A threat to corn crops is making its way northeast through the U.S.
Bacterial leaf streak has been confirmed in Illinois.
The University of Illinois says the bacteria was first found in the south and midwest and has now been found in nine states.
Suzanne Bissonnette, plant clinic director at U of I, points out leaf streak is a bacterial disease, which means fungicides aren't able to suppress or control it.
She says not much is known about the disease and that more research is needed.
In order to completely understand it, Bissonette feels a long term strategy must be developed to limit its impact.
U of I commercial ag educator Dennis Bowman suggests crop rotation and tillage should work in the short term.
The university notes the disease forms linear lesions between the veins of corn leaves and symptoms usually first appear lower down.
APHIS says it does not believe bacterial leaf streak presents any health risk to people or animals.
