2008 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416) The objective of this cooperative research project is to evaluate a rain monitoring system for Asia Soybean Rust (Phakopsora pachyrhizi). Detecting urediniospores of Asian Soybean Rust in rain samples has the potential to be a key element in a decision support system for managing this disease. The objectives are to monitor the aerial movement of the Asian Soybean rust fungal spores by monitoring rain samples using a real-time PCR assay. Rain samples from NADP/NTN sites will be filtered to collect particulate matter containing rust spores which will be sent to the CDL for analysis. Data will be provided for evaluating forecasting models and risk assement. Cooperator PI: David Gay, University of Illinois. 1b.Approach (from AD-416) The goals of this project are:. 1)filter particulate matter (urediniospores) from rain samples collected at selected NADP/NTN sites in major U.S. soybean production areas,. 2)analyze filter particulate matter for Asian Soybean Rust using a Real-time PCR assay, and. 3)provide the data to the USDA-CSREES PIPE program for evaluating forecast models of Asian Soybean Rust. 3.Progress Report Rain samples were collected from 75 sites across the central and eastern U.S. corresponding with regions in which soybean is grown. Samples were collected from May to November 2007. Particulate matter containing fungal spores were filtered from the rain samples and sent to the CDL for analysis. These samples provided the basis of a national monitoring program for Asian soybean rust fungus which demonstrated that rain deposited Asian soybean rust spores throughout this region during 2007. Regular emails and telephone calls were used to monitor progress of this project.