Southern Ag Center

Plant Biosecurity is the protection of plants of economic importance from exotic pathogens or pests that could be introduced intentionally by an agro-terrorist, accidentally, or by natural means. This disruption of our agriculture would be catastrophic to the stability of both the U.S. and global economy. Preparedness is a critical strategy. To uncover potential threats to our nation's natural resources and agriculture, Southern University and Ag Center researchers are hosting "Frontline Biosecurity Symposium," a plant biosecurity symposium, November 6-7, at the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center. The symposium features presentations and demonstrations from scientists and professionals working on the front lines of research and monitoring of high consequence pathogens, insect pests, and invasive weeds that are dangerous to our nation’s agriculture and renewable natural resources. Participating universities and agencies:

Penn State University– Plant Pathology Dept.
LSU - Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology Dept.
Southern Plant Diagnostic Network/ Univ. of Florida
Southern University Urban Forestry Program
USDA ARS Foreign Disease- Weed Science Lab
USDA APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine
US Customs and Border Protection, Department of Homeland Security
Federal Bureau of Investigation ( FBI)
US Forest Service Civil Rights Unit
Louisiana Dept. of Agriculture and Forestry -Horticulture & Quarantine Programs

Professionals, students and citizens interested in the health and safety of plants are expected attend the symposium. Land-grant institutions have a long history of supporting national research efforts. Historically black 1890 land-grant institutions, like Southern University, are key components in training future scientists and professionals in plant biosecurity to counter the threat of agro-terrorism.

For more information on the Plant Biosecurity Symposium please contact: Dr. Daniel Collins at: 225-771-2262 ext. 268, fax: 771-4464 or via e-mail: Daniel_Collins@suagcenter.com. You may also visit the urban forestry website at: http://www.urbanforestry.subr.edu/biosecurity.htm

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