USDA’s NBAF Faces Delays in High-Risk Pathogen Research

By Scout Nelson

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) opened the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan, Kansas, in 2023 as a major investment in protecting U.S. agriculture from animal and crop diseases. The $1.25 billion facility was built to support research on some of the world's most dangerous agricultural pathogens.

Despite being operational for three years, NBAF is still unable to conduct research on the high-risk microbes it was designed to study, according to the American Association of Swine Veterinarians. Scientists are currently limited to lower-risk activities, including vaccine development with inactivated viruses and disease surveillance projects.

A recent report from USDA’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) identified design and construction shortcomings linked to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The report found that several biosafety concerns must be resolved before work can begin with pathogens such as foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and African swine fever.

These pathogens are classified as select agents and require biosafety level-3 (BSL-3) laboratories. Such facilities depend on specialized containment measures, including negative air pressure systems and sealed laboratory surfaces to prevent accidental release.

USDA has stated that it plans to correct the identified BSL-3 deficiencies by spring 2027. The agency estimates the work will cost approximately $78 million.

However, USDA has not established a timeline for additional upgrades needed for the facility’s biosafety level-4 (BSL-4) laboratories. These labs are intended for research on highly dangerous pathogens such as Nipah and Hendra viruses, which can affect both animals and humans.

The OIG report highlighted ongoing issues with room seals and air pressure systems that must be addressed before advanced research can proceed. Once completed, the BSL-4 laboratories will include specialized containment features and protective systems required for studying the highest-risk pathogens.

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