Links
First Detector Program
Funded by U.S. Department of Agriculture NIFA and APHIS, the First Detector program promotes the early detection of invasive, exotic plant pathogens, arthropods, nematodes, and weeds. Implementation of the First Detector Program occurs primarily through partnering Land Grant University members and National Plant Diagnostic Network laboratories. More information about the Program, including how to become a registered First Detector and how to report pests is availalble on our training website.
Don’t Move Firewood
‘Don’t Move Firewood’ was developed by The Nature Conservancy building on conversations under the auspices of the Continental Dialogue on Non-Native Forest Insects and Diseases. The Continental Dialogue is a group of organizations and individuals that cultivate and catalyze collaborative action among diverse interests to abate the threat to North American forests from non-native pests.
Hungry Pests
Hungry Pests is the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s signature outreach initiative to raise public awareness about the invasive pest threat. The pests targeted by the Hungry Pests initiative are federally regulated invasive species whose introduction into the United States and spread within the country is assisted by the activities of the general public. These pests have the ability to cause significant harm to U.S. agricultural and environmental resources. Through the Hungry Pests website and outreach materials, the public can learn how to Leave Hungry Pests Behind.
Plant Heroes
The Plant Heroes are for young adults who share a love of nature and interest in science. The American Public Gardens Association heard about their passion and invited them to join together as a "super team" to detect and combat bugs and diseases that harm plants and ecosystem health. The Plant Heroes scout for these threats and report suspicious sightings to their county extension or local forester, who contacts officials, provides mission details and scientific supplies in order to defeat the bad bugs and diseases.
