Source: CORNELL UNIVERSITY submitted to NRP
REGIONAL CENTER PLANT DIAGNOSTIC FACILITY
Sponsoring Institution
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Project Status
COMPLETE
Funding Source
OTHER GRANTS
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
0210791
Grant No.
2007-37620-18204
Cumulative Award Amt.
(N/A)
Proposal No.
2010-03571
Multistate No.
(N/A)
Project Start Date
Jul 1, 2007
Project End Date
Jun 30, 2012
Grant Year
2011
Program Code
[AA-G]- Homeland Security
Recipient Organization
CORNELL UNIVERSITY
(N/A)
ITHACA,NY 14853
Performing Department
PLANT PATHOLOGY
Non Technical Summary
In 2003, the U.S.Congress directed the USDA-CSREES to create national plant and animal health diagnostic networks to facilitate the rapid identification of unusual plant pests and pathogens and to ensure seamless communication of new discoveries to other diagnostic facilities and to regulatory authorities throughout the U.S. The National Plant Diagnostic Network (NPDN) was funded through a series of cooperative agreements with land grant universities and, in some cases, state departments of agriculture. The NPDN is comprised of five regions, each with a hub at a major land grant university in each region. In the Northeast, the regional center is at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. Other participating laboratories are at Rutgers University, Penn State University, West Virginia University and the Universities of Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station became a formal partner in the program in FY 2006-07. The purpose of this project is to enhance the security of the nation's agricultural sector by way of improved plant disease diagnosis and insect and weed identification capabilities in each state in Northeast Region and to foster effective communication among the partners.
Animal Health Component
100%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
(N/A)
Applied
100%
Developmental
(N/A)
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
2122410116085%
2142410116015%
Knowledge Area
212 - Pathogens and Nematodes Affecting Plants; 214 - Vertebrates, Mollusks, and Other Pests Affecting Plants;

Subject Of Investigation
2410 - Cross-commodity research--multiple crops;

Field Of Science
1160 - Pathology;
Goals / Objectives
The objectives of the Northeast Regional Network are: 1. To provide expertise and assistance in diagnosis of plant diseases and identification of insect pest and noxious weeds as needed by first detectors and others charged with surveying the regions landscape for inadvertent or purposeful introduction of foreign organisms. 2. To train first detectors how to identify suspicious events in the field and how to communicate their concerns and send samples to the proper authorities. 3. To ensure that all diagnoses and identifications are reported to the National Repository. 4. To support the broader goals of the National Network by service by serving on appropriate committees, and developing national training and communications systems.
Project Methods
Activities at both national and regional levels are guided by an overarching matrix developed during the inception of the NPDN in 2003. Output 1: Coordination and governance mechanisms. Personnel from the NEPDN will continue to represent the region at meetings where national policy is formulated. Of special concern for the coming year will be the accreditation of individual state labs to meet minimum standards for overall specimen receipt and processing. We will also soon receive a review of the NPDN from an independent panel of reviewers appointed by CSREES and will look to act on their suggestions for improvements in structure, governance, partnerships, and inter-agency communication. At the national level, NEPDN staff will also continue to provide leadership for the National Database, Diagnostics, and Website Committees and we will participate in development of a new plan of work for a new five-year cooperative agreement. At the regional level, we will host an annual meeting of our member states in mid-(fiscal) year to vet and solve problems encountered by members. We will also hold bi-monthly conference calls to ensure that all partners are acquainted with evolving policies and practices. Output 2: Educated/capable first detectors. Soybean rust, developing thus far slower than anticipated in the U.S. crop, is expected to increase dramatically in 2007-08 following earlier observations of rust buildup in the southern U.S. We anticipate the need to conduct several multi-site teleconferences to show and tell stakeholders about the progress of this disease. Output 3: Data Systems and Networking. Our state partners place high priority on gathering and entering data to the national databases. All members are trained in the mechanics of data entry and we expect to make at least 10,000 entries to the National Repository by June 2008. Our regional IT staff has worked closely with partners at Kansas State Univ. to develop a new and improved communications network and will continue to participate in the development and training as needed. Output 4: Functioning Diagnostic Systems. As chair of the Diagnostics Committee, the NEPDN Associate Director will organize monthly conference calls and at least one annual meeting to coordinate activities within NPDN. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) for several of the original ten select agents designated at the inception of the Network are now on line. Through leadership of the Diagnostic Subcommittee, we expect to develop an SOP for at least one select agent in 2007-2008. The NE Regional hub will maintain its accreditation via USDA-APHIS-PPQ to support the APHIS lab in Beltsville with processing of select agents. Output 5: Response Activation. During fiscal 2007-2008, the NEPDN staff will coordinate the execution of all Type 1 exercises with each state in the region. Scenario testing exercises are worthwhile opportunities to convene all relevant parties in a state or region to review chain-of-command issues related to anticipated episodes and will continue.

Progress 07/01/07 to 06/30/12

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Output 1: Coordination/governance mechanisms for regional and national networks. NEPDN diagnosticians held a meeting April 4-5 in Rye Brook, NY to review diagnostic and reporting procedures, discuss policy and budget matters and review plans for 2012-13. The meeting included field trips to the NY Botanical Garden and Central Park where specialists at each site shared information on their pest detection efforts. The regional budget proposal was submitted to NIFA in May. NEPDN staff served as advisors for the Diagnostics, Database, Exercise and Website Committees and served on other network-wide committees as needed. NEPDN staff continue to provide leadership in the development of the STAR-D laboratory accreditation project. Representatives from all states in the region attended the NPDN National Meeting in Berkeley, CA in November. Output 2: Educated/capable First Detectors. NEPDN members conducted 47 First Detector training sessions that were attended by 3,293 participants. In addition, regional cooperators conducted a total of 368 training activities with diagnostic emphases for 17,849 clientele in their respective states. Output 3: Data Systems and Networking. During FY 2011-2012, NEPDN staff played crucial roles in development of PDIS and remain active members of the PDIS Change Management Team which reviews user change recommendations and provides input for the PDIS 2 software package. Output 4: Functioning diagnostic systems. NEPDN is responsible for overseeing the function of diagnostics for the National Network through service of one staff member as the Program Area Manager for the Diagnostics committee. We continue to facilitate national training through USDA-APHIS-PPQ and other laboratories. Nine members from the NEPDN attended training sessions at the APHIS laboratory in Beltsville, Maryland. Topics included Phytophthora ramorum and P. kernoviae, Bioinformatics, and Citrus Leprosis with Citrus Black Spot and Sweet Orange Scab. One NEPDN regional center staff and one state partner were recertified by APHIS to perform advanced diagnosis of P. ramorum. From July 1, 2011 through April 1, 2012, our members processed total of 8,481samples into PDIS. The number of samples forwarded to the NPDN National Repository totaled 5,988 samples. These numbers differ due to timing of uploads to the National Repository and due to occasional receipt of samples which may not be appropriate for recording in the Repository. The regional center laboratory and the CT Ag. Experiment Station have both maintained certification through the USDA NPPLAP program to test P.ramorum samples for USDA and offer preliminary testing at our sites within our region. This allows our laboratories to rule out negative samples so the Federal laboratory can focus on the positive samples for confirmation testing. Coincidental with activities above, NEPDN staff have forged a functional partnership with the APGA to create a Sentinel Plant Network. NEPDN collaborated with APGA to hold regional SPN introductory workshops in MA, IL, CA and NC with one more planned for TX. On average, about 35 participants representing 20 APGA gardens have been represented at each workshop. PARTICIPANTS: G.W. Hudler, Professor and P.I., provides oversight of regional hub activities. Snover-Clift, K.L., Sr. Extension Associate and Associate Regional Director provides support to regional and national programs via development of diagnostic SOP and accreditation efforts, diagnostician training and workshop organization. Rachel McCarthy, Extension Support Specialist, publishes the monthly newsletter and prepares training modules for NPDN partners to use in local programming. Karen Scott, IT Support Specialist manages the NPDN website and facilitates network-wide communication for IT issues. All of the above are at Cornell. B. Watt (ME), R. Wick (MA), C. Smith (NH), A. Hazelrigg (VT), H. Faubert (RI), J. Allen (Univ. CT), S. Douglas (CT Ag. Expt. Station), S. May (PA), R. Buckley (NJ), K. Rane (MD) and M. Rahman (WV) have extension or faculty appointments at their respective state land grant universities where they coordinate local diagnostic activity and reporting. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audiences include plant health care professionals in all aspects of the region's agricultural industry including ornamental, landscape, and forest plants as well as food crops. The target audience receives timely updates from local, regional, or national experts as new pest or pathogen issues arise. Information is transferred via classroom training, webinars, newsletters, fact sheets, and pest alerts as appropriate. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.

