ISHS Acta Horticulturae 695: I International Symposium on Tomato Diseases
IMPLEMENTATION OF A NATIONAL TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION PROGRAM FOR FIRST DETECTORS |
| Authors: | A. Hodges, M.T. Momol, G. Wisler |
| Keywords: | biosecurity, exotic pests, National Plant Diagnostic Network, NPDN, select agents |
| Abstract:
Despite extensive interceptions of federal (USDA-APHIS) and state department of agriculture regulatory agencies, numerous exotic pest introductions occur every year. Exotic plant pests such as plant pathogens, arthropods, mollusks, nematodes, and weeds are often introduced accidentally through global trade and travel patterns. Nonetheless, agriculture and our U.S. food supply is also a potential target for agricultural bioterrorism. This became even more evident after the events of 9-11. To enhance national agricultural security, the USDA-CSREES formed a network linking diagnostic labs, primarily land grant universities, across the U.S., the National Plant Diagnostic Network (NPDN) (http://npdn.ppath.cornell.edu/). The mission of the NPDN focuses on the early detection of exotic pests, and this is primarily accomplished through a network of educated First Detectors. First Detectors are individuals such as county extension agents, crop consultants, growers, Master Gardeners, and others involved in plant management systems. First Detectors are the people most likely to initially encounter an exotic pest introduction in the field. The NPDN educational training program provides First Detectors with information on the importance of the early detection of exotic pests, pest monitoring techniques, specific information on high-risk pests of concern, proper sample submission procedures, and various other optional training material. Following training, Detectors receive a certificate of completion and are enrolled in a listserv to receive up-to-date pest notices. | |
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