Tar Spot Fungus Spreads Across US Corn Belt, 13 States Confirm Infected Crops

The US corn industry is facing a significant threat from a fungal disease known as tar spot, which has been confirmed in 13 of the top 18 corn-growing states. The disease, caused by the fungus Phyllachora maydis, was first detected in the US in 2015 and has since spread rapidly across the Corn Belt. Tar spot is a highly infectious disease that can cause significant yield losses, with some fields experiencing losses of up to 50%. The disease is characterized by small, black spots on the leaves and husks of corn plants, which can eventually lead to defoliation and reduced ear size. Farmers in affected states are being advised to take precautions to prevent the spread of the disease, including using fungicides and practicing good crop rotation. The 13 states that have confirmed tar spot-infected crops are Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. The disease has been particularly severe in Illinois, where it is estimated that over 1 million acres of corn have been infected. The impact of tar spot on the US corn industry could be significant, with some estimates suggesting that it could lead to losses of up to $1 billion. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) is working closely with state agricultural officials and farmers to monitor the spread of the disease and develop strategies for controlling it. Researchers are also working to develop new fungicides and other treatments that can help to combat the disease. In addition to the economic impact, tar spot also poses a threat to food security, as corn is a critical crop for both human consumption and animal feed. The disease has also been detected in several other countries, including Mexico and Brazil, highlighting the need for international cooperation to address the issue. Farmers and agricultural officials are urging the public to be aware of the risks posed by tar spot and to take steps to prevent its spread. This includes avoiding the movement of infected plant material and equipment, and reporting any suspected cases of the disease to the authorities. The USDA has also established a website and hotline for farmers to report suspected cases of tar spot and to access information and resources on the disease. As the situation continues to evolve, it is likely that further measures will be taken to control the spread of tar spot and mitigate its impact on the US corn industry. The use of drones and other technologies is also being explored as a means of monitoring and controlling the disease. In the meantime, farmers and agricultural officials are bracing themselves for what could be a difficult growing season, with the potential for significant losses and disruptions to the food supply chain. The long-term impact of tar spot on the US corn industry remains to be seen, but it is clear that it poses a significant threat to the livelihoods of farmers and the food security of the nation. As such, it is essential that all stakeholders work together to address the issue and find effective solutions to combat the disease. The situation is being closely monitored by agricultural officials and researchers, who are working to develop new strategies and treatments to control the spread of tar spot. In conclusion, the spread of tar spot across the US Corn Belt is a significant concern for the agricultural industry, and it is essential that all stakeholders take immediate action to prevent its spread and mitigate its impact.

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