First Detector
A National Threat
Our agriculture, forests, and landscapes are all vulnerable to the potentially devastating impacts of introduced pests and pathogens that harm plants. These invasive species affect our resources as well as industries on which the United States' economy is built. Efforts to contain and combat these species cost the government billions of dollars, and new pests and pathogens continue to be introduced to our country.
You can help protect our plants!
Early detection of these threats is our most effective defense, and First Detectors perform this crucial on-the-ground task. Through online training modules and in-person workshops, this nationwide network of volunteers is equipped to identify and rapidly report the presence of exotic pests, improving protection of our natural resources and economy.
Photo credit - spotted lanternfly: Lawrence Barringer, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Bugwood.org; Huanglongbing & Asian citrus psyllid: Michael E. Rogers, Center Director and Professor, University of Florida/IFAS Citrus Research & Education Center; Asian longhorn beetle: Joe Boggs, Ohio State University; sudden oak death: David M. Rizzo, University of California, Davis
You Can Help!
You can become part of the growing team of First Detectors! This network is comprised of individuals who frequently interact with plants in their everyday lives, including cooperative extension county educators, crop consultants, pesticide applicators, growers, master gardeners, master naturalists, industry representatives, NRCS conservationists, and other agricultural professionals.
First Detectors
You can become part of the nationwide volunteer network protecting U.S. plant resources through early detection and reporting of invasive pests and pathogens.
Contact Us
Rachel McCarthy
NPDN & NEPDN Training and Education Coordinator
Department of Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology, Cornell University
(607) 255-7871
rachel.mccarthy@cornell.edu