Fire Blight disease models include Cougarblight and MARYBLYT. Both Cougarblight and MARYBLYT monitor temperature (or degree days) in combination with some measure of leaf wetness.

Cougarblight is used predominantly in the Pacific Northwest and California and has been developed by Tim Smith, Chelan, Douglas and Okanogan County Area Extension Agent. Cougarblight is freely distributed as an Microsoft Excel® spreadsheet designed for use by anyone with average computer skills.

Description of Cougarblight
DOWNLOAD Cougarblight (Cougarblight Fire Blight Model Ver. 2000F.xls)

Decision Aid System (DAS)
The Decision Aid System (DAS) has been developed as a web-based Integrated Pest Management (IPM) tool by researchers at Washington State University for apple and pear growers and pest managers across the state. The DAS integrates local and regional weather information from multiple sources with Fire Blight disease model data. Utilizing current and forecast weather data along with existing and historical patterns of Fire Blight occurrence, the DAS provides localized real-time assessments for Fire Blight risk, an assessment for its potential up to 10 days in advance and recommended control treatments. The DAS is also capable of addressing other insect and disease models besides Fire Blight for apples and/or pears.

MARYBLYT is also a computer program, but is only available for purchase. MARYBLYT is generally used in apple and pear growing regions located in the upper midwest, the Northeast and mid-Atlantic region.

For further information on the MARYBLYT disease model contact Gary Lightner directly    

gary.lightner@thermofisher.com