Provision of Forest Pathology External Technical Services to the Forest Service

Description

Provision of a forest pathology diagnostic service to the Forest Service for the period from 17th November, 2014 to 17th November, 2016. This involves laboratory analysis of approximately 50 – 75 submitted samples. Forest pathology samples will normally be submitted to the laboratory via Forest Service. Detailed visual examination of submitted samples shall be carried out by the service provider. The service provider will be required to identify the cause of distinct signs or symptoms. All samples shall be examined with a view to the possible presence of an introduced quarantine organism. If before or during analysis a quarantine or previously unrecorded organism is suspected, the Forest Service must be immediately notified. Forest Service may submit multiple forest pathology samples with the same signs or symptoms taken from one or more locations or sites. All diagnostic results must be immediately reported in detail to Forest Service. If a full result is not available within one month of receipt of sample an interim report must be submitted. Samples and isolates must be stored by the laboratory for one year. The service must be in compliance with the provisions of the EU Plant Health Directive, Council Directive 2000/29/EC. The service must be in compliance with internationally recognised diagnostic protocols including current European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organisation (EPPO) diagnostic protocols.