United States Department of Agriculture
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
Remote Pest Identification Program
The Remote Pest Identification Program is coordinated through the Office of the Deputy Administrator and provides advanced digital imaging technology and microscopy equipment to Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) Identifiers and National Specialists at locations around the country. These tools facilitate the pest identification process by enhancing communication between port personnel and taxonomic experts allowing for faster processing of imported cargo at US ports of entry.
Remote pest identification activities have been evolving since PPQ implemented its first digital imaging systems in 1996. The current program focuses on the distribution and technical support of digital imaging systems specially designed to meet the needs of the PPQ Identifier community.