Project Number: 5368-21220-002-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Jun 20, 2006
End Date: Jun 01, 2008

Objective:
The sugarbeet project at Kimberly, ID is focused on developing elite germplasm with enhanced disease resistance and agronomic qualities and improving disease Management options. We will evaluate, characterize, and use available genetic resources to identify resistance genes of interest. Public molecular markers linked to these new sources of resistance will be established. New sources of resistance will be incorporated into elite germplasm using traditional crossing techniques with the aid of molecular markers. Germplasm will be enhanced through the identification of novel sources of disease resistance, crossing to incorporate the new sources of resistance, and the development of markers for genes of interest to facilitate crossing and selection. To ensure that the resistance genes established for a particular pathogen are effective against all strains of the pathogen, population studies will be conducted on root rot organisms. Isolates of root rot organisms will be characterized to establish the extent of variation in the population and improve screening procedures and disease management options. We will also determine the effects of Beet necrotic yellow vein virus and Beet severe curly top virus on sugarbeet post-harvest quality and storability. The germplasm and information generated will lead to enhanced disease resistance and improved disease management options for stakeholders and advance our understanding of these disease problems in the scientific community.

Approach:
Establish a sugarbeet research program in genetics and plant pathology using classical and molecular approaches to improve the sugarbeet genetics pool and disease management options, and enhance crop quality, productivity, yield, and profitability of production while reducing resource inputs such as fertilizer, irrigation and energy. FY06 program increase $650,628 (NTL).