David M Obenland (Dave)

Research Plant Physiologist

Dr. Obenland (Ph.D. Plant Physiology, Iowa State University, 1990) has been with ARS since 1993, initially with the Postharvest Quality and Genetics Research Unit and currently a part of the Crop Protection and Quality Research Unit.  One area of Dr. Obenland's research is devoted to ensuring that new and upcoming chemical and non-chemical alternatives to methyl bromide fumigation do not adversely harm fruit quality.  The major emphasis at present is in evaluating and finding methods to preserve fruit quality following low temperature phosphine fumigation of stone fruit and citrus.  Another area of research deals with finding means to optimize fruit flavor both at harvest and following postharvest storage, utilizing sensory panel evaluations and analytical analyses of fruit chemical components to determine those factors most important to flavor.  Currently, a promising means of preventing off-flavor development in mandarin oranges by altering current postharvest temperature management practices is being evaluated. Dr. Obenland has authored or co-authored 33 peer-reviewed publications, and 43 other publications, including invited book chapters, proceeding papers, and published technical reports.