Federal Grant Award Summary

Iowa State University of Science and Technology received a $297,515 Project Grant award from the Institute of Bioenergy, Climate, and Environment under the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI, CFDA 10.310) program, effective May 1, 2026 through October 31, 2028. The project delivers field-based research, economic analysis, and extension services addressing fire blight disease management in Midwest apple and pear orchards. Recognizing the urgent need to reduce reliance on streptomycin antibiotics due to resistance concerns and regulatory restrictions, the project evaluates alternative fire blight control strategies specifically adapted to Midwest growing conditions and smaller-scale orchard operations, while assessing impacts on tree health, productivity, and fruit yield.

The primary deliverables include field trial data comparing alternative disease management programs, economic cost-benefit analyses of different control strategies, and practical budget tools designed for apple and pear growers managing orchards of varying sizes. Research findings and recommendations will be disseminated through extension programs including field days, workshops, webinars, and educational materials in written and video formats. The project's integrated approach combines scientific research with grower-focused outreach to provide Midwest producers with science-based alternatives that enhance orchard resilience and support profitable, sustainable fruit production while reducing antibiotic dependency.