Emerald Ash Borer First Detector Training

Who are First Detectors?

First Detectors are volunteers trained to help citizens diagnose and report possible infestations of invasive species to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. First Detectors are a part of the National Plant Diagnostic Network (NPDN) First Detector Program which promotes the early detection of invasive plant pathogens, arthropods, nematodes and weeds.

First Detector workshops in 2009 will address the following invasive forest pests:

• Emerald ash borer
• Gypsy moth
• Asian longhorned beetle
• Sirex woodwasp.

The workshop curriculum assumes the ability to identify trees to genus with or without leaves and a familiarity and interest in working with the public.  Both current First Detectors (who attended training in 2008) and those new to the program are invited to attend 2009 workshops.

Requirements:

Becoming a First Detector requires that you agree to be contacted by citizens for help in diagnosing possible infestations of invasive species. However, you are not required to make site visits or incur costs in fulfilling these duties. You may attend training and elect not to be registered as a First Detector.

If you wish to become a registered First Detector and you did not attend training in 2008, you must complete a set of online modules (takes less than 1.5 hours) prior to attending the workshop. If you do not complete the modules, you can still attend the workshop but you cannot become a registered First Detector – details on accessing the modules are available in the agenda.

Tree Inspector Certification:

The Tree Inspector Certification Exam will be available after the workshop for those who wish to take it.  You must identify that you will take this exam when you register.

Workshop Dates and Locations:

Workshops will run from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Four workshops are scheduled for 2009:

• Farmington - April 1
• Farmington - April 2 - Full
• Lamberton - April 7
• Crookston - April 20

Registration:

Pre-registration is required. On-site registration will not be possible.

Agenda

Before the workshop:

Federal First Detector Program:
If you wish to become a registered First Detector and you did not attend training in 2008, you must complete a set of online modules (takes less than 1.5 hours) prior to attending the workshop:

• Module 1: Mission of the NPDN and Agricultural Biosecurity
• Module 2: Monitoring for High-Risk Pests
• Module 3: Quality and Secure Sample Submission (weeds, insects & diseases)

If you do not complete the modules, you can still attend the workshop but you cannot become a registered First Detector. Access and complete the modules.

At the workshop:

MDA Contact

Mark.Abrahamson@state.mn.us
Invasive Species Abatement Program
Plant Protection Division