Impacts
NEPDN regional center staff collect and distribute information that improves the abilities of cooperating states to conduct accurate diagnoses, learn new techniques, increase surveillance for high-risk pests and pathogens, and contribute to the safety of American agriculture via timely submission of observations to the National Repository. Communication between various agencies involved in detecting, monitoring, and regulating biotic improves with each passing year, especially as participants become more comfortable with teleconferencing and webinars. Nancy Gregory of the University of Delaware identified Soybean Vein Necrosis Virus for the first time in the Northeast in August of 2011. The disease was first reported in the US in 2008. Thanks to her announcement, just weeks later, confirmations were made in the surrounding states of New York, Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. In October of 2011, Sharon Douglas of the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station identified the first case of boxwood blight in Connecticut in the United States. Due to the alert, the disease was subsequently found in numerous Northeastern states shortly afterwards. NEPDN-trained First Detectors have played critical roles in Information on Boxwood early discoveries of oak wilt (NY), brown marmorated stinkbug (ME), emerald ash borer (MD,VA) and chrysanthemum white rust (CT) and have been readily available on short notice to participate in accelerated surveys for specific pests/pathogen in several states. Improved diagnostic skills, communications, and equipment have provided our diagnosticians with the ability to diagnose numerous first occurrences in their states. First reports in the region are transmitted to the regional director via secure communications and included over 200 "First state reports" during this reporting period in 2011-12. All members of the NEPDN enter their samples in the PDIS database system. During this period, our members entered a total of 8,481samples. NEPDN supported the training of diagnosticians throughout the Network via facilitation of educational programs by APHIS resulted in diagnosticians gathering in Beltsville to learn SOPs for detection of P.ramorum, P. kernoviae, the Citrus Leprosis Virus, Guignardia citricarpa, and Elsinoe australis. Attendees are now prepared (or could be prepared on short notice) to provide surge capacity in the event of an unexpected outbreak of any one of many agents. They have also strengthened their confidence in their ability to learn new technologies and apply them as needed to protect the nation's resources. In support of the Sentinel Plant Network, three First Detector modules were revised for SPN and were integral parts of the regional workshops. They have since been used by at least14 APGA participants who attended regional workshops in their own local training endeavors. Nancy Gregory, Karen Rane, Sara May, Karen Scott, Rachel McCarthy, Karen Snover-Clift, and George Hudler were recognized at the 3rd NPDN National Meeting for their outstanding service and for providing leadership in various projects.

