflict Management Styles and Kirton's Adaption-Innovation Theory
McDonald, Trey (Virginia Tech, 2024-05-07)
The objective of this paper is to analyze connections between individuals' preferred problem-solving style and common conflict management techniques. Five common themes/styles were reoccurring in academic literature concerning conflict management techniques. The techniques of avoidance, collaboration, competing, compromising, and accommodation were the most prevalent in literature. Kirton’s Adaption Innovation (A-I) theory creates a foundation for this paper outlining preferred problem-solving styles. Kirton’s theory outlines the way individuals prefer to solve complex problems, and the behaviors used in order to work in collaboration. Using literature, conclusions were drawn that there are possible connections between both phenomena. Connection between both phenomena include similar processes, and use of collaboration as a key component to successfully create robust solutions. These two processes worked seamlessly with Kirton’s concepts of Problem A and B. These two processes outline and detail the cause and effect of conflicts created by working with others in the realm of collaboration. This review suggests future research propositions, creating a springboard for further research.
Using Negative Reinforcement to Promote Non-Agonistic Behavior in a Green Iguana (Iguana iguana)
Plass, Theresa (Virginia Tech, 2024-05-08)
Green iguanas (Iguana iguana) are a large, long-lived reptile well-equipped to defend themselves against predators and territorial conspecifics. These increasingly common household pets often respond to human caretakers with anti-predator behaviors including hissing and tail whipping. Current green iguana literature recommends long-term socialization training without any well-defined protocols. Animal behaviorists recommend positive reinforcement training whenever possible; however, negative reinforcement may be a suitable alternative when working with frightened or aggressive animals. Removal of aversive human presence contingent on the subject animal’s behavior has been shown to promote calm and friendly behaviors in domestic cats (Felis catus), domestic dogs (Canus lupus familiaris), and petting zoo sheep (Ovis aries). Negative reinforcement research has primarily focused on domestic mammals, but high-level learning capabilities have been demonstrated in a variety of reptile species. Thus, the present study aimed to apply negative reinforcement training to promote non-agonistic behaviors in a captive green iguana. Following 12 days of negative reinforcement training, an increase in non-agonistic behaviors were observed with a decrease in the overall number of agonistic displays and types of agonistic behavior presented. This study indicates that the previously described negative reinforcement protocols for domestic mammals also promote non-agonistic behaviors in a captive pet green iguana utilizing a naturally occurring and unavoidable stimulus to promote behavior change in a least intrusive manner.
Does Women on Weights Produce Changes in Self-Confidence and Mood Disturbance?
Worrell, Zachery (Virginia Tech, 2024-05-03)
Depression and mood disturbances among college women are prevalent concerns, prompting the investigation of interventions to improve mental well-being. This study explores the efficacy of a structured resistance training program tailored for women in enhancing self-efficacy and reducing mood disturbances over a 4-week period. Participants were recruited voluntarily and underwent a 4-week Women on Weights program, consisting of twice-weekly sessions. Pre- and post-surveys, including Beck's Depression Inventory (BDI), Self-Efficacy for Exercise (SEE), and Abbreviated Profile of Mood States (POMS), were administered to assess changes in mental health outcomes. Statistical analyses were conducted using paired t-tests and unpaired t-tests. Results indicate a significant reduction in depression symptoms across all participants, as measured by the BDI. While the SEE Scale did not show significant changes, the POMS survey revealed significant improvements in the Esteem-Related Affect subscale, suggesting an enhancement in self-efficacy post-intervention. Additionally, a trending significance was observed in the POMS Depression subscale, indicating a potential impact on depression symptoms with a larger sample size. These findings highlight the potential of resistance training interventions to improve mental well-being among college women.
