INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS FOR PHYTOSANITARY MEASURES
ISPM 9
GUIDELINES FOR PEST ERADICATION PROGRAMMES
(1998)
ProducedProduced by the Secretariat
of the International Plant Protection Convention
© FAO 2011
Publication history
This is not an official part of the standard
1995-09 TC-RPPOs added topic Eradication (1995-001)
1996-05 CEPM-3 added Guidelines for Eradication Programmes
1996-12 EWG developed draft text
1997-10 CEPM-4 revised draft text and approved for MC
1998 Sent for MC
1998-05 CEPM-5 revised draft text for adoption
1998-11 ICPM-1 adopted standard
ISPM 9. 1998. Guidelines for pest eradication programmes. Rome, IPPC, FAO.
Publication history: Last modified August 2011
© FAO 2011
Publication history
This is not an official part of the standard
1995-09 TC-RPPOs added topic Eradication (1995-001)
1996-05 CEPM-3 added Guidelines for Eradication Programmes
1996-12 EWG developed draft text
1997-10 CEPM-4 revised draft text and approved for MC
1998 Sent for MC
1998-05 CEPM-5 revised draft text for adoption
1998-11 ICPM-1 adopted standard
ISPM 9. 1998. Guidelines for pest eradication programmes. Rome, IPPC, FAO.
Publication history: Last modified August 2011
Adoption............................................................................................................................................... 9-5
INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................................ 9-5
Scope .................................................................................................................................................... 9-5
References ............................................................................................................................................ 9-5
Definitions............................................................................................................................................ 9-5
Outline of Requirements ...................................................................................................................... 9-5
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR PEST ERADICATION PROGRAMMES ............................... 9-7
1. General Information and Planning Processes ............................................................................... 9-7
1.1 Evaluation of pest reports.............................................................................................. 9-7
1.2 Contingency plans......................................................................................................... 9-7
1.3 Reporting requirements and information sharing.......................................................... 9-7
2. Decision to Undertake an Eradication Programme....................................................................... 9-7
2.1 Initiation ........................................................................................................................ 9-8
2.2 Identification ................................................................................................................. 9-8
2.3 Estimating present and potential pest distribution ........................................................ 9-8
2.3.1 Initial investigation........................................................................................................ 9-8
2.3.1.1 Data gathered at the site of detection or occurrence ..................................................... 9-8
2.3.1.2 Geographical origin....................................................................................................... 9-9
2.3.1.3 Pathways of the pest...................................................................................................... 9-9
2.3.2 Survey for distribution .................................................................................................. 9-9
2.3.3 Predicting spread........................................................................................................... 9-9
2.4 Feasibility of undertaking an eradication programme................................................... 9-9
2.4.1 Biological and economic information........................................................................... 9-9
2.4.2 Conducting cost-benefit analysis for eradication programmes ................................... 9-10
3. Eradication Process..................................................................................................................... 9-10
3.1 Establishment of a management team......................................................................... 9-10
3.2 Conducting the eradication programme ...................................................................... 9-11
3.2.1 Surveillance................................................................................................................. 9-11
3.2.2 Containment ................................................................................................................ 9-11
3.2.3 Treatment and/or control measures............................................................................. 9-11
3.3 Verification of pest eradication................................................................................... 9-12
3.4 Documentation ............................................................................................................ 9-12
3.5 Declaration of eradication........................................................................................... 9-12
4. Programme Review..................................................................................................................... 9-12
Adoption
This standard was adopted by the First Session of the Interim Commission on Phytosanitary Measures in November 1998.
INTRODUCTION
Scope
This standard describes the components of a pest eradication programme which can lead to the establishment or re-establishment of pest absence in an area.
References
IPPC. 1997. International Plant Protection Convention. Rome, IPPC, FAO.
ISPM 1. 1993. Principles of plant quarantine as related to international trade. Rome, IPPC, FAO. [published 1995] [revised; now ISPM 1: 2006]
ISPM 2. 1995. Guidelines for pest risk analysis. Rome, IPPC, FAO. [published 1996] [revised; now ISPM 2: 2007]
ISPM 4. 1995. Requirements for the establishment of pest free areas. Rome, IPPC, FAO. [published 1996]
ISPM 5. Glossary of phytosanitary terms. Rome, IPPC, FAO.
ISPM 6. 1997. Guidelines for surveillance. Rome, IPPC, FAO.
ISPM 8. 1998. Determination of pest status in an area. Rome, IPPC, FAO.
WTO. 1994. Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures. Geneva, World Trade Organization.
Definitions
Definitions of phytosanitary terms used in the present standard can be found in ISPM 5 (Glossary of phytosanitary terms). The term and definition below were adopted as part of the present ISPM, but were amended subsequent to adoption of the standard. The new definition of this term does not conform to the use of the term in the present ISPM, and this term and definition are retained for the purpose of the present standard only, until it has been revised.
outbreak
An isolated pest population, recently detected and expected to survive for the immediate future.