Publications

  • Allen, Joan. 2011. Powdery Mildew or Downy Mildew Blog: http://uconnladybug.wordpress.com
  • Allen, Joan. 2011. Growing and Using Garlic, UCONN Home & Garden Newsletter, August.
  • Douglas, S. 2012. Suggested best management practices for boxwood blight for Connecticut-Positive production nurseries. CTAES Factsheet. 2p. . Douglas, S.D. 2012. Leaf mold of tomato. CTAES Factsheet. 2p.
  • Douglas, S.D. 2012. Early Blight of tomato. CTAES Factsheet. 2p.
  • Allen, Joan. 2011. Plant Parasitic Nematodes, UCONN Home & Garden Newsletter, October.
  • Allen, Joan. 2011. Boxwood Blight, UCONN Home & Garden Newsletter, December.
  • Allen, Joan. 2012, Wood Decay in landscape Trees, UCONN Home & Garden Newsletter, February.
  • Allen, Joan. 2012, Organic Control of Basil Downy Mildew, Crop Talk; UCONN Commercial Vegetable & Fruit Crops Newsletter, March.
  • Douglas, S. 2011. Update from the Plant Disease Information Office in Connecticut. Poster. NPDN 3rd National Meeting, Berkeley, CA
  • Douglas, S. 2011, Histological investigation of infection processes of Discula destructive on leaves of Cornus florida, Can. J. Plant Pathol. 33:525-531
  • Douglas, S. 2011, Boxwood blight-A new disease for Connecticut and the U.S. CTAES Factsheet, December.
  • Douglas, S. 2011. Evaluation of Hydrangea macrophylla for resistance to leaf-spot diseases, Journal of Phytopathology 160:88-97
  • Douglas, S.D. 2012. Bacterial leaf spot of pepper. CTAES Factsheet. 2p.
  • Douglas, S.D. 2012. Phytophthora blight of pepper. CTAES Factsheet. 2p.
  • Hill, M., E. Luke, Snover-Clift, K.L. and Gregory, N. 2012. IT Updates: Sentinel Plant Network Data, NPDN News 7(1): 3.
  • Rane, K. 2011. Poster: First report of Eremothecium coryli associated with brown marmorated stinkbug injury, August 2011, American Phytopathological Society Annual Meeting, Honolulu, HI.
  • McCarthy, R. and Snover-Clift, K. 2011. The National Plant Diagnostic Network (NPDN), First Detector Training and Education Web Site Portals. Poster. NPDN 3rd National Meeting, Berkeley, CA
  • OBrien, D.D. and Snover-Clift, K.L. 2011. STAR-D, a System for True and Reliable Diagnostics. Poster. NPDN 3rd National Meeting, Berkeley, CA.
  • Hill, M., Luke, E., Snover-Clift, K. L. and Gregory, N. 2012,. IT Updates: Sentinel Plant Network Data, NPDN News, 7(1): 3.
  • LaForest, J, and Snover-Clift, K.L. 2012, A Node is Born: Introducing Cornell-Bugwood, NPDN News, 7(2): 1-2.
  • McCarthy, R. (ed.) 2011. NPDN Newsletter. Monthly. http://npdnportal.ceris.purdue.edu/newsletter
  • McCarthy, R. 2011, Sentinel Plant Network Regional Workshop at the Arnold Arboretum, NPDN News, 6(9): 10.
  • Hudler, G. 2011, SPN Workshop at the Morton Arboretum, NPDN News, 6(10): 5-6.
  • McCarthy, R. 2011. Sentinel Plant Network Hosts Regional Workshop, NPDN News, 6(12): 6-7.
  • McCarthy, R. and Stern, D. 2012. Bartlett Hosts Sentinel Plant Network Workshop for Southern Region, NPDN News, 7(3): 1-2.
  • Hill, M., Luke, E., and Scott, K. 2011, NPDN Portal. NPDN News, 6(12): 8.
  • OBrien, D.D., Snover-Clift, K., Shiel, P. and Burch, K. 2011. NPDN STAR-D Laboratory Accreditation Auditor Training, NPDN News, 6(10): 2.
  • Daughtrey, M., 2011. Avoiding Cercospora Leaf Spot on Pansy and Viola. FloriCAST by Greenhouse Grower, http://www.greenhousegrower.com/video/c:0/827/
  • Rane, K. 2011. Woody host plant problems in MD diagnostic clinics 2008-2010, August 2011, American Phytopathological Society Annual Meeting, Honolulu, HI.
  • Rane, K. 2011. Boxwood Blight in Maryland, NPDN News 6(12): 9.
  • Smith, C. 2011. First reports for New Hampshire: new pathogens, new pathogen-host combinations, and new insect pests. Poster. NPDN 3rd National Meeting, Berkeley, CA.
  • Buckley, R. 2011. Plant Diagnostic Laboratory Highlights, Cornell University ShortCUTT, Weekly Updates. July.
  • Buckley, R. 2011. Plant Diagnostic Laboratory Highlights, Rutgers Plant and Pest Advisory for August and November.
  • McCarthy, R. and Snover-Clift, K. 2011. The National Plant Diagnostic Network: First Detector Training and Education. Poster. American Phytopathological Society Annual Meeting, Honolulu, HI.
  • Socha, Marie L., Cardwell, K., Shiel, P., and Snover-Clift, K.L. 2011. NPDN participates in Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Table Top Exercise (TTX) on Rathayibacter toxicus, NPDN News, 6(9): 1-2.
  • OBrien, D.D. Snover-Clift, K.L., Shiel, P., and Burch, K. 2011. NPDN STAR-D Laboratory Accreditation Auditor Training, NPDN News, 6(10): 2.
  • Scott, K. and Snover-Clift, K.L. 2011. Web Site Portals. Poster. NPDN 3rd National Meeting, Berkeley, CA.
  • Snover-Clift, K. L. 2011, Diagnostics Committee Website Addition, NPDN News, 6(10):4.
  • Snover-Clift, K. L., Richard Bostock, and Sharon Dobesh, 2011, NPDN Third National Meeting Award Recipients, NPDN News, 6(11):2-4.
  • Snover-Clift, K. L., and Nahkla, M., November 2011, NPDN Third National Meeting Award Recipients, NPDN News, 6(11): 5-6.
  • Snover-Clift, K. 2011. Integrated Consortium of Laboratory Networks Tabletop Exercise on Rathayibacter toxicus, Poster. NPDN 3rd National Meeting, Berkeley, CA.
  • McGrath, M. 2011, Managing Cucurbit Powdery Mildew in 2011 and Managing Cucurbit Downy Mildew in 2011. Suffolk County Agricultural News.
  • Daughtrey, M.. 2011. Pansy vs. Phytophthora. FloriCAST by Greenhouse Grower, http://www.greenhousegrower.com/video/822
  • Daughtrey, M.. 2011. This month in diseases: Chrysanthemum. Greenhouse Product News, October.
  • Faubert, H.. 2011, Landscape Pest Update, RI Nursery & Landscape Association Newsletter, August.
  • Faubert, H. 2011. Spotted wing Drosophila, RI Nursery & Landscape Association Newsletter, November.
  • Rahman, M.M. 2011. Caution about new broadleaf herbicide, WV AgAlert, August.
  • Rahman, M.M. 2011. Tree mortality in West Virginia linked to herbicide used in the lawn, NPDN News, 6(9): 2.
  • Daughtrey, M., December 2011. Avoiding Thielaviopsis Root Rot on Petunia. FloriCAST by Greenhouse Grower, http://www.greenhousegrower.com/video/c:0/932/
  • Daughtrey, M. 2012. This month in diseases: Verbena. Greenhouse Product News.
  • McGrath, M. 2012, Nine Key Steps to Managing Late Blight in Tomatoes, Growing Produce; IPM Video: http://www.growingproduce.com/video/c:149/ipm/970/
  • Daughtrey, M. 2012. This month in diseases: Snapdragon, Greenhouse Product News, March.
  • McGrath, M. 2012. Powdery Mildew-Resistant Melon Varieties Continue to Provide Good Suppression, Suffolk County Agricultural News, March.
  • McGrath, M. 2012. Tomatoes Resistant to Key Diseases Evaluated on LI in 2011 and Avoiding Another Late Blight Outbreak: Role of Producers and Marketers of Garden Tomato Plants, Suffolk County Agricultural News, April.
  • Rahman, M. M. 2012, Managing Pests on Small Farms, WV Small Farm Advocate, August.
  • Rahman, M. M. 2012,: Effect of early floricane removal and fungicides on primocane blight of blackberry. Abst. The American Phytopathological Society Potomac Division Meeting.


