Event

Phytoplasma Molecular Detection
In-person
March 11-12, 2026

The Phytoplasma Molecular Detection Workshop will be returning in 2025. This 2-day workshop provides an introduction on Phytoplasmas, their taxonomy and disease symptoms associated with some of these bacterial pathogens of interest to APHIS PPQ. The hands-on portion of the training will focus on available phytoplasma-infected samples and cover sample preparation, DNA extraction/purification, molecular assays, and interpretation of results.

Implementation of Good Lab Practices for DNA extraction & qPCR
In-person

Phytophthora 101
in-person
March 02-06, 2026

The Phytophthora 101 Workshop is a 4-and-a-half-day, in-person program combining lectures with hands-on lab activities. The workshop covers DNA extraction methods from host woody and leaf tissue, real-time PCR protocols for diagnosing the Phytophthora kernoviae complex (ITS1 and ITS2 assays), and P. ramorum (ITS and Elicitin assays), as well as results interpretation. Each day includes lectures, lab work, and discussions on participant results, troubleshooting, and best lab practices for optimal outcomes.

Plant Pathogen Diagnostic Certification Program

Virtual

Plant Pathogen Diagnostic Certification Program

Virtual

Registration opens Mon, Nov 3 2025 at 3:00 pm eastern. Attend this webinar to learn more. 

Registration for the 2026 PPCDL and MFIT Workshops will open 11-03-25 and close 11-11-25.

To help those that plan to register for one or both types of workshops, we will be offering an informational webinar about the registration process for the 2026 workshop season. Registration will open at the beginning of this webinar.

Webinar Title: How to register for the 2026 PPCDL and MFIT Workshops.

Date: Monday, November 03, 2025 

Time: 3:00 - 4:00 pm EST 

This presentation highlights the continued need for Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and outlines strategic goals for strengthening the public IPM enterprise. Despite shifts to competitive funding following the 2008 Farm Bill, a national network of 53 state programs and 4 regional centers has been maintained. The focus now is on enhancing collaboration, improving infrastructure, increasing IPM awareness, and expanding involvement beyond traditional pest disciplines.