M/A Glickman to Announce New Efforts to Combat West Nile Virus in New York
City

                                           Release No.  0091.00
Media Advisory
Not for publication
For planning purposes only
                              
                                    Susan McAvoy (202) 720-4623
                                                                                

GLICKMAN TO ANNOUNCE NEW EFFORTS TO COMBAT WEST NILE VIRUS IN NEW YORK CITY

     WASHINGTON, March 17, 2000 -- Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman will
launch a national tour on Tuesday, March 21 in New York City to highlight the
growing threat posed to American agriculture and our environment by invasive
pests and diseases.  

     In Ruppert Park, Glickman will be briefed on efforts to fight the deadly
West Nile virus and the voracious Asian longhorned beetle in the New York
area.  He will make announcements on new efforts to combat the West Nile
virus. In addition, he will examine the impact of the beetle on trees in the
park and discuss eradication and prevention efforts with federal, state and
local officials.  A brief press availability will follow.  


               WHO: Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman
               
                    WHAT:     Briefing on Asian longhorned beetle and West Nile Virus

                    WHERE:    Ruppert Park
               Between 2nd and 3rd Avenue on 92nd and 93rd Streets
               New York City, NY

               ** RAIN SITE **
                    200 East 94th Street, Across the Street from Ruppert
Park
                                        Follow USDA Signs

                    WHEN:     Tuesday, March 21, 2000
               1:30 p.m. EST
               [A brief press availability will follow.]

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