The first 2005 detection of soybean rust (Phakopsora pachyrhizi) was found in Pasco County, Florida.  This find represents the southern-most detection of the fungus in Florida and yet another detection on kudzu (Pueraria montana var. lobata), a widespread weed throughout the southern United States.  There is great concern kudzu will perpetuate and facilitate the spread of soybean rust.  The Florida State Department of Agriculture is conducting extensive surveys for the pathogen.  Pasco County marks the 18th Florida County to report soybean rust.  

For the full story please visit:
http://www.dtnsoybeanrustcenter.com/index.cfm?show=10&mid=26&pid=33

***REVISED: Earlier post was in error...this was not the first detection of soybean rust on kudzu