Jul 9, 2007More Funds on the Way for PCN Eradication in Idaho
USDA has allocated an additional $500,000 in emergency funding for the potato cyst nematode program in Idaho, according to the agency.
“This additional funding will enhance our efforts to eliminate these plant pests and safeguard American agriculture,” Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns said. “The emerald ash borer funding is for enhanced early detection efforts and strict quarantine enforcement while the potato cyst nematode money brings the program one step closer to eradication of the pest in Idaho.”
The PCN portion of the emergency funding is $500,000, which is in addition to nearly $24 million for PCN surveillance and eradication activities in Idaho. Specifically, the funding will advance intensive survey activities in seed potato fields, packing facilities and storage sheds. State and federal agricultural officials will also continue soil fumigations and quarantine enforcement to eradicate PCN in Idaho.