Progress 07/01/10 to 06/30/11

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Output 1: Coordination/governance mechanisms. NEPDN diagnosticians held a regional meeting March 23-24 at the CT Ag Experiment Station to review diagnostic and reporting procedures, discuss policy and budget matters and review plans for 2011-12. The group toured local facilities used for research on exotic pests and pathogens. The regional budget proposal was submitted to NIFA in May. NEPDN staff served as advisors for the NPDN Diagnostics, National Database, Exercise and Website Committees and served on other network-wide committees as needed. NEPDN staff have taken on a major leadership role in the development of the STAR-D laboratory accreditation project. Regional staff participated in operations committee meetings in Chandler,AZ (Oct 13-14). Output 2: Educated/capable First Detectors. NEPDN members conducted 21 First Detector training sessions that were attended by 955 participants. In addition 98 people participated in 3 advanced First Detector on-line trainings coordinated by the NEPDN Education and Training Coordinator. Topics included Laurel Wilt, Thousand Cankers and bleeding canker of horsechestnut. In addition, regional cooperators conducted a total of 379 training activities with diagnostic emphases for 17,508 clientele in their respective states. Output 3: Data Systems and Networking. During FY 2011-2012, NEPDN staff played crucial roles assisted in development of PDIS and remain active members of the PDIS Change Management Team which reviews user change recommendations and provides input for the new PDIS 2 software package. Output 4: Functioning diagnostic systems. NEPDN is responsible for overseeing the function of diagnostics for the National Network through service of one staff member as the Program Area Manager for the Diagnostics Subcommittee. We continue to facilitate national training as opportunities arise through USDA-APHIS-PPQ and other laboratories. Eleven members from the NEPDN attended training sessions conducted by USDA-APHIS experts at the federal laboratory in Beltsville, Maryland. Topics included Bioinformatics, Phytophthora ramorum, and Ralstonia solanacearum R3B2. From July 1, 2010 through April 1, 2011, our members processed total of 11,044 samples into PDIS. The number of samples received by the NPDN National Repository totaled 8,724 samples. These numbers differ due to timing of uploads to the National Repository and due to occasional receipt of samples which may not be appropriate for recording in the Repository. The regional center laboratory and the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station have both gained certification through the USDA NPPLAP program to test Phytophthora ramorum samples for USDA and offer preliminary testing at our sites within our region. This allows our laboratories to rule our negative samples so the Federal laboratory can focus on the positive samples for confirmation testing. Coincidental with activities above, NEPDN staff have forged a functional partnership with the APGA to create a Sentinel Plant Network. We organized and held a strategic planning meeting in January, 2011 and will present again at the APGA annual meeting in Philadelphia in June. PARTICIPANTS: George W. Hudler, Professor and NEPEN Regional Director, Cornell University. Oversees activities at the regional office, prepares the regional budget, supervises 3 regional office employees. Karen Snover-Clift, Sr. Extension Associate and Regional Associate Director, Cornell. Is Program Manager for the national Diagnostics committee; prepares standard operating procedures, organizes inservice training, directs preparation of draft materials for accreditation program. Rachel McCarthy, Regional Education and Training Specialist, publishes national newsletter, collaborates in production of training modules for First Detectors and others, represents NPDN with the Sentinel Plant Network. Karen Scott, Regional IT specialist; oversees management of regional and national websites, advises members of the NEPDN on IT security and data management issues. Dawn Dailey O'Brien, Extension Support Specialist, is on a two-year contract to prepare laboratory accreditation materials for eventual implementation Network wide. In addition to diagnosticians in the 12 partner states, we collaborate with Keith Perry and Chris Smart (both Cornell) as their research project on rapid diagnostic techniques for Solanaceae evolves. Partner organizations include National Plant Board(Mitch Yergert), USDA-APHIS (Phil Berger, Pat Schiel), and the American Public Gardens Association (Dan Stark, Dan Sterns). NPDN diagnosticians attend and participate national and regional professional meetings and had opportunities to partake in workshops on Bioinformatics and on identification of Pseudomonas, Geosmithia, and Ceratocystis. Undergraduate students assist in the diagnostic laboratory as interest and funds allow. TARGET AUDIENCES: Training modules for registered First Detectors (including Cooperative Extension educators, Master Gardeners, plant health care professionals in many fields (American Nursery and Landscape Association, International Society of Arboriculture, Society of Crop Consultants, etc.) and others with open access to the NPDN website are available and under continual development and/or revision. Delivery methods include webinars, conventional powerpoint modules, e-Learning modules, newsletters, and fact sheets as appropriate. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
NEPDN regional center staff collect and distribute information that improves the abilities of cooperating states to conduct accurate diagnoses, learn new techniques, increase surveillance for high-risk pests and pathogens, and contribute to the safety of American agriculture via timely submission of observations to the National Repository. Communication between various agencies involved in detecting, monitoring, and regulating biotic improves with each passing year, especially as participants become more comfortable with teleconferencing and webinars. NEPDN-trained First Detectors have played critical roles in early discoveries of oak wilt (NY), brown marmorated stinkbug (ME), emerald ash borer (MD,VA) and chrysanthemum white rust (CT) and have been readily available on short notice to participate in accelerated surveys for specific pests/pathogen in several states. Improved diagnostic skills, communications, and equipment have allowed our diagnosticians the ability to diagnose numerous First occurrences in their states. First reports in the region are transmitted to the regional director via secure communications and included over 200 "First state reports" during this reporting period in 2010-1l. All members of the NEPDN enter their samples in the PDIS database system. During this period, our members entered a total of 8,724 samples First detector actions prevented introduction of brown marmorated stinkbug into Maine and saved a grower in MD $12,000 in pest managemend costs. NEPDN partners leveraged nearly $300,000 in additional survey funds due to NPDN support. NEPDN supported the training of diagnosticians throughout the Network via facilitation of educational programs by APHIS resulted in diagnosticians gathering in Beltsville to learn SOPs for detection of Pseudomonas spp., Geosmithia spp., and Ceratocystis spp. Attendees are now prepared (or could be prepared on short notice) to provide surge capacity in the event of an unexpected outbreak of any one of many agents. They have also strengthened their confidence in their ability to learn new technologies and apply them as needed to protect the nation's resources. In support of the Sentinel Plant Network, three First Detector modules will be revised for SPN use by June 30 and will be showcased at the APGA annual meeting. Planning for regional workshops to introduce APGA members to the SPN concept in five sites in the U.S. are underway.

Publications

  • Rane, K. 2010. Chrysanthemum White Rust in Maryland, Factsheet. http://www.plantclinic.umd.edu/docs/CWR_MD_alertDec%202010.pdf.
  • Snover-Clift, Karen L., July 2010, Significant Pests Make Big Moves. NPDN News, Volume 5, Issue 7, Pgs. 1-2.
  • Snover-Clift, Karen L., August 2010, Thousand Cankers Disease Discovered in Native Populations of Black Walnut, NPDN News, Volume 5, Issue 7, Pgs. 1-2.
  • Snover-Clift, Karen L., August 2010, Thousand Cankers Disease Discovered in Native Populations of Black Walnut, Branching Out, Volume 17, No. 10.
  • Snover-Clift, Karen L., December 2010, Thousand Cankers Disease Discovered in Native Populations of Black Walnut, The Nutshell, Volume 64, No. 4, Pg. 22
  • Daughtrey, Margery. 2011, Cornell Guidelines to the Integrated Pest Management for Greenhouse Floriculture Crops, Cornell University Cooperative Extension Bulletin. Cornell Cooperative Extension, Ithaca, NY.
  • Douglas, S. 2010. Common Diseases of Maples. http://www.ct.gov/caes/cwp/view.asp?a=2815&q=376858
  • Douglas, S. 2010 Highlights of the 2010 growing season, CT Christmas Tree Growers Association Newsletter, July 2010.
  • Douglas, S. 2010. Gymnosporangium rusts, Factsheet, November 2010. http://www.ct.gov/caes/lib/caes/documents/publications/fact_sheets/pl ant_pathology_and_ecology/gymnosporangium_rusts_10-19-10.pdf
  • Douglas, S. 2010. Blossom end rot, Factsheet, November 2010. http://www.ct.gov/caes/cwp/view.asp?a=2815&q=376746
  • May, Sara, August 2010, NPDN/PSU Plant Disease Diagnostics Workshop. Phytopathology News 44(8): 127..
  • McCarthy, Rachel, September 2010, Ornamentals Workshop at Kanuga, 2010, NPDN News, Volume 5, Issue 9, Pgs. 1-2.
  • McCarthy, Rachel, January 2011, Sentinel Plant Network Meeting at Longwood Gardens, NPDN News, Volume 6, Issue 1, Pgs. 1-2.
  • Rane, K. 2010. Artillery Fungus and other Things that Grow on Mulch, Factsheet, UD Diagnostic Lab. (http://www.hgic.umd.edu.


