Directions (external link to MapQuest.com)

Home Page: http://sparc.usda.gov/

Mission:
The Cotton Pathology Research Unit acquires fundamental and applied knowledge in order to manage the most important cotton diseases occurring throughout the U.S.A. (seedling diseases, wilt diseases, and nematodes). The Unit focuses on mechanisms of cotton resistance to diseases and nematodes, pathogen genetics and metabolites, and the biology of biocontrol organisms that are effective against cotton seedling diseases. The Unit expands and implements acquired knowledge by using it to: 1) identify new biocontrol agents and develop new strategies to formulate these agents; 2) genetically manipulate biosynthetic pathways in cotton to increase resistance and regulate the biosynthesis of terpenoids; 3) manage nematode populations in soil with lower nematicide rates; and 4) study genetic variability in soil borne pathogens to discover control methods.