Everglades Research and Education Center

Dr. Monica Navia-Urrutia

Assistant Professor - Plant Pathology

My research and extension program focuses on integrating strategies for the effective management of diseases of sugarcane, rice, and commercial sod grown in the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) and surrounding areas. My program aims to provide growers and other stakeholders with research-based, practical, and cost-effective solutions that meet their needs.

My research program (40% FTE) will focus on developing in-field pathogen detection assays for rapid and accurate diagnosis and surveillance, developing predictive and decision support tools, evaluating the efficacy of novel chemicals for disease control, and understanding pathogen-host interactions to support the selection of cultivars and varieties with resistance to diseases. Through my extension program (60% FTE), I will educate and support my clientele in the detection and diagnosis of diseases. I will provide up-to-date knowledge and recommendations about the rational use of chemicals and the performance of varieties against diseases. By encouraging the integration of research-based disease management strategies, I seek growers to make changes in practices and that these changes impact the sustainability of their enterprises and the environment.

Research

Extension

Publications