The Grain Research Program (GRP) team (Dr Mahlane Godfrey Kgatle, Carlynn Jacobs, Vinolia Danki and Sikelela Buthelezi) embarked on a field trip to survey for ear rots at maize farms across the Eastern Cape Province from 29 May to 3 June. Regions visited includes Cofimvaba (Mthingwevu and Qombolo), Ugie, Upper Tabase, Mveso, Qunu, Qokolweni, Cedarville, Kokstad and Matatiele.

The purpose of the trip was to screen for pest and diseases on various maize and soybean farms in the region, to complete disease scoring and evaluation of maize ears and to collect diseased material from various (communal, small-holder and commercial) farms in the region.

We would like to thank all the coordinators (Mr Luke Collier of Grain SA, Ms Yondela Diko, Zandile Cewu and Ms Sisipho of Ukhanyo Farmer Development) for linking us with the farmers and the farmers for allowing access to survey on their grain farms.