Serves on the National Plant Board, oversees state level pest detection and regulatory activities and coordinates survey activities between government agencies, public and private sector organizations. Also coordinates the state's initial emergency response if an exotic pest is detected.

Directs federal APHIS-PPQ pest detection and regulatory activities in cooperation with state officials, and coordinate the initial PPQ emergency response if an exotic pest is detected in the state.

Provides technical support to the SSC in planning, executing and reporting annual surveys and coordinates pest detection activities with neighboring states.