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K-State Today

July 13, 2012

Kansas State University leaders comment on National Research Council report on NBAF options

Submitted by Communications and Marketing

The National Research Council released a new report today that assessed three options for the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility, located on the Kansas State University campus.

The report concluded that NBAF, not the Plum Island Animal Disease Center, is the right approach to addressing foreign pathogens.

"Kansas State University is pleased that the committee's latest report confirms that the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility is imperative," said Kirk Schulz, Kansas State University president. "It is a vote of confidence for NBAF in its currently planned form, and shows confidence in Kansas and the capabilities of United States researchers to effectively address emerging animal diseases that threaten the nation. We anticipate Kansas State playing an even more crucial role in that future security through our various animal and plant research initiatives. Moreover, we remain confident in our elected officials and agency planners as they work together to complete NBAF."

"The council's report, yet again, reaffirms that NBAF is vitally needed to confront foreign and emerging animal diseases that pose a catastrophic threat to the nation," said Ron Trewyn, Kansas State vice president for research. "We are certain that research conducted at NBAF, as well as at Kansas State, will be critical to maintaining food safety and security as well as public health in the United States. However, in addition to increasing costs, each additional study delays the nation's responsiveness to these threats."