Project Number: 1275-21220-225-15
Project Type: Nonfunded Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Dec 15, 2006
End Date: Dec 15, 2011

Objective:
To develop a liaison between research and industrial interests to facilitate the development and implementation of a systems approach to control major diseases of cacao. The systems approach to disease control envisioned by this agreement will promote the development of sustainable crop production strategies.

Approach:
The World Cocoa Foundation actively promotes sustainable cacao production through economic and social development and environmental conservation in cacao growing communities. The project will emphasize the coordination of research approaches and attempt to promote disease control by incorporating bio-control strategies, cultural practices, and induction of disease resistance in cacao to capitalize on the genetic makeup of the cacao genome. The agreement will promote international partnerships and cooperation with the USDA-ARS.