Objective:
This MOU identifies the Parties in this cooperative program and defines in general terms the basis upon which the Parties will cooperate. The ultimate objective of this MOU between ARS, APHIS, and CSREES is to establish an understanding of how the Parties shall interrelate with each other and with other public, university, non-profit, industry, and other NCPN stakeholders to establish and support NCPN programs. A variety of mechanisms will be used to achieve the goals of this MOU such as joint program planning and implementation, and identifying and committing agency resources, as available, to NCPN activities.

Approach:
The purpose of the NCPN is to ensure the availability of high quality asexually propagated plant material that is free of targeted plant pathogens & pests that cause disease & resulting economic loss, to protect the environment, & ensure for the global competitiveness of specialty crop producers. The NCPN promotes disease & pest free specialty crops, rapid & safe introduction of new varieties from foreign sources, hygienic products for export, & a wholesome & abundant food supply. It attains these objectives by supplying pathogen & pest tested plant material for production of plants for planting. NCPN conducts research to improve its diagnostic & therapeutic services.