Why are disease surveys important? Surveys are conducted by pathologists to monitor the distribution and importance of key endemic pests and record the presence or absence of new or exotic diseases. DAFF Qld has identified new strains of the pathogens that cause Fusarium and Verticillium wilt, two boll rots and reniform nematode. The impact of these findings on cotton production varies. Early detection is important so that management strategies can be implicated as soon as possible.