Progress 07/01/09 to 06/30/10

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Output 1: Coordination/governance mechanisms for regional and national networks. NEPDN diagnosticians held our regional meeting and the 2nd NPDN National meeting From December 6-10, 2009 in Miami, FL, to tour tropical facilities, discuss plant biosecurity, international trade, port procedures, discuss policy and budget matters and review plans for 2010-11. The director requested subcontract proposals and annual reports in April and the regional budget proposal was submitted to CSREES in May. NEPDN staff chaired the NPDN Diagnostics, National Database, Exercise and Website Committees and served on other network-wide committees as needed. Regional staff participated in operations committee meetings in Oregon in July and California In May. Output 2: Educated/capable first detectors ready to notice unusual events and take appropriate action. NEPDN members continue to train first detectors. NEPDN members conducted 46 training sessions that were attended by 1,754 participants. Output 3: Data Systems and Networking. During FY 2009-2010, NEPDN staff were active participants in the development of PDIS and remain active members of the PDIS Change Management Team which reviews user change recommendations and provides input for the new PDIS 2 software package. Regional staff participated in the beta testing of the PDIS 2 Administration Module release on July 24, 2009 and the Diagnosticians Module released on March 1, 2010. In FY2009-10, 15,926 sample diagnoses were entered into the PDIS system from NEPDN members. The new portal system for the NPDN website was put into place during this year and is doing well. It was developed by NPDN IT staff members and is being housed at Purdue University. Output 4: Functioning diagnostic systems. NEPDN is responsible for overseeing the function of diagnostics for the National Network and is the leader of the Diagnostics Subcommittee. Several NEPDN states have received training for significant pathogens and pests. We continue to facilitate national training as opportunities arise through USDA-APHIS-PPQ and other laboratories. During this period several members attended workshops on Phytophthora kernoviae and P. ramorum, Plum Pox and Potato Wart. One of the NEPDN regional center staff members and one of our members gained provisional approval by USDA-APHIS-PPQ-CPHST to perform advanced diagnosis of P. ramorum. PARTICIPANTS: NEPDN-State Diagnostician Contacts CT- Joan Allen, Assistant Cooperative Extension Educator in Residence, Home & Garden Education Center, Department of Plant Science, University of Connecticut. CTAE-Sharon Douglas, Plant Pathologist, Department of Plant Pathology & Ecology, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station. DE- Nancy Gregory, Plant and Soil Sciences Department. MA- Robert Wick, Department of Microbiology, University of Massachusetts. MD- Karen Rane, Director, Plant Diagnostic laboratory, University of Maryland. ME- Bruce Watt, Plant Disease Diagnostician, Pest Management Office, University of Maine. NH- Cheryl Smith, Extension Specialist, Plant Health, Plant Diagnostic Laboratory. NJ- Rich Buckley, Plant Diagnostic Laboratory, Rutgers University. NY- Regional Center: Director NEPDN , George Hudler, Professor & Department Chairman, Cornell University, Department of Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology. Associate Director NEPDN , Karen L. Snover-Clift, Director, Plant Disease Diagnostic Clinic Cornell University, Department of Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology. IT Specialist, NEPDN , Karen Scott, Cornell University, Department of Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology. Education & Training Coordinator, NEPDN , Rachel McCarthy, Cornell University, Department of Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology. PA- Sara May, Coordiantor, Plant Disease Clinic, 220 Buckout Laboratory, The Pennsylvania State University. RI- Heather Faubert, URI Plant Protection Clinic, University of Rhode Island, 120 Greenhouses. VT- Ann Hazelrigg, Plant Diagnostic Clinic Coordinator, Dept. of Plant and Soil Science, University of Vermont. WV- Jennifer Williams, Director, Agriculture and Natural Resources, West Virginia University Extension Service TARGET AUDIENCES: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
NEPDN regional center staff collect and distribute information that improves the abilities of cooperating states to conduct accurate diagnoses, learn new techniques, increase surveillance for high-risk pests and pathogens, and contribute to the health of American agriculture via timely submission of observations to the National Repository. Communication between various agencies involved in detecting, monitoring, and regulating biotic threats to US agriculture is better. NEPDN participants are now more closely linked than ever with counterparts in state departments of agriculture, APHIS-PPQ and CAPS, and USDA-IPM, and each state has a cadre of educated First Detectors who have, in some cases, already proven their worth by discovering new pests or pathogens. Communications are continually more sophisticated and representative of scenarios that diagnosticians might expect to encounter if a real threat emerges. Improved diagnostic skills, communications, and equipment have allowed our diagnosticians the ability to diagnose numerous first occurrences in their states. Twenty-two first reports were reported in six of our states during this reporting period. All members of the NEPDN enter their samples in the PDIS database system. During this period, our members entered a total of 15,926 samples. NEPDN supported the training of diagnosticians throughout the Network via facilitation of educational programs by APHIS resulted in diagnosticians gathering in Beltsville to learn SOPs for detection of Phytophthora kernoviae and P. ramorum, Plum Pox and Potato Wart. Attendees are now prepared (or could be on short notice) to provide surge capacity in the event of an unexpected outbreak of any one of many agents. They have also strengthened their confidence in their ability to learn new technologies and apply them as needed to protect the nation's resources. Communications between and within regions have been vastly improved with continued growth and development of the Plant Diagnosis Information System (PDIS). This data management package has been adopted by all states of the NEPDN, the NCPDN, and the GPDN and several other states in the South and West. A responsive programming team at the host institution in Kansas guided by an inter-regional change management committee has lead to effective collaboration between specialists from two very different backgrounds to reach a common goal.

