Soybean Rust:
How could soybean rust spread to Pennsylvania?

The fungus that causes soybean rust is thought to be moved great distances by wind, and it is possible that soybean rust will be moved by wind from southern states where the fungus survives the winter into northern states each season. The timing of these migrations relative to soybean development will have a great impact on how we manage soybean rust here in PA. For example, if rust arrives early in a growing season, and weather conditions favor disease development we may have to use multiple fungicide applications to control the disease. However, if the disease is not moved into the area by wind currents, or arrives late in a growing season then no fungicides will be required.