Fire Blight Sampling
It is only possible to isolate the bacteria (Erwinia amylovora) from fresh, active lesions, where healthy tissue meets the diseased tissue - the lesion margin.
It is impossible to isolate fire blight bacteria from dead, dried out tissue.
The Lesion Margin
Collect samples that include about 3 inches of healthy tissue beyond the infected tissue, and include about 3 inches of infected tissue. Do not submit all the dead branch of the strike, this is often too long and can be cut back, as described, to 3 inches of infected tissue above 3 inches of healthy tissue.
If possible, refrigerate infected trees and strikes.
Protect samples from drying out prior to submitting them.
Do not collect entire branches or trees unless symptoms are unusual.
Please see the attached form for more information.
Fire Blight Sample Form (pdf; 226KB)
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Leading the Farm Team: Supervisory Skills for New Managers
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The transition from working alongside employees to supervising them can be challenging. This session explores the shift from individual contributor to supervisor and the mindset and skills needed to lead a team effectively. Participants will learn about the role of a supervisor, key leadership behaviors, and how to build trust and credibility with employees.
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