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Aeroallergen Related Air Quality Monitoring, Organic Waste Management and Composting, and Herb Research Research Team Area: Environmental Science and Plant Science Project/Program Location: Lincoln University at Jefferson City Objectives: Monitoring aeroallergens in Jefferson City area and serving the public by providing early warnings and forecast of aeroallergen peaks and allergy preventive tips Reducing LU waste stream and improving environment qualities Investigating natural compounds of insect deterrent potential in herbs Summary: Monitoring aeroallergen related air quality has been conducted at LU Cooperative Research since 2003 and 2004. Major seasonal pollens were identified and counted. Patterns of pollen shading were established and used for pollen forecast and releasing early warning before pollen peaks. LU compost facility was funded by a MO DNR grant and constructed at LU Busby Farm in 2004. This facility is currently under management of Cooperative Research and is handling average 600 Lb daily food waste generated from LU food services and cafeteria during university sessions. LU Composting operation demonstrated an efficiency food waste management with less than two hours daily operation time and producing compost of premium quality. Interests on natural compounds of insect deterrent potential in herbs has lead to studies on essential oil and chemical analysis of herbs. Insect resistant herbs were identified and extracts of these plants were obtained. Several fractions of extracts were tested for positive biological activities. Focus will be placed on compounds present in large quantities for further isolation and bioassays. Impact: Aeroallergen monitoring and forecast has had positive impact on public health education and allergy and asthma prevention. Food waste composting project has improved LU waste management and strengthened teaching, research, and extension programs in Environmental Science. Herb research also strengthened LU teaching programs and analytical capability at Cooperative Research. Natural compounds isolated from targeted herbs will have potential pharmaceutical benefits to protect the public from undesirable insect bites and positive impact on agricultural pest management. For More Information, Contact: Hwei-Yiing Johnson, Ph.D., Principal Research Investigator Lincoln University Cooperative Research 308 Foster Hall Jefferson City, MO 65102-0029 Phone: (573) 681-5533 Fax: (573) 681-5955