An Exploration of the Relationship between Campus Recreation Usage at Virginia Tech and the COVID-19 Pandemic
Mengle, Julie (Virginia Tech, 2024-05-06)
Throughout the pandemic, Virginia Tech Recreational Sports operations were adapted in compliance with federal, state, and local guideline to ensure the safety of the students it serves as a department. Operational adjustments that were made included closures, limited capacities, and virtual programming to name a few. Participation rates in all areas of Virginia Tech Recreational Sports naturally saw a significant decrease during the pandemic due to these restrictions. This project investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on student engagement in campus recreation, or recreational sports, programs at Virginia Tech with a focus on facility gym swipes, group exercise attendance, and intramural sports involvement spanning three distinct time periods: pre-COVID (T1), during COVID (T2), and post-COVID (T3). Virginia Tech Recreational Sports data uploaded to Virginia Tech’s University Data Commons was used to analyze engagement numbers for students at the undergraduate and graduate level across various demographics including academic college, race/ethnicity, and gender. Statistical tests for significance were not able to be completed with the data in this study alone, so the results were only interpreted qualitatively. This study indicates that there has been a gradual return to pre-COVID engagement and participation levels in all areas of Virginia Tech Recreational Sports, but the return has been varied across each area. Intramurals appears to have higher involvement post-COVID than pre-COVID, whereas gym swipes and group exercise participation numbers have not returned to pre-COVID levels for most demographics. Return to pre-COVID participation levels varies between academic colleges, race/ethnicity, and gender for all areas. Research plays an integral role in informing decisions and developing strategies that will shape the future of campus recreation. Understanding how student engagement has evolved as a result of the pandemic can guide programmers within Virginia Tech Recreational Sports, specifically Director of Rec Sports Ali Cross, to make data-informed decisions for their offerings.
Exploring Genetic Influences on Food Allergies and Auto-Immune Diseases: Understanding Individual Variations
Anderson, Rashonda (Virginia Tech, 2024-04-23)
Food allergies pose a significant health risk, affecting millions of Americans, with symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Likewise, autoimmune diseases, where the immune system attacks healthy tissues, encompass a wide range of conditions, each with distinct symptoms and impacts on various organs. Through an analysis of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), this research explores associations between specific genetic markers and phenotypic outcomes related to allergies and autoimmune diseases. Utilizing data from the genetic testing service 23andMe, this study investigated how genetic makeup may be related to individual responses to food, shedding light on underlying molecular mechanisms. Results demonstrate significant associations between certain SNPs and disease outcomes, highlighting the potential for personalized interventions in managing allergies and autoimmune disorders. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of personalized nutrition and may pave the way for novel approaches to disease prevention and management.
Assessing Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Presence and Distribution in the Stormwater Systems of Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Coastal Communities
Blackburn, Savanna; Harrison, Michael (Virginia Tech, 2024-05-01)
This interdisciplinary study investigates the presence of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in socioeconomically disadvantaged communities within two coastal municipalities in the Virginia Coastal Plain. Utilizing a field and laboratory approach, the research aims to assess the distribution and concentration of 30 PFAS compounds across multiple environmental receptors. Initial grab-sampling conducted across four distinct sites provided preliminary data on a wide range of PFAS, employing targeted analytical techniques to evaluate their presence. The significance of the study is underscored by the ecological and public health risks associated with PFAS contamination. Results from the analysis revealed variable concentrations of PFAS compounds across the sampled locations, suggesting a relationship between urban infrastructure, environmental justice areas, and PFAS distribution. These findings contribute to the existing body of knowledge on PFAS environmental behavior, risks, and management, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and research. Additionally, the study demonstrates the critical role of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing complex environmental health issues, providing a foundation for future research and targeted sampling strategies to mitigate PFAS risks in urban coastal settings.
Food Manufacturing Environmental Air Quality Monitoring Programs: A Literature Review and Best Practice Recommendations
Murphy, Benjamin (Virginia Tech, 2024-04-29)
Poor air quality in food production environments can pose food safety and quality risks if not properly monitored and managed. With little regulatory guidance, it is up to manufacturers and processors to define if air will be tested, organisms to test for, how sampling will be performed and how often. There is a variety of testing equipment and methods available, and it is difficult to find an unbiased guide to help set up a new program or improve current air quality monitoring practices. This literature review investigated the availability of easy to understand guidance materials and sought to create unbiased guidance to food industry professionals seeking to understand the key components of microbiological air quality monitoring programs and some of the options currently available. Relevant research is presented to help readers understand why it is important to monitor microbiological air quality, testing equipment available, organisms to monitor for, sampling location considerations, budget and staffing considerations and more. Furthermore, the project referenced throughout this paper provides additional insight into how these best practices may be applied as food safety and quality professionals seek to create or improve the microbiological air quality portion of an environmental monitoring plan.
Food Safety for Small Vegetable Farmers, Publications Contributing to the Success of Virginia Small Vegetable Farmers through the Lens of Food Safety Practices
Long, Frank (Virginia Tech, 2024-04-29)
Limited educational food safety publications are available for small vegetable farmers and extension personnel seeking information on the exemptions from FSMA regulations and the Produce Safety Rule, along with voluntary practices and food safety practices. Research was conducted to construct three educational publications focused on the Best Management Practices and Good Agricultural Practices, vegetable washing stations, handwashing stations, and sanitizing practices. These educational publications are for distribution within the Virginia Cooperative Extension System and for use by Cooperative Extension Agents, Specialists, and growers who need to educate themselves or others on the basics of on-farm food safety needs and practices. This report serves (1) small and beginning vegetable farmers in the realm of food safety, (2) provide Virginia ANR Extension agents with publications to help them explain the intricacies of vegetable food safety on the farm, and (3) help with educating Virginia stakeholders to the intricacies of on-farm vegetable food safety practices.
