Plant health: How diagnostic networks and interagency partnerships protect plant systems from pests and pathogens

Abstract

Early detection and rapid response are crucial in any effort to reduce the risk of new and emerging biological threats to crops and other plant resources. This underscores the importance of having the necessary diagnostic expertise, infrastructure and resources in place. Three programs - the National Plant Diagnostic Network, the National Clean Plant Network and the Citrus Clonal Protection Program - illustrate how accurate and rapid diagnosis plays a critical role in providing healthy plants for growers and in securing production systems for food and fiber. These three programs depend on statewide, regional and national networking among university, state and federal scientists, regulatory officials and industry members to help mitigate the impacts of plant pests and diseases.