Labex, a research exchange program between the U.S. and Brazil, is paying dividends.

The program, which allows for collaborations between Brazilian and USDA-Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists, started in 1998. It has made progress in the areas of integrated pest management, precision agriculture, soil science and genetic research.

One of the program's success stories is the progress made in combating stink bugs in soybeans. The team has already identified a pheromone blend to lure the bugs, allowing field monitoring so pesticide use can be narrowly targeted. The group has also produced an effective stink bug trap.

In addition, the researchers are working on genetic resistance in internal cattle parasites.

For more about this research, visit www.ars.usda.gov/is/AR/arc hive/dec01/labex1201.htm.