Plant pathogens of greatest concern and criteria to identify these threats

Crop BiosecurityThreat Rating Using Analytical Hierarchy MethodsMarch 15, 2006Douglas G. LusterUSDA, ARS, Foreign Disease- Weed Science Research UnitFt. Detrick MDEmphasis on Biosecurity• Protect all natural and agricultural resources-Australian/NZ Model, • Invasive Species - Pres. Executive Order– Weeds– Insects and other animals– Pathogens!• USDA-APHIS - Programs– Offshore Pest Information System (OPIS)– Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey (CAPS)– Ports Inspection• HSPD-9 language:“The United States agriculture and food systems are vulnerable todisease, pest, or poisonous agents that occur naturally, are unintentionally introduced, or are intentionally delivered by acts of terrorism.”Vulnerabilities in U.S.Agriculture • Imported Commodities– Seed– Produce– Animal Feed grain & hay• Field Production• Storage– Local– Regional• Transportation • Export CommoditiesWhat to Protect? • Defend against all pathogens, pests and weeds? • Base on Economic value and set threshold?– “Death by a thousand cuts” vs. “Disregards threats under $10B”– “Agricultural losses are solely economic”– National vs. State InterestsUSDA Major Crop Values, 2005(crops with values > $1B)Crop Value of Production (Millions of Dollars)Corn for Grain 21,040.7Soybeans for Beans 16,927.7All Hay, Baled 12,491.3Wheat, all 7,140.4Cotton 5,517.1Potatoes 2,903.1Grapes 3,013.4Citrus, all 2,389.3Tobacco 1,053.4Rice 1,789.2Apples 1,786.7Lettuce, Head 1,982 ...