RRD wasn't "lab created", but it was suggested by various universities that the mites which carry it should be released to control the R. multiflora the USDA GAVE AWAY to farmers and ranchers for several decades to provide "wildlife cover". That is very likely what the story is referring to. It was intended to control the multiflora rather than "wild floribunda" roses. I have no information about it every having finally been deliberately released or not, but it was widely suggested.
