Chuanxue Hong

Synopsis:

The overall goal of Dr. Hong's research is to develop science-based sustainable solutions to plant biosecurity, water and environmental sustainability in a changing climate. 

Description:

The Hong laboratory strives to develop a better understanding of pathogen aquatic biology, microbial ecology and recycled water quality dynamics in irrigation and precipitation runoff containment basins, improve agricultural water health, and convert agricultural wastes to invaluable resources. The laboratory endeavors to understand the etiology, pathogen biology and epidemiology of new and emerging diseases such as sudden oak death (ramorum blight), boxwood blight and develop immediate and long-term solutions to these diseases. The laborotory's current projects include: 

• Integrated management of zoosporic pathogens and irrigation water quality for a sustainable green industry: Funded by USDA-National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) – Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI), this project is a joint effort with seven institutions and in partnership with the ornamental horticulture industry across the nation. This project focuses on development of protocols to help farmers capture and reuse runoff water for irrigation without recycling and spreading plant pathogens by better system designs (www.irrigation-pathogens.info).
• Understanding pathogen biology & epidemiology to enhance mitigation strategies for boxwood blight: Supported by the 2014 Farm Bill via USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services, this project is a joint effort with Oregon State University. 
• Biologically-based new mitigation strategies for boxwood blight: Supported by the 2014 Farm Bill via USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services, this project is a joint effort with colleagues in North Carolina State University and Oregon State University.
• Enhancing boxwood blight mitigation through innovation, integration and education: Supported by the 2014 Farm Bill via USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services, this project is a joint effort with colleagues in Cornell University, Hood College, North Carolina State University, Oregon State University, and USDA ARS.
• Aetiology of emerging ornamental crop diseases: This project, supported by VA Agricultural Experiment Station, addresses the emerging needs of the horticulture industry for disease control solutions.