As a USDA stake holder, I would like to see continued support with %Bite Protection Testing of Military Uniforms to include testing on contract items and R&D items. This biological testing is extremely valuable because the chemistry testing does not tell the entire story as to the efficacy of an item. The rapport between the Textile Materials Evaluation Team (NSRDEC) and Dr. Bernier has led to some new ways of thinking about the relationship between materials and permethrin application. Continuing to foster this type of collaboration may someday lead to better protection for our troops, whether from new/novel repellents or from material systems.