FHB Infection Rates Lowest Since 1998

REGINA - Feb 3/03 - SNS -- Dry conditions across much of Saskatchewan during the 2002 growing season limited the severity of fusarium head blight (FHB) in the province's cereal grain crops. This year's survey found infection rates stood at just 0.2% in durum wheat, 0.8% in common wheat, and 0.6% in barley. These 2002 levels were the lowest since the FHB survey began in 1998.

"It should be noted that, while the levels of Fusarium graminearum were not higher this year - because of the dry conditions - it was still present," says Penny Pearse, plant disease specialist, Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization (SAFRR).

"As farmers know, the most important fungal species causing FHB is F. graminearum, because it can result in the greatest yield loss and is responsible for the production of toxin in the grain. It's not surprising that it is still present, since it is well established in the eastern regions of the province, where the moist and warm conditions required for FHB often occur."

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