Outline of Requirements
A programme for pest eradication may be developed by a national plant protection organization (NPPO) as:
- an emergency measure to prevent establishment and/or spread of a pest following its recent entry (re-establish a pest free area), or
- a measure to eliminate an established pest (establish a pest free area).
After a preliminary investigation that includes the consideration of data collected at the site(s) of detection or occurrence, the extent of the infestation, information on the biology and potential economic impact of the pest, current technology and available resources for eradication, a cost-benefit analysis of the pest eradication programme should be undertaken. Whenever possible, it is also useful to gather information concerning the geographical origin of the pest, and pathways for its reintroduction. Pest risk analysis (PRA) provides a scientific basis for informed decision-making (see ISPM 2:1995). From these studies, one or more options should be made available to decision-makers. However, in an emergency situation, the benefits of speed of action in preventing spread may outweigh the benefits normally achieved through a more structured approach.
The eradication process involves three main activities: surveillance, containment, and treatment and/or control measures.
When an eradication programme is completed, the absence of the pest must be verified. The verification procedure should use criteria established at the beginning of the programme and should be supported by adequate documentation of programme activities and results. The verification stage is integral to the programme, and should involve independent analysis if trading partners require this reassurance. Successful programmes result in a declaration of eradication by the NPPO. When unsuccessful, all aspects of the programme should be reviewed, including the biology of the pest to determine if new information is available, and the cost-benefit of the programme.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR PEST ERADICATION PROGRAMMES
This standard provides guidance on the development of a pest eradication programme and for reviewing the procedures of an existing eradication programme. In most instances, the pests considered for these programmes have newly entered the area where eradication is undertaken, and emergency eradication measures may be needed. However, eradication programmes may also be directed toward established exotic pests or indigenous pests in defined areas.
1. General Information and Planning Processes
1.1 Evaluation of pest reports
NPPOs should systematically evaluate pest reports and the impact of these pests to determine if eradication is required. This evaluation will involve reporting to an official contact point and assessment by experts capable of considering the importance of the pest report and of recommending a course of action.
1.2 Contingency plans
It is desirable to have contingency plans to address specific pests or pest groups that have a high potential for introduction, and for which an eradication plan is deemed to be both feasible and necessary, before the pest is found in an area. The development of such plans is advantageous because it provides additional time for deliberation, evaluation and research necessary to ensure that an eradication programme is well designed and can be executed quickly and effectively. Such plans are particularly important where cooperative programmes are anticipated, as they allow for the actions of cooperating parties to be specified and agreed upon prior to implementing the programme. Knowledge gained from previous successful eradication programmes can be extremely useful for developing contingency plans or judging the feasibility of eradication programmes under consideration. A general contingency plan is also particularly useful for ensuring rapid action in the case of emergency eradication measures.
It should be recognized that the biology of pests varies considerably as do the technologies available for eradication. Therefore, not all the factors listed in this standard for consideration will be of value in planning every eradication programme.
1.3 Reporting requirements and information sharing
Verification of the occurrence of a new pest of immediate or potential danger initiates the process that leads to reporting requirements for the NPPO under the International Plant Protection Convention (see Article VII.2(j) and Article VIII.1(a) and VIII.1(c)) and is described in ISPM 8:1998.
Prior to the implementation of a pest eradication programme, public information programmes or other means for sharing information with broader audiences such as growers, residents, and local governments, should be considered for raising the level of awareness and understanding of the programme.
2. Decision to Undertake an Eradication Programme
The decision to undertake an eradication programme results from an evaluation of the circumstances of detection of a pest, its identification, the risk identified by a pest-initiated PRA, estimation of the present and potential distribution of the pest, and assessment of the feasibility of conducting an eradication programme. It is normally good practice to give due consideration to all the elements recommended. However, this approach may be limited in practice by the availability of data and resources. Particularly in cases where emergency eradication measures seem necessary (e.g. recent entry of a pest capable of rapid dispersal), the need to take action rapidly should be carefully balanced and may outweigh the benefits of more detailed analyses and planning.
2.1 Initiation
The eradication programme may be initiated by detection of a new pest arising from general surveillance or specific surveys (see ISPM 6:1997). In the case of established pests, the eradication programme will be initiated by policy considerations (e.g. a decision taken to establish a pest free area).
2.2 Identification
Accurate identification of the pest is essential so that the appropriate means of eradication can be selected. NPPOs should proceed with the identification process recognizing that it may have to withstand scientific or legal challenge. Therefore, it may be appropriate to have the identification confirmed by acknowledged independent experts.
