(Photo by Tyler Jones)
A new initiative aims to strengthen the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences’ (UF/IFAS) ability to respond rapidly when a new invasive pest or plant disease threatens. Edward “Gilly” Evans, director of the UF/IFAS Tropical Research and Education Center (TREC), launched the Challenge 250 initiative. Named in recognition of the nation’s 250th anniversary, it aims to raise $250,000 in dedicated funding for rapid-response agricultural research and outreach.
The goal is to create flexible, readily available resources that allow scientists to quickly investigate, assess and respond to emerging pest and disease threats before they escalate into widespread problems.
“That early action can help protect growers, safeguard ecosystems and ensure that Florida’s agriculture and horticulture industries remain viable for generations to come,” Evans said.
Located in Homestead, TREC is often on the front lines of identifying and addressing invasive species and plant disease threats entering Florida. The Sunshine State gets one to two new pests every month, and 75% of them make their way through South Florida.
“Homestead is often ground zero for invasive pests, making TREC a critical line of defense in the fight against emerging threats to our food security, nursery industry and natural resources,” said Evans.
Challenge 250 will complement existing research and Extension programs while helping to protect farms, nurseries, natural resources and the food system.
While Florida has robust monitoring programs and effective management strategies, responding quickly to a new pest or disease can be complicated by the traditional research funding process. Grants can take months to prepare, submit and approve at a time when rapid action is essential. Challenge 250 is designed to bridge that gap. The funds will allow TREC scientists to begin critical work immediately upon detection of a new invasive species. Their activities can include:
- Conducting diagnostics and surveillance
- Screening existing pesticides and biological controls
- Evaluating integrated pest management strategies
- Developing containment plans
- Convening subject-matter experts
- Delivering rapid educational workshops for growers and stakeholders
Researchers can also assess biorational and naturally derived products, cultural control practices and other environmentally responsible management tools while developing longer-term solutions. These early efforts provide critical information needed to build
comprehensive management programs and secure additional research support.
“By supporting Challenge 250, you’re helping protect growers, safeguard ecosystems and strengthen the resilience of Florida’s agriculture and horticulture industries for generations to come,” Evans said.
Danielle Cohen Higgins, who represents District 8 on the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners, will help launch Challenge 250 at the One Night in the Tropics annual TREC fundraiser on Nov. 7.
Source: UF/IFAS
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