Publications

  • Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station Current Diseases of Christmas Trees in Connecticut, Connecticut Christmas Tree Growers Association Meeting, July 2009.
  • Late Blight of Tomato and Potato in Connecticut 2009, Factsheet, Website, July 2009.
  • Late Blight of Tomato and Potato in Connecticut 2009, Factsheet-Image Gallery, Website, July 2009.
  • Common Diseases of Greenhouse Crops, Connecticut Greenhouse Growers Association Meeting, New Haven, CT, October 2009.
  • History of plant diseases- compilation of historical references, Connecticut Greenhouse Growers Association Meeting, New Haven, CT, October 2009.
  • Tomatoes in greenhouses and high tunnels-Disease identification and management, 2009
  • Greenhouse and High Tunnel Tomato Conference, Sturbridge, CT, November 2009
  • Introduction to Plant Disease, Factsheet, Website, January 2010.
  • Ecofriendly Management of Plant Diseases, Factsheet, Website, February 2010.
  • Canavirgella needlecast of pine, Factsheet, Website, April 2010.
  • Sphaerobolus spp.: The artillery fungus, Factsheet, Website, May 2010.
  • Needlecasts of Douglas Fir, Factsheet, Website, May 2010.
  • Late Blight of Tomato and Potato in Connecticut 2009, Factsheet, Website, June 2010.
  • Ecofriendly Management of Plant Diseases, Federated Garden Clubs Study School, May 2010.
  • How to Identify Plant Diseases, Connecticut Greenhouse Growers Association Meeting, June 2010.
  • University of Delaware Gregory, Nancy, August 2009, Japanese Apple Rust Fact Sheet, USDA/APHIS/PPQ Factsheet, https://www.npdn.org/webfm_send/944
  • University of Maryland Rane, Karen, July 2009, Ceratocystis fagacearum (Oak Wilt), Bugwood Wiki, http://wiki.bugwood.org/Ceratocystis_fagacearum
  • Snover-Clift, Karen L., Laurene Levy, and Kurt Zeller, November 2009. NPDN-USDA APHIS Potato Wart, Synchytrium endobioticum Training. NPDN News, Volume 5, Issue 9, Pgs. 7-8.
  • Snover-Clift, Karen L., November 2009. Thousand Cankers of Black Walnut National Conference. NPDN News, Volume 5, Issue 9, Pgs. 6-7.
  • NPDN Newsletter. Volume 4, Issues 7, 8, and 9, July, September, and November 2009. Editors Karen Snover-Clift and Karen Scott, http://npdn-portal.ceris.purdue.edu/newsletter
  • Snover-Clift, Karen L., September 2009. Success Story: Japanese Apple Rust Identified, Due to Pest Alert Circulation. NPDN News, Volume 5, Issue 8, Pgs. 7.
  • Cornell University- Education & Training NPDN Newsletter. Volume 5, Issue 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, January-June 2010, Editor Rachel McCarthy, http://npdn-portal.ceris.purdue.edu/newsletter
  • Poster: Snover-Clift, Karen L., Late Blight. How conducive weather and broad distribution of inoculums caused devastating damage in New York State in 2009, December 2009, 2nd NPDN National Meeting, Miami, FL
  • Poster: Snover-Clift, Karen L., An isolated incident of oak wilt found in an upstate New York neighborhood, December 2009, 2nd NPDN National Meeting, Miami, FL
  • Poster: Snover-Clift, Karen L., New NPDN Web Site Portal, December 2009, 2nd NPDN National Meeting, Miami, FL
  • Poster: Snover-Clift, Karen L., Strengthening Partnerships through Exercises, December 2009, 2nd NPDN National Meeting, Miami, FL
  • Cornell University- Long Island Daughtrey, Margery, August 2009, This month in diseases: poinsettias, Greenhouse Product News 19(8):14
  • Daughtrey, Margery, September 2009, This month in diseases: pansies, Greenhouse Product News 19 (9):12
  • Daughtrey, Margery, October 2009, This month in diseases: crucifers, Greenhouse Product News 19(10):14
  • Daughtrey, Margery, November 2009, This month in diseases: cyclamen, Greenhouse Product News 19 (11):12
  • Daughtrey, Margery, December 2009, This month in diseases: orchids, Greenhouse Product News 19(12):12
  • Daughtrey, Margery, December 2009, Wrestling with a rapacious root rotter, GrowerTalks 73(8):68-70
  • Daughtrey, Margery, December 2009, Keeping shamrocks green, Greenhouse Product News 19(12):24-27
  • Daughtrey, Margery, December 2009, Fungus gnat feeding and mechanical wounding inhibit Pythium aphanidermatum infection of geranium seedlings., Phytopathology 99:1421-1428
  • Daughtrey, Margery, September 2009, Identification and properties of a carlavirus causingchlorotic mottle of florists' hydrangea in the U.S., Plant Disease 93(9):891-895
  • McGrath, Margaret, July 2009, Late Blight On Potatoes, Tomatoes Confirmed In The Northeast. Growing Produce.com, http://www.growingproduce.com/news/storyid=2111
  • McGrath, Margaret, September 2009, Monitor For Late Blight, http://www.growingproduce.com/americanvegetablegrower/storyid=2495
  • McGrath, Margaret, October 2009, Late Blight Lessons, http://www.growingproduce.com/americanvegetablegrower/storyid=2649
  • Daughtrey, Margery, January 2010, This month in diseases: impatiens, Greenhouse Product News 20(1):14
  • Daughtrey, Margery, February 2010, This month in diseases: geranium, Greenhouse Product News 20(2):15
  • Daughtrey, Margery, March 2010, This month in diseases: hydrangeas, Greenhouse Product News 20(3):16
  • Daughtrey, Margery, April 2010, This month in diseases: basil, Greenhouse Product News 20(4):14
  • Daughtrey, Margery, May 2010, This month in diseases: New Guinea impatiens, Greenhouse Product News 20(5):14
  • Daughtrey, Margery, June 2010, This month in diseases: vinca, Greenhouse Product News 20(6):14
  • Rutgers University Plant Diagnostic Laboratory Highlights, Cornell University ShortCUTT, Weekly Updates: July 2009 through November 2009 and March 2010 through June 2010.
  • Plant Diagnostic Laboratory Highlights, Rutgers Plant and Pest Advisory, Weekly Updates: July 2009 through November 2009 and March 2010 through June 2010.
  • Buckley, Richard, March 2010, An Integrated Approach to Pest Management in Turfgrass: Billbugs, http://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/224
  • Buckley, Richard, March 2010, An Integrated Approach to Pest Management in Turfgrass: Sod Webworms, http://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/584
  • Buckley, Richard, March 2010, An Integrated Approach to Pest Management in Turfgrass: Black Cutworm, http://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/293
  • Poster: Maryland First Detector Training:Partnerships and Innovations, December 2009, 2nd NPDN National Meeting, Miami, FL
  • First Report of Powdery Mildew Caused by Podosphaera leucotricha on Callery Pear in North America, Minnis, A. M, A. Y. Rossman, D. L. Clement, M. K. Malinoski, and K. K. Rane., February 2010, Plant Disease 94:279
  • Cornell University- Diagnostics Poster: Snover-Clift, Karen L., Regional Highlights from the Northeast Plant Diagnostic Network (NEPDN), December 2009, 2nd NPDN National Meeting, Miami, FL
  • Poster: Snover-Clift, Karen L., The National Plant Diagnostic Network STAR-D, December 2009, 2nd NPDN National Meeting, Miami, FL
  • Poster: Snover-Clift, Karen L., The National Plant Diagnostic Network Diagnostics Subcommittee, December 2009, 2nd NPDN National Meeting, Miami, FL
  • Poster: Snover-Clift, Karen L., The National Plant Diagnostic Network National Database Subcommittee, December 2009, 2nd NPDN National Meeting, Miami, FL
  • Poster: Snover-Clift, Karen L., NPDN: Delivering first detector training through eLearning, December 2009, 2nd NPDN National Meeting, Miami, FL
  • Poster: Snover-Clift, Karen L., NPDN: Delivering first detector training through workshops, webinars, and wiki web page content for master gardeners, December 2009, 2nd NPDN National Meeting, Miami, FL
  • Buckley, Richard, April 2010, An Integrated Approach to Pest Management in Turfgrass: Annual Bluegrass Weevil, http://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/271
  • Buckley, Richard, April 2010, An Integrated Approach to Pest Management in Turfgrass: Hairy Chinch Bug, http://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/307
  • Buckley, Richard, May 2010, An Integrated Approach to Pest Management in Turfgrass: Nematodes , http://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/251
  • Pennsylvania State University Poster: Highlights of prominent Pennsylvania plant diseases and diagnostic training, December 2009, 2nd NPDN National Meeting, Miami, FL.
  • May, Sara, January 2010. NPDN/PSU Plant Disease Diagnostics Workshop. NPDN News, Volume 5, Issue 1, Pgs. 5.
  • University of Vermont Poster: Small Fruit Pest Issues Tour for NE and NE, December 2009, 2nd NPDN National Meeting, Miami, FL


Progress 07/01/08 to 06/30/09

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Output 1: Coordination/governance mechanisms for regional and national networks. NEPDN diagnosticians held the regional meeting March 17-19 at Rutgers Universityto review diagnostic and reporting procedures, discuss policy and budget matters and review plans for 2009-10. While there, the group participated in a cross training that included a tour of a Port of Elizabeth fumigation facility and the APHIS Plant Inspection Station. The director requested subcontract proposals and annual reports in April and the regional budget proposal was submitted to CSREES in May. NEPDN staff chaired the NPDN Diagnostics, National Database, Exercise and Website Committees and served on other network-wide committees as needed. Regional staff participated in operations committee meetings in Minnesota in July and Gainesville in December. Regional staff participated in the planning of the 2nd NPDN National Meeting to be held in Miami, FL on December 6-10, 2009. Output 2: Educated/capable first detectors ready to notice unusual events and take appropriate action. NEPDN members continue to train first detectors. NEPDN members conducted 41 training sessions that were attended by 1,067 participants. In addition 131 people participated in 4 advanced first detector on-line trainings coordinated by the NEPDN Education and Training Coordinator. Therefore, the NEPDN trained a total of 1,198 people during this funding period. The NEPDN made major contributions to national curriculum development inasmuch as the Coordinator edits all plant pathology subject matter modules and was the leader of a group that developed 6 training modules for master gardeners. Output 3: Data Systems and Networking. During FY 2008-2009, NEPDN staff were active participants in the development of PDIS and remain active members of the PDIS Change Management Team which reviews user change recommendations and provides input for the new PDIS 2 software package. Regional staff participated in the beta testing of the PDIS 2 Administration Module prior to its release on July 24, 2009. Diagnosticians have voiced concerns about the output reports that include a client response form and invoice. The NEPDN Associate Director coordinated a working group to develop an alternative to the current format. In FY2008-09, 11,121 sample diagnoses were submitted to the National Repository from NEPDN members. A new portal system for the NPDN website is being developed by NPDN IT staff members and will be housed at Purdue University. Output 4: Functioning diagnostic systems. NEPDN is responsible for overseeing the function of diagnostics for the National Network and is the leader of the Diagnostics Subcommittee. Several NEPDN states have received training for significant pathogens and pests. We continue to facilitate national training as opportunities arise through USDA-APHIS-PPQ and other laboratories. During this period several members attended workshops on Phytophthora kernoviae and P. ramorum and potato cyst nematode. One of the NEPDN regional center staff members and one of our members gained provisional approval by USDA-APHIS-PPQ-CPHST to perform advanced diagnosis of P. ramorum. PARTICIPANTS: Collaborators include plant disease diagnosticians at land grant universities in the northeast U.S., U.S. Forest Service and A.P.H.I.S scientists, state departments of agriculture, Cooperative Extension educators, and other plant health care professionals. The states of ME, NH, VT, RI, CT, PA, NY, NJ, DE, WV, and MD are represented. Training opportunities for advanced methods to detect potato wart, Phytophthora ramorum, and soybean rust have been held at the USDA-APHIS facility in Maryland; DNA extraction techniques with kits supplied by the NEPDN were taught via a webinar. TARGET AUDIENCES: As in participants, above. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.

