Most agricultural systems in the Northeast rely on pesticides to ensure high yields and profits, but pesticides can pose risks to essential pollinators and environmental health. To reduce reliance on pesticides, scientists are exploring ways to harness natural plant defenses, such as emitting chemicals that slow insect feeding, inhibit infections, call beneficial insects to their aid, or warn other plants.
Researchers from 17+ land-grant universities are collaborating to better understand these chemically-mediated interactions, find ways to enhance natural plant defenses, and improve the economic and environmental sustainability of crop production.
Source: Multistate Research Fund Impacts Program
Read the full impact statement.
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