Distance Diagnostics

The Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging System at the University of Tennessee, UT Extension will allow text based information and digital images to be submitted from county Extension offices for rapid diagnosis by resource professionals at the Plant and Pest Diagnostic Center, in Nashville. County Extension faculty are trained to submit plant disease or pest images and information using digital cameras, microscopes, computers and the internet. The system uses conventional software and hardware proven to be effective and reliable.

Imaging stations have been distributed geographically in county Extension offices across Tennessee. Additional stations will be placed in other counties as funding becomes available. Distance Diagnosis will reduce diagnostic turn-around time from an average of four days to one day when compared to sending physical specimens through postal mail. Digital images of plant disease, insect and weed pests can be uploaded to the Distance Diagnosis web page and diagnosed within one hour in emergency situations. Diagnostic responses will be provided on the internet, or by phone, FAX or email.