University of Idaho researchers will receive $579,000 in federal grants for five projects through the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences.
The funding was awarded through the Idaho State Department of Agriculture, which distributed approximately $1.9 million among 19 projects. The University of Idaho is finalizing agreements to accept its share.
Gustavo Teixeira received $149,000 to study sorgoleone as a treatment to prevent potato sprouting. Researchers will evaluate the compound through spraying and heated fogging.
Kasia Duellman received $141,000 to investigate biological treatments for potato virus Y. Duellman, a University of Idaho Extension specialist, said the disease is difficult to control and that relying only on insecticides can worsen it in some years.
James Woodhall and Emily Bedwell received $80,000 for bean-irrigation field trials in Kimberly and Parma. The trials will use soil-moisture monitoring technology.
The Idaho-Eastern Oregon Onion Committee received $70,000 for an onion-irrigation project led by Woodhall. Researchers will compare drip, furrow and overhead irrigation systems.
Jenny Knerr and Joan Campbell received $139,000 for research into commercial huckleberry cultivation. Knerr, a University of Idaho research associate, said the project will examine ways to improve huckleberry production as a high-value specialty crop.
The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service administers the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. The agency approved $86.6 million nationwide for fiscal year 2026.