Southern Region Plant Diagnostic Network, IPM PIPE 2007, KY Component

USDA has established a unified network ofpubJic agricultural institutions to identify and respond to high risk biological pathogens in the food and agricultural system. The core ofthe National Plant Diagnostic Network (NPDN) is 5 plant 'Hub' diagnostic laboratories dispersed strategically around the country. They maintain a two-way, secure communications network with other university and State Department ofAgriculture diagnostic laboratories throughout their respective regions. These 'Hub' diagnostic laboratories will be responsible for deploying . standardized diagnostic approaches for identification ofexotic and domestic pests and pathogens that are of biosecurity concern. A plant disease diagnostic database wiH include test procedures, experts, and identification data. These efforts supplement and enhance other initiatives and provide Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) hack-up and independent confirmation ofdiagnostic results.