Impacts
NEPDN regional center staff collect and distribute information that improves the abilities of cooperating states to conduct accurate diagnoses, learn new techniques, increase surveillance for high-risk pests and pathogens, and contribute to the health of American agriculture via timely submission of observations to the National Repository. Communication between various agencies involved in detecting, monitoring, and regulating biotic threats to US agriculture is better. NEPDN participants are now more closely linked than ever with counterparts in state departments of agriculture, APHIS-PPQ and CAPS, and USDA-IPM, and each state has a cadre of educated First Detectors who have, in some cases, already proven their worth by discovering new pests or pathogens. Communications are continually more sophisticated and representative of scenarios that diagnosticians might expect to encounter if a real threat emerges. Improved diagnostic skills, communications, and equipment have allowed our diagnosticians the ability to diagnose numerous first occurrences in their states. First reports include the Gymnosporangium yamadae, Cereal Yellow Dwarf Virus on wheat, Kyllinga gracillima (weedy sedge), an unknown potyvirus on butternut squash, Peanut Stunt Virus on lima bean, Erysiphe polygoni on cowpea, Gynaikothrips uzeli, a thrips on Ficus benjamina in a greenhouse, a Verticillium sp. on Calycanthus, and Septoria leaf spot on sweet cherry in Delaware, Podosphaera leucotricha on ornamental pear in Maryland, downy mildew on basil in Massachusetts, a first report for Ceratocysitis fagacearum at the regional center, the Cornell University Long Island Horticulture Research & Extension Center (LIHREC) reported Phytophthora capsici on Snap Bean, and Rhode Island reported a first report for the snail case bagworm, Apterona helix and for Puccinia horiana. All members of the NEPDN enter their samples in the PDIS database system. During this period, our members entered a total of 15,861 samples. NEPDN supported the training of diagnosticians throughout the Network via facilitation of educational programs by APHIS resulted in diagnosticians gathering in Beltsville to learn SOPs for detection of Phytophthora kernoviae, P. ramorum and potato cyst nematode. Attendees are now prepared (or could be on short notice) to provide surge capacity in the event of an unexpected outbreak of any one of many agents. They have also strengthened their confidence in their ability to learn new technologies and apply them as needed to protect the nation's resources. Communications between and within regions have been vastly improved with continued growth and development of the Plant Diagnosis Information System (PDIS). This data management package has been adopted by all states of the NEPDN, the NCPDN, and the GPDN and several other states in the South and West. A responsive programming team at the host institution in Kansas guided by an inter-regional change management committee has lead to effective collaboration between specialists from two very different backgrounds to reach a common goal.

Publications

  • Lund, J., Klass, C., Groden, E., King, S., Arevalo, H., Levitsky, T. (2008). A Survey of Pestiferious Ants in Suburban Landscapes of Maine and New York. (abstract). Proc. ESA Meeting, Reno, Nevada.
  • McKellar, M. (2008) NPDN Newsletter 3(7): 1-12. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx
  • McKellar, M. (2009) NPDN Newsletter 4(1): 1-14. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx
  • McKellar, M. (2009) NPDN Newsletter 4(2): 1-14. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx
  • McKellar, M. (2009) NPDN Newsletter 4(3): 1-14. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx
  • McKellar, M.(2009) NPDN Newsletter 4(4): 1-20. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx
  • Anagnostakis, S.L. and Douglas, S. 2008. The nations first agricultural experiment station (abstract), Phytopathology 98:S13.
  • McKellar, M. (2009)NPDN Newsletter 4(5): 1-18. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx
  • McKellar, M. (2009) NPDN Newsletter 4(6): 1-14. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx
  • Roberts, P.D., Molmo, T. , Ritchie,L., Olson, S.M., Jones, J.B., Balogh, B. (2008). Evaluation of spray program against bacterial spot on tomato containing famoxadone, a systemic acquired resistance activator, and a biological control agent compared to cooper, Crop Protection 27: 1519-1526.
  • Scott, K. and Snover-Clift, K.L.(2009). NPDN Newsletter 4(7): 1-20. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx
  • Scott, K. and Snover-Clift, K.L.(2009). NPDN Newsletter 4(8): 1-22. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx
  • Scott, K. and Snover-Clift, K.L.(2009). NPDN Newsletter 4(9): 1-24. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx
  • Snover-Clift, K.L., and M.E. McKellar. (2008). Standard Operating Procedures for the NPDN: Phytophthora ramorum (Sudden Oak Death) version 1.1 NPDN Select Agent Guidelines. 83 pgs.
  • Snover-Clift, K.L. (2009). NPDN-USDA APHIS Phytophthora kernoviae and Phytophthora ramorum Training, NPDN Newsletter 4(3): 10-11.
  • Botond, B., Canteros,B.I., Stall, R.E., and Jones, J.B. (2008). Control of citrus canker and citrus bacterial spot with bacteriophages, Plant Disease 92(7):1048-1052.
  • Jensen-Tracy, S., Kenaley, S., Hudler, G.W., Harrington, T., and Logue, C. (2009). First report of the oak wilt fungus, Ceratocystis fagacearum, in New York State. Plant Disease 93: 428,
  • King, S., Lund, J. and Klass, C. (2009). Ant Survey in Delaware and Surrounding Areas (abstract), Proc. ESA Meeting, Reno, Nevada.