Identification may be immediate when the pest is easily and confidently recognized by the NPPO.
Identification methods may range from recognition based only on morphological characteristics to more sophisticated bioassay, chemical or genetic analyses. The method ultimately adopted by the NPPO will depend on the organism in question and the most widely accepted and practical means to confirm identification.
In cases where a conclusive identification is not immediately possible, the actions to be taken may be justified by other factors such as the extent of damage to host plants. In these circumstances it is important to conserve specimens for possible future analysis.
2.3 Estimating present and potential pest distribution
An estimate of the present distribution of the pest is necessary for both new and established pests. The potential distribution is usually of greater importance for new pests, but may have relevance as well in evaluating established pests. The data elements identified for initial investigation include a level of detail not necessarily required for a programme directed toward established pests.
2.3.1 Initial investigation
Data associated with the detection of a new pest, the geographical origin of the pest, and the pathway, should be compiled and reviewed. This information is not only useful for decision-making related to eradication, but is also helpful for identifying and correcting weaknesses in pest exclusion systems that may have contributed to the entry of the pest.
2.3.1.1 Data gathered at the site of detection or occurrence
Information should be gathered concerning the pest and conditions at the site of detection or occurrence, including:
- geographical location
- hosts infested at the site
- extent and impact of damage and level of pest prevalence
- how the pest was detected and identified
- recent imports of plants or plant products
- history of the pest on the property or in the area
- movement of people, products, equipment, conveyances
- mechanism of spread within the area
entry of a pest capable of rapid dispersal), the need to take action rapidly should be carefully balanced and may outweigh the benefits of more detailed analyses and planning.
2.1 Initiation
The eradication programme may be initiated by detection of a new pest arising from general surveillance or specific surveys (see ISPM 6:1997). In the case of established pests, the eradication programme will be initiated by policy considerations (e.g. a decision taken to establish a pest free area).
2.2 Identification
Accurate identification of the pest is essential so that the appropriate means of eradication can be selected. NPPOs should proceed with the identification process recognizing that it may have to withstand scientific or legal challenge. Therefore, it may be appropriate to have the identification confirmed by acknowledged independent experts.
Identification may be immediate when the pest is easily and confidently recognized by the NPPO.
Identification methods may range from recognition based only on morphological characteristics to more sophisticated bioassay, chemical or genetic analyses. The method ultimately adopted by the NPPO will depend on the organism in question and the most widely accepted and practical means to confirm identification.
In cases where a conclusive identification is not immediately possible, the actions to be taken may be justified by other factors such as the extent of damage to host plants. In these circumstances it is important to conserve specimens for possible future analysis.
2.3 Estimating present and potential pest distribution
An estimate of the present distribution of the pest is necessary for both new and established pests. The potential distribution is usually of greater importance for new pests, but may have relevance as well in evaluating established pests. The data elements identified for initial investigation include a level of detail not necessarily required for a programme directed toward established pests.
2.3.1 Initial investigation
Data associated with the detection of a new pest, the geographical origin of the pest, and the pathway, should be compiled and reviewed. This information is not only useful for decision-making related to eradication, but is also helpful for identifying and correcting weaknesses in pest exclusion systems that may have contributed to the entry of the pest.
2.3.1.1 Data gathered at the site of detection or occurrence
Information should be gathered concerning the pest and conditions at the site of detection or occurrence, including:
- geographical location
- hosts infested at the site
- extent and impact of damage and level of pest prevalence
- how the pest was detected and identified
- recent imports of plants or plant products
- history of the pest on the property or in the area
- movement of people, products, equipment, conveyances
- mechanism of spread within the area
- possible eradication strategies:
. financial and resource costs
. availability of the technology
. logistical and operational limitations
- impact on industry and the environment:
. without eradication
. with each eradication option identified.
2.4.2 Conducting cost-benefit analysis for eradication programmes
One of the first actions to be taken is the preparation of a list of the most feasible eradication techniques. The total cost and the cost-benefit ratio for each strategy should be estimated over the short and long term. The option to take no action, or to take a pest management approach, should be considered as well as eradication options.
All feasible options should be described or discussed with decision-makers. Anticipated advantages and disadvantages, including cost-benefit should be outlined to the extent possible. One or more options should be recommended, recognizing that the ultimate decision requires consideration of the technical options, cost-benefit, the availability of resources, and political and socio-economic factors.
3. Eradication Process
The eradication process involves the establishment of a management team followed by the conduct of the eradication programme, which should, where possible, follow an established plan. Three main activities are included in the programme:
- surveillance: to fully investigate the distribution of the pest
- containment: to prevent the spread of the pest
- treatment: to eradicate the pest when it is found.
