Pathways Survey

The survey is conducted at a variety of agricultural sites across Minnesota, including:

• Community gardens
• Community supported agriculture (CSA) farms
• Small and immigrant-operated farms
• Orchards
• Vineyards
• Berry farms

Sites are located in both urban and rural areas. Emphasis is placed on population centers, where new pests are more likely to be introduced through human activity.

The MDA works with the United States Department of Agriculture and the University of Minnesota (U of M) to identify pests and pathogens that may pose the greatest risk to Minnesota agriculture. Pests are assessed using criteria such as:

• Likelihood of arrival in the near future
• How common their host plants are in Minnesota’s farms and natural areas
• Ability to survive Minnesota’s climate, including cold temperatures

The list of target species is updated each year as new information becomes available. Pheromone-baited traps and visual inspections are used to monitor for insect species, insect life stages, and host damage. Plants are also inspected for symptoms of plant diseases, and tissue samples are removed from plants showing symptoms of target pathogens for diagnostic lab testing.

Not all pests pose the same level of threat to Minnesota agriculture, so when a pest is found our response varies.

• Some pests are not regulated. If we find pests that are not regulated, we focus on education and outreach to growers about the pest(s) of concern.
• Some pests are regulated, either locally or federally. If we find pests that are regulated, several things could happen, including:
  • Restrictions on movement of plants or goods
  • Limitations on exports
  • Efforts to control or eradicate the pest

In addition, upon finding a new pest, the MDA also works to track pests after they arrive in Minnesota to determine their spread and scope within the state.

The Pathways Survey allows for meaningful interaction between growers, the public, and the MDA in regards toin regard to invasive species. It is our hope that the survey will continue to facilitate a partnership with the community to protect our local agriculture systems. 

Additionally, early detection of a new pest provides the best opportunity to reduce its impact on our state.

If you suspect a new or invasive pest in your garden or operation, or if you would like survey results from previous years, visit the MDA Report a Pest page for information for more information.