They come in all shapes, sizes, and levels of impact, from deadly viruses to voracious beetles to overpowering weeds. Invasive species have become a problem of national significance that, according to recent estimates, costs the United States more than $100 billion each year.

Recognizing the many dangers invasive species pose to agricultural production, natural resources, and public health, OSU Extension is actively responding to diseases and pests threatening Ohio by implementing cutting-edge research and surveillance and empowering people with the latest information and tools to minimize their impact.
Two examples of this proactive approach are efforts directed against soybean rust and the emerald ash borer (EAB).

Although not yet found in Ohio, soybean rust could cost Ohio growers $270 million, a fifth of the crop’s annual value, even if it only caused a 20 percent yield loss. That’s why OSU Extension educators, plant pathologists, and agricultural engineers continue monitoring for the aggressive leaf fungus in the Buckeye State and constantly look for better ways to spray for the disease.
Monitoring efforts include the surveillance of dozens of sentinel plots established throughout Ohio as a first line of detection of soybean rust — 36 were already in place at the beginning of the 2006 growing season and more were planted following the Fourth of July. In another study, engineers determined which combination of sprayers and nozzles would be the most effective when spraying against the fungus.

Another serious invader is the EAB, an exotic insect from Asia that destroys native ash trees and could potentially obliterate one in every 10 trees in Ohio. OSU Extension has partnered with the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center, the Ohio Department of Agriculture, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to carry out various outreach efforts targeted at public officials, industry, homeowners, woodlot owners, and other key audiences.

One successful outreach effort was EAB Awareness Week, May 22–27. OSU Extension specialists, educators, and Master Gardeners helped raise awareness among Ohioans about the tree-killing beetle (which has been found in more than 20 Ohio counties) and provided them with the latest science-based information on how to protect and manage their trees and how to stop the spread of this devastating pest.

“When agencies come together on events such as EAB Awareness Week, the media and the public take notice and good results are achieved,” said OSU Extension Educator Amy Stone. “We each have something unique to bring to the table.”