Progress 07/01/07 to 06/30/08

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Output 1: Coordination/governance mechanisms. NEPDN diagnosticians met on Feb 16-18 to review diagnostic and reporting procedures, discuss policy and budget matters and review plans for 2008-09. The director requested subcontract proposals and annual reports in April and the regional budget proposal was submitted to CSREES in May. NEPDN staff chaired the NPDN Diagnostics and Website Committees and served on other network-wide committees as needed. The director, associate director and IT specialist participated in roundtable discussions and operations committee meetings in July. Output 2: Educated/capable first detectors. We trained over 420 new First Detectors in 2007-2008. In addition, educational efforts increased our interactions with entomologists nationwide. NEPDN made major contributions to national curriculum development inasmuch as the NEPDN Education Coordinator edits all plant pathology subject matter for First Detector modules and is the leader of the working group developing training for Master Gardeners. To promote the First Detector training program, the NEPDN Education and Training Coordinator modified NPDN training modules to include topics specifically linked to the Northeast region. Additionally, the Coordinator created on-line versions of the modules and distributed over 50 CDs to NEPDN members. The Coordinator also created continuing education for first detectors by offering advanced training in digital diagnosis. An Adobe Connect session for NEPDN members on how to use the on-line first detector training modules was presented. Output 3: Data Systems and Networking. During FY 2007-2008, the NEPDN IT Specialist improved security by installing a NESSUS vulnerability network scanner. NEPDN members were active participants in the development of PDIS and continue to provide input for new and expanded features. NEPDN regional center staff are active members of the PDIS Change Management Team which meets once monthly to review user change recommendations and to discuss the creation of the new PDIS 2 software package. In FY2007-08, 8,597 sample diagnoses were submitted to the National Repository from NEPDN members. A web site for the NEPDN regional center was established and connected with the web sites for each of our regional members, the other regional centers, and to the NPDN main web site The web site for the National Network was created by and continues to be maintained by staff of the NEPDN Regional Center. During this funding cycle it was decided that a new portal system be developed. Output 4: Functioning diagnostic systems. NEPDN is responsible for overseeing the function of diagnostics in the NPDN and is leads the Diagnostics Subcommittee. Several NEPDN states have received training for the potato cyst nematode, soybean rust, sudden oak death, plum pox, citrus greening, and Ralstonia southern wilt/brown rot detection. We continue to facilitate regional training as opportunities arise through USDA-APHIS-PPQ and other laboratories. One NEPDN regional center staff members gained provisional approval by USDA-APHIS-PPQ-CPHST to perform advanced diagnosis of P. ramorum. PARTICIPANTS: Participants in the NEPDN come from state land grant universities and state departments of agriculture. Principal investigators at LGU labs include: Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station - Sharon Douglas; Cornell University - Karen Snover-Clift; Pennsylvania State University - John Peplinski; Rutgers University - Rich Buckley ; University of Connecticut - John Kaminsky; University of Delaware - Bob Mulrooney; University of Maine - Bruce Watt; University of Maryland - Karen Rane; University of Massachusetts - Rob Wick; University of New Hampshire - Cheryl Smith; University of Rhode Island - Heather Faubert; University of Vermont - Ann Hazelrigg; West Virginia University - John Baniecki. George Hudler, Cornell University, is the Regional Director and he is assisted by Karen Snover-Clift (Diagnostics, Associate Director), Karen Scott (Information Technology), and Mary McKellar (Education and Training). State department of agriculture cooperators are Robert Mungari (New York), Seung Kim and Ruth Welliver (Pennsylvania) and Barry Crutchfield (West Virgina). TARGET AUDIENCES: The NPDN serves the nation's agricultural infrastructure by providing expert diagnoses of plant diseases and identification of noxious insects, weeds, and other pests that might otherwise threaten its vitality and economic stability. Plant pest/pathogen identifiers in state land grant universities are the primary target audiences for the network, and staff in those laboratories. They, in turn, train first detectors who come from the ranks of Cooperative Extension, Master Gardeners, Certified Crop Consultants, and other plant health care professionals who express interest in receiving available training. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.

Impacts
NEPDN regional center staff collect and distribute information that improves the abilities of cooperating states to conduct accurate diagnoses, learn new techniques, increase surveillance for high-risk pests and pathogens, and contribute to the health of American agriculture via timely submission of observations to the National Repository. Communication between various agencies involved in detecting, monitoring, and regulating biotic threats to US agriculture is better and involves new areas of specialization. NEPDN participants are now more closely linked than ever with counterparts in state departments of agriculture, APHIS-PPQ and CAPS, and USDA-IPM, and each state has a cadre of educated First Detectors who have, in some cases, already proven their worth by discovering one or more new (to state, region, etc) pests or pathogens. In states where insect ID and plant disease diagnoses were previously separate functions in time and space, communication is now more frequent and of higher quality. Electronic communication between and among state cooperators has also increased with development of educational modules that are continually more sophisticated and representative of scenarios that diagnosticians might expect to encounter if a real threat emerges. A DNA extraction training program using Adobe Connect with a movie clip of the extraction process was particularly effective inasmuch as 9 of 10 laboratories in the region successfully applied knowledge from the lessons to extract DNA from live plants infected with Phytophthora. This venture, the first of its kind for NEPDN cooperators, will serve as a template for development of new programs where combining distance learning with hands on practice seems to be the best way teach new material. Also a training session on how to use National Repository software, although less complex, further acclimated cooperators to the educational technology and improved the quality of their data submissions. NEPDN support to training of diagnosticians throughout the Network via facilitation of educational programs by APHIS resulted in diagnosticians gathering in Beltsvilled to learn SOPs for detection of potato cyst nematode, Ralstonia solanacearum, soybean rust, citrus greening and ramorum blight. Attendees are now prepared (or could be on short notice) to provide surge capacity in the event of an unexpected outbreak of any one of these agents. They have also learned strengthened their confidence in their ability to learn new technologies and apply them as needed to protect the nation's resources. Communications between and within regions have been vastly improved with continued growth and development of the Plant Diagnosis Information System (PDIS). This data management/communications package has been adopted by all states of the NEPDN, the NCPDN, and the GPDN and several other states in the South and West with a second iteration of the package due out in 2008-09. A responsive programming team at the host institution in Kansas guided by a inter-regional change management committee has lead to effective collaboration between specialists from two very different backgrounds to reach a common goal.

Publications

  • Snover-Clift, K.L., P.A. Clement, R. Jablonski, R.J. Mungari, V.A. Mavrodieva, S. Negi, and L. Levy, November 2007, First Report of the Plum pox virus on Plum in New York State, Plant Disease Note, Plant Disease, PD-0321: 1512.
  • McKellar, M. 2008. NPDN Newsletter. Volume 3, Issue 1. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabindex=6&tabid=44
  • McKellar, M. 2008. NPDN Newsletter. Volume 3, Issue 2. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabindex=6&tabid=44
  • McKellar, M. 2008. NPDN Newsletter. Volume 3, Issue 3. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabindex=6&tabid=44
  • McKellar, M. 2008. NPDN Newsletter. Volume 3, Issue 4. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabindex=6&tabid=44
  • McKellar, M. 2008. NPDN Newsletter. Volume 3, Issue 5. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabindex=6&tabid=44
  • McKellar, M. 2008. NPDN Newsletter. Volume 3, Issue 6. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabindex=6&tabid=44
  • McKellar, M. E. 2008. NPDN First Detectors: The First Line of Defense Against Introduced Plant Pests and Diseases, Branching Out, Volume 15, No. 1. Cornell University.
  • Snover-Clift, K. L. 2007, NPDN National Database Upload Guidelines version 1.0, http://www.npdn.org/Library/ViewDocument.doc?filetype=doc&DocumentId= 1230
  • Snover-Clift, K.L., M.E. McKellar. 2008, Standard Operating Procedures for the NPDN: Phytophthora ramorum (Sudden Oak Death) version 1.0 NPDN Select Agent Guidelines. 83p.
  • Bergstrom, G,, McKellar, M, and Waldron, J.K.. The 2007 New York On-Farm Soybean Rust/Soybean Aphid Monitoring Network. New York State IPM Program: Project Reports 2007-2008, NYS IPM Publication No. 506.
  • Eggers, J. and Baniecki, J. 2007. Quick Reference Pest Fact Sheets V1.1. West Virginia University Extension Service, Morgantown, WV. 34p: 17 Vegetable Fact Sheets; 9 Ornamental Fact Sheets
  • Hodges, A, C. Bates, R. Hoenisch, M. McKellar, and Ryba White, M. 2007. NPDN First Detector Educator Training Manual, 3rd Edition, p. 27.
  • Howell, J., 2008. Vegetable Management Guide 2008-2009, University of Massachusetts Office of Communications and Marketing, Amherst, MA., 210 pp.
  • McKellar, M. 2007. NPDN Newsletter. Volume 2, Issue 7. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabindex=6&tabid=44
  • McKellar, M. 2007. NPDN Newsletter. Volume 2, Issue 8. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabindex=6&tabid=44
  • McKellar, M. 2007. NPDN Newsletter. Volume 2, Issue 9. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabindex=6&tabid=44
  • McKellar, M. 2007. NPDN Newsletter. Volume 2, Issue 10. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabindex=6&tabid=44
  • McKellar, M. 2007. NPDN Newsletter. Volume 2, Issue 11. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabindex=6&tabid=44
  • McKellar, M. 2007. NPDN Newsletter. Volume 2, Issue 12. http://www.npdn.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabindex=6&tabid=44