Patent Number: 6274534
Docket Number: 22498
Serial Number: 9631551
Date Patented: 08/14/2001

Technology Description:   ARS scientists have developed a method for controlling kudzu, a weedy vine prevalent in the southern United States—covering more than 7 million acres of land.   The weed, originally introduced from Japan around the 1900s, is present from Florida to New York, westward to central Oklahoma and Texas.  It is spreading about 120,000 acres a year, causing severe agricultural and environmental losses due to reduced land productivity.  It results in $500 million a year in control efforts, damage and lost forest productivity.  ARS researchers discovered that a spray formulation of the fungus Myrothecium verucarria is effective in controlling this weed.  In greenhouse studies and small field trials, the fungal spray controlled 90-100 percent of kudzu plants.  This bioherbicide can be quickly and inexpensively produced, and is effective without needing expensive or toxic chemical enhancements or additions.  ARS's invention is an effective alternative to chemical herbicides.  ARS’s bioherbicide effectively kills kudzu weeds under varying physical and environmental conditions.    ARS is seeking a commercial partner in the private sector, with expertise in weed management or fermentation technology to pursue EPA registration and commercialize this technology for controlling this exotic invasive pest.  There is vast commercial potential for this bioherbicide, since kudzu can grow up the sides of buildings, along fences, on telephone poles, roadside signs, homes, and in sensitive natural habitats.    Reference:   Please refer to USPN 6,274,534 (Docket #0224.98), “Control of Kudzu with a Fungal Pathogen Derived from Myrothecium verrucaria,” which issued on August 14, 2001.  Foreign rights are not available.   Inventors:   Clyde D. Boyette Southern Weed Science Research Stoneville, MS  38776-0350 Phone: (662)686-5217     Fax: (662)686-5422 dboyette@msa-stoneville.ars.usda.gov