This center will further USDA's mission of safeguarding U.S. borders against the arrival of nonnative plant pests and diseases. This partnership will speed the transfer and application of scientific discoveries for the benefit of American consumers, growers, importers and exporters. Among other things, center activities will focus on analyzing pest pathways into the United States and the distribution and spread of nonnative pests to other parts of the United States, as well as safeguarding against the introduction of these destructive pests and diseases. The Center for Plant Health will enable us to better determine risks and pathways of emerging pests, as well as facilitate agricultural trade.
Media are welcome to attend.