Update:
1. A rapid screening tool was developed to identify specific genotypes of Cercospora sojina (Frogeye Leaf Spot) and Cercospora flagellaris – formerly kikcuhii, Cercospora Leaf Blight). This is based largely on the identification of two markers (two genes at two loci), as an outcome of the DNA sequencing work completed under this KPI. Also, work has progressed towards further specifying the unique strains/sub-species of Cercospora flagellaris, specifically to clarify the identify of which sub-species causes leaf blight symptoms and which causes the purple seed stain symptoms. This is an additional objective that came out of discussions at the project review meeting in October 2015. In the process, at least five genetically diverse genetic lineages have been identified for Cercospora flagellaris.
2. A uniform multi-location fungicide trial was established for 2015 and 2016 to stay updated on the most efficacious products for Frogeye and Cercospora Leaf Blight for each region, and also determine the extent of fungicide resistance and how to manage against it. Strobilurin fungicide resistant strains of Frogeye were prominent at most locations; however, these strains can be controlled with other fungicide chemistries. Also, the exact mutation in the pathogen causing Septoria Leaf Blight and responsible for fungicide resistance has been identified.
3. Of the 31 advanced breeding lines evaluated in the field in 2015, there were at least 5 lines that showed good genetic resistance to both Frogeye and Cercospora Leaf Blight. The 2016 field results are in the process of being analyzed. The Southern Illinois University breeding program for Frogeye is well underway and made initial crosses in 2016 from 5 P.I. lines previously identified as highly resistant. For 2016, a comprehensive variety trial system was established in 15 locations in 7 states to evaluate commercial varieties and advanced breeding material showing promise for genetic resistance to Frogeye and Cercospora Leaf Blight. Results are forthcoming. This type of cooperative testing program is made possible by the leveraged funding of the Midsouth Soybean Board that contributes directly to this USB project.
4. Though the 2015 field test to determine the yield effect of Soybean Vein Necrosis Virus (SVNV) was not successful, the 2016 field test results look much more promising, particularly since the researchers were able to develop distinct colonies of SVNV-infected thrips versus non-infected thrips. This development will also help distinguish the yield effect of thrips themselves as opposed to the effect of the disease SVNV.
5. An additional KPI/Objective was added to the project proposal for FY2016: To determine the control of Cercospora Leaf Blight (CLB) with foliar applications of minor elements and to develop a disease screening protocol. The 2016 field study initially indicated that at least one product containing iron reduced CLB and that the field and lab results appear to be matching up. In the development of screening tool, results have so far been successful to utilize the toxin produced by CLB (cercosporin) to successfully inoculate plants (cut petioles) and produce symptoms.
View uploaded report 
Progress has been made to develop novel sources of resistance to Frogeye Leaf Spot. For the first time, resistance sources to Cercospora Leaf Blight have been initially identifed. New means to screen for these two major diseases are under development to enhance the breeding for resistance. Methods to detect fungicide resistance of Frogeye strains to foliar fungicides has been determined, that in turn, has led to establishment of a geographic map for incidence of fungicide resistance. Foliar fungicides are screened annually for efficacy against all major foliar diseases and published widely.