Strengthening the Environmental Quality Laboratory of the Central Veterinary Laboratory, Bamako, Mali
PI(s): Mullins, Donald E, Hipkins, Patricia A., Cobb, Jean M
Investigators: Gabbert, Sandra
Abstract: Virginia Tech has committed to an Integrated Pest Management Collaborative Research Support Program (IPM CRSP) 5-year project to provide assistance in developing the capabilities of the Environmental Quality Laboratory (EQL) as a leader in pesticide analytical techniques in Mali and West Africa. Another component of the project is pesticide safety education. Pesticide safety will promote personal and environmental safety. Delivery of pesticide safety lessons will be coordinated with demonstrations of IPM practices developed for horticultural crops in Mali. Proper pesticide use will allow the laboratory to function in a quality assurance role. Several Virginia Tech Personnel are providing technical and educational assistance to this laboratory.
Description:
The Environmental Toxicology and Quality Control Laboratory (ETQCL) of the Central Veterinary Laboratory (CVL) has a comprehensive mandate that reflects the needs of Mali and the West African region. This mandate was identified initially during its conception dating back to 1994, and more clearly articulated the past year as the laboratory began initial operation. The expectations for expertise by the EQL span the range of testing for possible pesticide or other toxic chemicals in the environment and the human population. Primary tasks identified as part of the comprehensive mandate for the laboratory included training in pesticide residue analysis, identification and usage. The activities included: a) providing residue data for pesticides on or in crops, food or medicinal products intended for human or animal consumption in Mali and other countries of West Africa and for export to global markets, especially Europe and the United States, b). developing a database for identification of commercial and contraband formulated pesticides and a strategy for the selective use of appropriate pesticides through the West Africa. This information can be used to assist in the development of standardization (homologation) of pesticides used throughout the subregion, c). developing the necessary database and programs to help vendors and farmers in the selection and use of pesticides in a safe and more environmentally sound basis and, d). assisting by providing data and developing programs to reduce and manage pesticide wastes from farm or other operations. D. E. Mullins and P. A Hipkins (Entomology) and J. M. Cobb (Biochemistry) visited the ETQCL Laboratory annually to assist in developing the laboratory capabilities and a pesticide application/safety program. In addition, the Virginia Tech team hosted laboratory personnel from the ETQCL annually to provide training experiences in the Virginia Tech Pesticide Residue Laboratory.
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Disciplines: Environmental Quality, Integrated Pest Management, Pesticides
Audiences: Graduate Students
