Extension Plant Pathology at Michigan State University provides leadership in the development and implementation of innovative, sustainable, and effective disease management strategies that have been crucial to the profitability of our agricultural commodities and industries. Field and laboratory studies seek to understand and find solutions to diseases caused by endemic plant pathogens (e.g. Fusarium head blight of wheat and fire blight of apple) and those resulting from new and emerging pathogens (e.g. Phytophthora species on a wide range of crops). Our research serves as the basis for our educational extension programs that include field, county, and regional meetings, demonstration trials, and electronic communication serving Michigan growers, county agents, and consultants. In addition, information generated by our research is pertinent to other states within our growing region and those areas in the U.S. and throughout the world that have comparable climatic conditions and cropping systems. Plant pathology faculty work directly with, for example, commodity groups, growers, urban clientele, consultants, government agencies, and other researchers and extension specialists to help solve problems through research and extension programs for the state of Michigan. Plant Pathologists also work closely with the Interdisciplinary Diagnostic Clinic to assist in providing prompt and accurate diagnoses and recommendations. Extension Plant Pathology has also provided the leadership in the development of strategic plans for the carrot and asparagus industries and participated in the grape and blueberry planning sessions. These plans involved the input of university, county, industry and government.