As the National Swine Registry (NSR) events and education manager, Cora Key says the health of pigs and people is always a top priority when she’s organizing national and regional pig shows across the country.
“Our health rules and regulations are reviewed and approved by the department of agriculture from the state hosting the show,” Key explains. “We do a lot to prevent the spread of disease, including CVI’s issued within 30 days of the show, premise IDs on all animals exhibited, requirement of vaccination date and vial number, as well as movement permits on the CVI; all from a licensed and accredited veterinarian.”
But she’s quick to point out that it’s just a starting place.
To help exhibitors better understand the importance of biosecurity and their role in protecting the U.S. swine herd, NJSA is starting early by incorporating a new educational component into their youth programming.
Prioritizing Biosecurity
For the first time ever, The Exposition held in Indianapolis, Ind., on June 8-15, will include a biosecurity skillathon sponsored by Indiana Pork. The content of this skillathon will include topics ranging from disinfectants to foreign animal disease preparedness. In addition, exhibitors will take part in a catered awards ceremony with an AgView demonstration and a guest speaker talking about traceability.
“Prizes for youth will include disinfectant and other health and biosecurity related items, to take home to their herd. This sponsorship also includes a free exhibitor Wi-Fi that requires watching a biosecurity video to access,” Key says.
Advancing Traceability
In addition, buyers of premium trailer unloading spots will have the opportunity to volunteer to participate in an animal traceability data collection trial, supported by the Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio Pork Producers Associations, funded by a grant from the National Pork Board.
“Participants will be asked to create an AgView account and upload their animals’ RFID 840-tag and premises ID information to AgView prior to departing for the show,” Key adds.
RFIDs will be electronically captured during the vet check process, downloaded from the data capture device, and utilized in developing processes and procedures for implementing animal traceability practices for exhibition swine.
“When thinking about a showman’s path to protection, we encourage our exhibitors to stay ahead of the herd with AgView. This year at the Exposition those who purchase lots in our upcoming trailer auction will be offered the option to check in utilizing the AgView program and EID electronic scanners,” she says. “AgView allows us to secure today while being safe tomorrow. This data allows our exhibitors to have control over their records, while providing future proof for their farms back home.”
Read More:
What Are National Swine Shows Doing to Keep Influenza Out?
Don’t Get Left Behind: How to Keep Your Pig (and Your Showman) Healthy this Show Season
The Swientist Craze: Why Kids Are Lining Up to Learn About Swine Biosecurity
Glitter Snot and Virus Swapping: Hands-on Biosecurity Practice
