Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is a crucial agency within the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) with a mission to safeguard the nation's agriculture, animal, and plant resources from pests and diseases. Established in 1972, APHIS is headquartered in Riverdale, Maryland.

Location and Facilities

APHIS is headquartered in Riverdale, Maryland, and operates numerous laboratories and testing facilities across the United States. These facilities are strategically located to enhance their capability to respond to agricultural health needs effectively.

Collaboration and Enhanced Testing Strategy

One of the key focus areas for APHIS has been its collaboration with state veterinarians to develop and implement an enhanced testing strategy. This collaboration aims to improve the efficacy and efficiency of disease detection and management within the agricultural sector, ensuring swift response to potential outbreaks. The collaboration brings about a unified front in dealing with animal health issues which are critical in maintaining food safety and security.

Financial Indicators

As a federal agency, APHIS operates with funding allocated by Congress. For the fiscal year 2023, the USDA budget allocated approximately $1.08 billion to APHIS. This funding supports a range of activities including disease surveillance, pest control efforts, and biosecurity initiatives (USDA Budget Summary).

Important Events and Achievements

Over the years, APHIS has been instrumental in eradicating diseases like bovine tuberculosis and brucellosis from livestock in many parts of the country. The agency's work has been crucial in managing and controlling outbreaks such as avian influenza, thereby protecting both domestic poultry industries and public health.

Future Plans

Looking forward, APHIS plans to strengthen its biosecurity measures and expand its partnerships with state agencies and international bodies. This includes enhancing its technological capabilities for faster disease diagnosis and expanding its risk assessment models to better predict and manage potential threats to U.S. agriculture.

Sources

• USDA Budget Summary 2023
• APHIS Official Website

Modified: 2025/02/02

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