When and Why Companion Dogs are Returned to Animal Shelters – A Multifactorial Analysis
Thanawala, Kristen (Virginia Tech, 2024-04-15)
Millions of dogs come through the shelter system each year, and it is estimated that between 7% and 15% of the dogs that are adopted are returned after a failed adoption. Understanding the factors that predict canine returns to animal shelters might help to inform adoption counseling, reducing intake and euthanasia rates in shelters. Additionally, understanding when returns are more likely to occur following adoption might influence the strategic deployment of resources by shelters to mitigate commonly reported behavior issues. This study utilized intake data from three related animal shelters over a five-year period to investigate what variables were predictors of canine return post-adoption, with a particular interest in dogs’ origin geography compared to their adoptive home geography, as well as time following adoption in which failed adoptions were more likely to occur. The results of our analysis showed no significant relationship between the geographical origin of dogs and returns, but it did suggest a relationship between dogs adopted into urban locations and likelihood of return. Additionally, our analysis supports the findings of prior research that dog breed groupings and age are predictors of adoption success. Finally, we were able to identify that returned dogs have a 66% likelihood of being relinquished by their adopters within the first 30 days following placement.
Working with Youth Basic Food Safety Training for Master Food Volunteers
Hannah Parker; Renee Boyer; Lester Schonberger; Tonya Price (Virginia Tech, 2024-01-15)
Increased awareness of the importance of maintaining good health, physical activity, and proper nutrition is needed by people of all ages in the United States. The need for this type of educational programming is even greater for youth populations who are constantly growing and developing. Virginia Cooperative Extension’s Master Food Volunteer and 4-H Youth Development programs make the perfect partnership for reaching youth populations in health education. The Master Food Volunteer training program currently does not include training for volunteers on how to work with youth populations. Research shows that quality volunteer training is essential for volunteer program impact and longevity. The purpose of this project is to create “working with youth” training resources for the Master Food Volunteer training program. The project developed a Working with Youth chapter for the Master Food Volunteer training notebook and an online module for the Canvas training website. The focus of the training resources is on the essential elements of youth development, understanding children, tips for working with youth populations, and potential ideas for health-related programming and partnerships. These resources are designed to be utilized by Master Food Volunteers and Virginia Cooperative Extension employees working with these volunteers. It is the goal of this project that increased youth food safety, nutrition, and health related programming will take place thus improving the overall health of the communities served.
Common Pumpkin Diseases in Virginia: A Diagnostic Guide
Taylor L Sermersheim; Keri C. Fulp; Steven L. Rideout; David B. Langston; Laura K. Strawn (Virginia Tech, 2023-12-11)
Effects of SOURCE, a Novel Foliar-Applied Chemistry, on Plant Parasitic Nematode Populations and Soybean Production in the Delmarva Region
Aimee Burke (Virginia Tech, 2023-12-21)
Plant parasitics pose a unique challenge to soybean producers despite crop rotation, variety resistance, and use of chemicals. Soybean nematodes cause an average 10-15% loss in yield with reductions being much higher in fields with high nematode population. Soils with low organic matter as is found in much of the Mid-Atlantic region can create challenges to managing nematode populations, even with crop rotation. With hybrid selection, this may eventually give way to heavy selection pressure that can create nematodes that can evolve resistance to cultivars over time. Chemical use of nematicides such as seed treatments can be costly and can negatively impact people and the microbiome. This project focused on the impact of using SOURCE, a novel NSS (novel synthetic strigolactone) on nematode populations, soybean plant health, and yield in the Mid-Atlantic for the 2023 season. Trials were conducted in two locations in the Delmarva area identified as having high nematode populations. Replicated treatments with and without NSS were mapped and sampled for nematodes. Soil samples were collected in treatment strips throughout the season to measure nematode populations and species variation. Additionally, yield data was collected in test strips to determine the effect of NSS on yield. Results showed no significant differences of nematode populations between treated and untreated, however the large plot trial did have an increase of 4.7 bu/A in the treated area versus the untreated. Future large and small plots trials should be considered with the addition of tissue samples taken in season.

Browse

Recent Submissions