Plant Health Surveillance and Pest Response System

The Plant Health Surveillance and Pest Response System (PHS & PRS) is an initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries. The PHS & PRS is a modern, proactive surveillance system designed to prevent and eradicate the incidence of pest and disease in the Island.

The warning system is a collaborative construct pulling in the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) and the Plant Quarantine & Plant Health divisions (PQ/PI). Private sector organizations and other Public sector units also contribute to the ongoing upgrade of the project. This has enabled the development of a comprehensive, standardized plant health surveillance system which sustains trade both locally and internationally.

Major components of the systems include:

• Networking of related plant health agencies
• Training of farmers and staff to respond to pest and disease incidences
• Promoting public awareness
• Research application to existing and potential crises

Emergency Management Initiatives

Management measures applied by the PHS&PRS in the field consist of pest identification, pest diagnosis, pre- and post-harvest treatments, as well as quarantining areas identified with a pest/disease. There is a strong focus on the use of environment-friendly management initiatives. Minimum chemical intervention and pesticide monitoring is crucial in ensuring that there is minimal residual impact on the environment.

Several work plans are currently in force to treat and contain pest infestations of:

• Red Palm Mite
• Lime Swallowtail Butterfly
• Pink Hibiscus Mealybug