Direction and coordination should be provided by a management authority (normally the NPPO), ensuring that criteria are established to determine when eradication has been achieved and that appropriate documentation and process controls exist to provide sufficient confidence in the results. It may be necessary to consult with trading partners over some aspects of the eradication process.
3.1 Establishment of a management team
A management team is established to provide direction and coordination to eradication activities once it has been decided to undertake an eradication programme. The size of the management team will vary depending on the scope of the programme and the resources available to the NPPO. Large programmes may require a steering committee or an advisory group including the various interest groups that may be affected. Where a programme includes several countries, a regional steering committee should be considered.
The management team should have responsibility for:
- ensuring that the eradication programme meets the agreed criteria for successful eradication
- formulating, implementing, and modifying as necessary an eradication plan
- ensuring programme operators have appropriate authority and training to undertake their duties
- financial and resource management
- appointing and defining duties of operators, ensuring operators understand their responsibilities, and documenting their activities
- managing communication, including a public relations programme
- communicating with affected parties, e.g. growers, traders, other government departments and non-governmental organizations
- implementing an information management system, including programme documentation and appropriate record-keeping
- daily management of the programme
- continuous monitoring and evaluation of critical elements
- periodic overall programme review.
3.2 Conducting the eradication programme
3.2.1 Surveillance
A delimiting survey should be completed either initially or to confirm earlier surveys. Monitoring surveys should then continue in accordance with the eradication plan to check the distribution of the pest and assess the effectiveness of the eradication programme (see ISPM 6:1997). Surveillance may include a pathway analysis to identify the source of the pest and its possible spread, the inspection of clonally and/or contact-linked material, inspection, trapping, and aerial observation. This may also include targeted inquiries to growers, those responsible for storage and handling facilities, and the public.
3.2.2 Containment
The NPPO should define a quarantine area using surveillance information. The initial investigations will provide information that is used to identify plants, plant products, or other articles whose movement out of the quarantine area needs to be regulated to prevent the spread of the pest. Owners of affected plants, plant products and other regulated articles should be notified of the regulations. Others interested or affected by regulations should also be provided with adequate information. It may be appropriate to verify compliance using methods described in the eradication plan.
Arrangements should be made for the release of plants, plant products or other regulated articles from the quarantine area, by clearance following verification of compliance with phytosanitary measures such as inspection, treatment or destruction. Provision should be made for the withdrawal of regulations when an eradication programme has been declared to be successful.
3.2.3 Treatment and/or control measures
Methods to eradicate pests may include:
- host destruction
- disinfestation of equipment and facilities
- chemical or biological pesticide treatment
- soil sterilants
- leaving land fallow
- host-free periods
- the use of cultivars that suppress or eliminate pest populations
- restriction of subsequent cropping
- trapping, lures or other physical control methods
- inundative release of biological control agents
- use of sterile insect technique
- processing or consumption of infested crop.
In most cases, eradication will involve the use of more than one treatment option. The selection of treatment and/or control options may be limited by legislative restrictions or other factors. In such situations, exceptions for emergency or limited use may be available to the NPPO.
3.3 Verification of pest eradication
This involves verification by the management authority (normally the NPPO) that the criteria for successful pest eradication established at the beginning of the programme have been achieved. The criteria may specify the intensity of the detection method and how long the survey must continue to verify the absence of the pest. The minimum period of time of pest freedom to verify eradication will vary according to the biology of the pest, but should take into consideration factors such as:
- sensitivity of detection technology
- ease of detection
- life cycle of the pest
- climatic effects
- efficacy of treatment.
The eradication plan should specify the criteria for a declaration of eradication and steps for the withdrawal of regulations.
3.4 Documentation
NPPOs should ensure that records are kept of information supporting all stages of the eradication process. It is essential that NPPOs maintain such documentation in case trading partners request information to support claims of pest freedom.
3.5 Declaration of eradication
A declaration of eradication by the NPPO follows the completion of a successful eradication programme. The status of the pest in the area is then “absent: pest eradicated” (see ISPM 8:1998). It involves communication with affected and interested parties, as well as appropriate authorities concerning the fulfilment of programme objectives. Programme documentation and other relevant evidence supporting the declaration should be made available to other NPPOs upon request.
4. Programme Review
Throughout the eradication, the programme should be subject to periodic review to analyse and assess information gathered, to check that objectives are being achieved, and/or to determine if changes are required. Reviews should take place at:
- any time when unforeseen circumstances are encountered that could affect the programme
- pre-set intervals
- the termination of the programme.
Where the criteria for eradication are not met, the eradication plan should be reviewed. This review should take into account any newly gained knowledge that might have contributed to that result. Cost-benefit factors and operational details should be reviewed to identify inconsistencies with initial predictions. Depending on the outcome, a new eradication plan may be developed or altered to become a pest suppression or pest management programme.
