2008 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416) The general objective of this cooperative research project is to solve production associated problems that are most limiting or threatening to the viability or profitability of pecan (Carya illinoinensis) husbandry in the desert environment of the southwestern United States. 1b.Approach (from AD-416) Improved production tools anad strategies will be developed based on field and laboratory based studies. Commercial orchards will be used to assess alternate bearing, and nutritional (focusing on N, Zn, and Mn) factors affecting nut yields and profitability. Data will be integrated with existing knowledge and art to devise new or improved horticultural management tools that solve production problems of importance to southwestern U.S. farmers. Efforts will include foliar based standards for mineral nutrients, improving soil management strategies, and mineral nutrition associated problems. 3.Progress Report This project is related to Objective 1 of this in-house project: Development of tools and approaches facilitating environmentally sound and profitable cultivation via acquisition of understanding of alternate bearing, nutmeat yield, and crop retention. A multiple year study on development of practical orchard methods to correct tree zinc deficiency by soil application of Zn was continued. Zinc uptake from alkaline soils is a major problem. Several different Zn sources were applied via soil banding, with subsequent monitoring of tree canopy nutrition. MONITORING: Progress and activities were monitored via one site visit, one meeting, and several phone calls and emails.