Root diseases of soybean are common in Minnesota, and evidence suggests that root disease and poor health are likely major factors driving soybean yields across much of the state. My research group and others have been addressing and advancing our knowledge of several specific root diseases as well as identifying the major root pathogens associated with soybean, but the fact remains that we have a poor understanding of how, when, and where root diseases and root health are influencing root structure and function and plant productivity. Not only are the pathogens difficult to work with, but roots and the effects of pathogens on roots and plants are very difficult to study.