Soil Microbiology and Root Diseases

The mission of the Soil Microbiology and Root Diseases Committee is to provide a forum where practitioners and researchers, including faculty, graduate students, and postdoctoral associates, from academia, government, and industry, can discuss contemporary issues in soil microbiology, root pathology and health, and recent advances and challenges in the management of soilborne plant pathogens and the diseases they cause. We also endeavor to serve APS and the scientific community at large by providing a platform for communication among researchers and educators, and coordinating efforts to inform public policy decisions as they relate to our field. The Soil Microbiology and Root Diseases Committee will promote dialog among its members about contemporary issues in soil microbiology and root pathology and health, emerging diseases, and recent advances and challenges in the management of soilborne pathogens and the diseases they cause. Furthermore, we will create awareness among our members about newly developed field, laboratory, and data analysis protocols. These discussions will form the basis for presenting and disseminating information to the broader phytopathological community and beyond through: 1) symposia and special sessions at the APS annual meeting; 2) topical meetings, webinars, short courses, and workshops dealing with various issues of importance to the community; 3) web-based, multimedia, and print educational resources and materials targeted to plant pathologists, farmers/growers, and the general public.