Sky is the limit for new pest and pathogen sampling technology

The five-year iMapPESTS project is using the latest in-field technology to rapidly and accurately monitor and report on airborne pests and pathogens. In this podcast, South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) researcher Rohan Kimber discusses that the project has achieved so far and what opportunities exist for this in-field technology.

iMapPESTS is a $21 million dollar research, development and extension (RD&E) endeavour funded by the Australian Federal Government through the Rural R&D for Profit Program, as well as investment from all seven plant industry Research and Development Corporations (RDCs), and in-kind contributions from national and international partner organisations including, SARDI, Agriculture Victoria and Rothamsted Research (UK), to name a few.

The seven plant industry RDCs involved in this project are Hort Innovation, Grains Research and Development Corporation, Sugar Research Australia, Cotton Research and Development Corporation, Wine Australia, AgriFutures Australia, and Forest and Wood Products Australia.

Contact

Rohan Kimber, SARDI
Rohan.Kimber@sa.gov.au

Useful resources

• 2020 Adelaide Update paper - iMapPESTS - Sentinel surveillance for agriculture
• iMapPESTS website
• iMapPESTS Sentinel units set to enhance management of airborne pests and diseases