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May 30, 2002

USDA funds homeland security preparedness at Purdue

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – An $850,000 U.S. Department of Agriculture grant announced today (Thursday, 5/30) will enhance Purdue University programs aimed at detection and diagnosis of threats to plants and animals, as well as a disaster information program.

The $850,000 was part of total federal funding of more than $1.1 million for homeland security preparedness that will be shared between Purdue and the state of Indiana.

USDA Deputy Secretary Jim Moseley, of Clarks Hill, Ind., announced the grant along with Victor Lechtenberg, dean of Purdue's School of Agriculture, in the Morgan Conference Room of Purdue's Food Science Building. The money is part of $43 million being divided among the 50 states, U.S. territories and protectorates, and the Tribal Nations to strengthen the safety of the nation's food system. The government entities and universities will collaborate with the USDA to form a network focused on the rapid detection and identification of animal and plant diseases, pests and other contaminants that could create a national health threat.

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