USDA announces $58.25 million for plant pest and disease study

People can help protect agricultural and natural resources by learning about invasive pests.
People can help protect agricultural and natural resources by learning about invasive pests. | File photo

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has allocated $58.25 million from the 2016 Farm Bill for 434 research projects on the prevention and spread of plant pests and diseases. 

"Through the Farm Bill, we are working with our partners and stakeholders to not only ensure the global competitiveness of our specialty crop producers but to fight back against the destruction caused by invasive pests," USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack said. "The projects and centers funded through this effort are helping to develop and put in place the strategies, methods and treatments that safeguard our crops, plants, and natural resources from invasive threats."

This year, there are many projects that are already guaranteed money, including old world bollworm (Helicoverpa Armigera) which received $420,725 to delimit the infestation in Puerto Rico and collect and study samples of the pest; and $470,004 for survey and response planning activities in Florida.

People can help protect agricultural and natural resources by learning about invasive pests and how to help prevent them through the APHIS Hungry Pests public outreach program.