MDARD lab sets standards in plant disease diagnostics

By Andi Anderson

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) Plant Pathology Laboratory has achieved a historic milestone as the first lab in the United States to receive Core Accreditation from the National Plant Diagnostic Network (NPDN).

This accreditation, effective as of October 1, 2024, sets a high benchmark in plant disease diagnostics and highlights MDARD’s dedication to quality and precision.

This achievement is a significant step for Michigan’s agriculture and environmental sectors. "This national achievement sets the bar for producing high-quality plant diagnostics for Michigan’s nursery and agricultural industries," said MDARD Director Tim Boring.

The accreditation underscores MDARD’s commitment to enhancing the quality of its diagnostic services and improving response readiness for new plant diseases.

The NPDN, comprising 70 diagnostic labs nationwide, established the Core Accreditation Program to elevate quality standards and support a proactive approach to diagnosing and controlling new plant pests and pathogens.

Core Accreditation assures that participating labs, like MDARD’s, meet rigorous standards in areas such as accuracy, timely detection, and minimizing the spread of exotic pathogens.

To achieve this status, MDARD’s Plant Pathology Lab underwent a thorough evaluation, including audits of its procedures, record-keeping practices, and equipment maintenance. The lab’s diagnostic methods include using microscopy, culture isolation, molecular tests, and serological tests to detect bacteria, fungi, viruses, and phytoplasmas. 

These tools allow the lab to identify diseases like boxwood blight, Beech leaf disease, and bacterial ring rot in potatoes.

In addition to diagnostic services, the Plant Pathology Lab provides export certification and survey services to support Michigan’s agricultural trade and ecological safety.

MDARD’s lab collaborates closely with the Michigan State University Plant Diagnostic Lab, USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), and other organizations to ensure coordinated responses to invasive diseases.

Through this groundbreaking accreditation, MDARD’s Plant Pathology Lab strengthens its role as a leader in plant health diagnostics, ensuring Michigan’s agriculture and natural resources remain protected.

Photo Credit: pexels-greta-hoffman