Damon Smith
Associate Professor
Phone: 608-286-9706
E-mail: damon.smith@wisc.edu
495 Russell Labs
1630 Linden Dr
Madison, WI 53706
CV
Education
- Ph.D., 2007, North Carolina State University – Plant Pathology
- M.S., 2004 North Carolina State University – Plant Pathology
- B.S., 2001, State University of New York (SUNY) Geneseo – Biology
Research
My research interests focus on the biology, epidemiology, and management of field crop diseases. The information generated from my research directly services my extension program. This information is used to develop an integrated approach to managing diseases of field commodities using improved host resistance, cultural management, and chemical control techniques. My research also focuses on developing and improving disease forecasting systems that can be used to accurately advise fungicide applications. Reducing or eliminating fungicide applications through the use of integrated disease management is profitable for the grower, and is a positive step toward sustainability in 21st century agriculture.
My extension efforts focus on generating, evaluating, and disseminating solutions to many of the disease problems associated with field crops such as soybeans, corn, wheat and alfalfa. Information and potential solutions to disease problems are evaluated using applied research. Field studies include station and on-farm research to test epidemiological models, conduct pesticide evaluations, and improve the practical and biological understanding of various plant pathogens. I work closely with county extension agents, crop advisors, agribusinesses, and commodity groups to improve the management of the major diseases affecting field crops. I am responsible for developing disease management fact sheets, outreach courses, and electronic education resources. To learn more about Field Crops Pathology in Wisconsin, click on the link below.
Courses Taught
- FISC 142: Identification and Management of Agrnonomic Pests
Publications
Books Edited
- A Farmer’s Guide to Soybean Diseases. 2016. Daren Mueller, Kiersten Wise, Adam Sisson, Damon Smith, Edward Sikora, Carl Bradley, and Alison Robertson (eds.). APS Press, St. Paul, MN. 155 pgs.
- A Farmer’s Guide to Corn Diseases. 2016. Kiersten Wise, Daren Mueller, Adam Sisson, Damon Smith, Carl Bradley, and Alison Robertson (eds.). APS Press, St. Paul, MN. 160 pgs.