In this report, La Follette students conduct a cost-benefit analysis on eDNA technology for invasive species detection.
Summary
This report evaluates the introduction of a new environmental DNA (eDNA) rapid test to complement existing strategies for the detection of invasive rats on Pacific islands, which, under development by the United States Department of Agriculture, seeks to create an effective and accurate alternative to current testing methods. The results show this rapid test serves to reduce costs for localities, both financially and in the form of time saved, while providing accurate results on the presence of invasive species.
Information
- Course: Cost-Benefit Analysis Public Affairs 881 taught by Morgan Edwards, Fall 2025
- Authors: Emma Baumgartner, Mohammad Eshaghi, Yoonjin Im, Connor Smith, and Graham Stier
- Client: United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service