DHS is planning to establish a next-generation biological and agricultural defense facility.  Research in the proposed National Bio- and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) will be focused on high-risk biological threats involving human, zoonotic, and foreign animal diseases. NBAF will provide the critical integrated research and response capabilities required to protect human and agricultural health – enhancing the nation’s bio-defense infrastructure by securing the homeland from bio-terrorism.

Per the DHS proposal, the 500,000 square foot NBAF facility will encompass approximately 30 acres, replaced the aging research facility currently located at Plum Island, New York.  The site will include Biosafety Level 3 and Level 4 laboratories, supported by administrative offices. Approximately, 350 researchers and up to 100 support staff will be employed at NBAF.

DHS is evaluating each site based on the following criteria:

• Research Capabilities: The proposed site should be located in a comprehensive research community that has existing research programs pertaining to NBAF’s mission.
• Skilled Workforce: The proposed location should be in proximity to skilled research and technical staff, with expertise in operations conducted at biological and agricultural research facilities, and within proximity to training programs to develop skilled researchers and technical staff.
• Acquisition, Construction & Operations: The proposed site must have a minimum of 30 acres of available land that can be provided to the federal government at little or no cost, a readily accessible and sufficient infrastructure, and the consortium must be committed to working with DHS to complete an Environmental Impact Statement (required by NEPA).
• Community Acceptance: The consortium must gain community and agricultural stakeholder support and acceptance, or at a minimum, the community must not oppose locating NBAF at the proposed site.