Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey (CAPS)
The USDA operates a program called the Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey (CAPS) which provides support to states to conduct pest detection activities beyond those that are conducted by the states. CAPS projects support the pest detection infrastructure in each state as well as providing funds for specific pest detection projects. Most of these projects are focused on high-risk exotic pests that do not exist or are of limited distribution in the United States. Early detection of new pests is critical to the early containment and possible eradication of these pests. A brief description of each of the current Kansas CAPS projects is listed below.
Core Project
This project provides resources to improve the infrastructure of the existing network of program cooperators involved in pest detection in Kansas. Improved communications between industry, extension, and other state cooperators will enhance the effectiveness of current programs and better utilize the resources available.
Emerald Ash Borer & Oak Splendour Beetle Outreach
Emerald Ash Borer is an important invasive pest that exists in parts of Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and Ohio. This project provides educational outreach to enhance the recognition of Emerald Ash Borer and the symptoms of its infestation. Presentation of informational materials, speaking engagements with concerned organizations, and meetings with industry are some of the methods used to improve public awareness of this pest. This increased awareness will greatly improve the chances for early detection making eradication or control a more manageable task.
Exotic Scarab Beetle Survey
The objective of this project is to determine the status of exotic Scarabs in Kansas. The data collected will be provided to USDA-APHIS-PPQ and can be used to determine appropriate response actions to the pests involved. The survey will include European Chafer (turf pest), Asiatic Garden Beetle (ornamental, landscape plants & turf pest), and Oriental Beetle.
Cereal Crop Nematode Survey
The purpose of this 3 year study is to provide early detection of infestations of exotic nematodes and general population information of endemic plant parasitic nematodes. The data provided will help support domestic and foreign exports of grain from Kansas and other states. It will also aid in determining best practices for movement of machinery across state lines. The entire state acreage on a prorated county basis will have been surveyed by the end of the project.
Karnal Bunt National Survey
Collecting and submitting wheat grain samples as part of the National Karnal Bunt survey is necessary to continue the export of Kansas wheat. Representative samples of wheat from each county in the state of Kansas are collected and submitted to USDA, where they are screened for the presence of Karnal Bunt.
The Kansas wheat industry is valued at over one billion dollars to the state each year. The ability to continue to export Kansas-grown wheat is essential to the success of this industry.
Witch Weed Survey
This project will provide valuable information on Witch Weed to NAPIS and KDA data bases. It will monitor known pathways, through seed or other means, for spread of the pest in corn and sorghum production fields. It will also provide a monitoring ability for the select agents Phillippine Downey Mildew and Downey Mildew.
CAPS Reports
2007-2008 CAPS 3rd Quarter Report
2007-2008 CAPS 2nd Quarter Report
2007-2008 CAPS 1st Quarter Report
CAPS Committee Minutes
CAPS Commitee Minutes - 12/19/2007
2008 Work Plans
2008 Cereal Nematode Work Plan