PRESS RELEASE
For immediate release
Contact: Amanda Aranowski
American Phytopathological Society
Phone: +1.651.454.7250
Web: www.apsnet.org
E-mail: aaranowski@scisoc.org
Plant Pathologists Hold Workshop On Crop Biosecurity Issues
St. Paul, MN (March 25, 2003) Bringing together representatives from
government agencies, universities, scientific societies, and the private
sector, the American Phytopathological Society (APS) assembled a workshop
on crop biosecurity in Washington, D.C. on March 20-21, 2003.
The workshop addressed the need for greater
prevention and preparedness to protect against the intentional or
accidental introduction of plant pathogens that could pose a serious
threat to the nation’s food security. Participants stressed the need for
greater collaboration between groups.
John Sherwood, chair of the APS Public Policy Board,
said the level of involvement at the event was “impressive.” “The broad
participation in the workshop signifies the interest and willingness of
the groups to work together for this important shared cause—our
nation’s food security,” said Sherwood.
Issues discussed include:
- Defining an event and differentiating from natural and intentional releases
- Review of the current and planned infrastructure for biosecurity
- Role of genomics in biosecurity
- Practices for assuring biosecurity
- Publication of sensitive information
The discussions resulted in a list of prioritized action items. A summary of
the discussions and recommendations are being prepared and include topics
for further discussion. A white paper from the APS Public Policy Board
will soon be made available to highlight workshop’s findings.
The American Phytopathological Society (APS) is a
non-profit, professional scientific organization dedicated to the study
and control of plant diseases with 5,000 members worldwide.
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