Pest Survey specialists at DATCP collect and manage data on plant pests that threaten agricultural production and pose trade barriers. This program focuses on surveillance and early detection of economically significant pests, including insects, diseases, mollusks, nematodes and weeds. Data is collected through field-based sampling and from networks of cooperators across Wisconsin. Lab confirmation of disease pathogens and nematodes is provided by the Plant Industry Laboratory in Madison. The program conducts long-term historical pest surveys, while continually adapting and developing new surveys in response to emerging threats.
Much of the Pest Survey's work is carried out in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant and Health Inspection Service and other partners, such as the University of Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and researchers nationwide.The Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey (CAPS) Program provides coordination and funding for pest detection projects.