Registration Open for Aflatoxin Conference, NCGA Notes (9-8-06)

Registration is open for the 19th annual Multi-crop Aflatoxin/Fumonisin Elimination and Fungal Genomics Workshop, sponsored by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) and the Corn Producers Association of Texas.

The workshop, to be held Oct. 16-18 in Fort Worth, Texas, provides updated research on aflatoxin and fumonisin in corn, cotton, peanuts and tree nuts and is a good opportunity for producers to share what takes place in their farming operations.

“It’s a fairly technical session, and the leading edge research on preharvest control of aflatoxin will be shared with attendees,” said Scott Averhoff, chairman of NCGA’s Mycotoxin Task Force. “The sessions will range from basic genomic science to applied practical solutions. The workshop will give people a better understanding of how mycotoxins and fumonisin work and what can be done to control the fungi.”

Aflaxtoxin is a naturally occurring mycotoxin produced by various fungi that is produced by two types of mold: Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. A. flavus can be found in corn during drought and other stressful conditions that can promote the mold. Fumonisin, which is also known as fusarium ear rot and is produced by the mold Fusarium monoliforme, can be found in severe dry years.

Averhoff said the conference is a good opportunity for growers to meet researchers.

“Growers have a lot to offer the researchers,” he said. “It’s one thing for them to do the research and present the results at the conference. But it’s another thing for producers to explain to them in person the impact these toxins have on our farming operations and the crops.”

For registration information, visit www.texascorn.org.