Officials in Kansas are closely monitoring waterfowl populations at Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area and Quivira National Wildlife Refuge after dead geese were observed in the wetlands. Staff at both areas picked up dead birds recently and sent samples for testing.
Lab results confirmed that avian cholera, a contagious disease resulting from infection by the bacterium Pasteurella multocida, was the cause of death. This strain of bacteria commonly affects geese, coots, gulls and crows. Most of the dead birds found have been snow geese.
“We picked up about 30 dead geese on December 14,” said Karl Grover, Cheyenne manager. “Those birds had died between [Dec. 11 and Dec. 14], so we’re seeing about 10 dead birds a day. We estimate that the Bottoms is holding between 75,000 and 150,000 geese, half of which are snows, and about 10,000 ducks.”
USFWS staff at Quivira NWR gave similar estimates. Refuge manager Mike Oldham said some geese moved off of the refuge after the weekend.
“We probably have about 80,000 geese and about half of them are snow geese,” Oldham said. “We’re picking up about 4-5 dead birds per day.”
While it’s not uncommon for a contagious disease to affect waterfowl when large numbers are concentrated, avian cholera deaths are not common in Kansas. According to the USGS National Wildlife Health Center, humans are not at high risk for infection with the bacteria strain causing avian cholera. However, it’s recommended that hunters and their dogs avoid contact with any sick or dead birds.
Avian cholera quickly overcomes infected birds, resulting in death in as little as 6-12 hours, although 24-48 hours is more common. Infected birds may exhibit signs such as convulsions, throwing head back between wings, swimming in circles, erratic flight and miscalculated landing attempts.
Avian cholera should not be confused with avian influenza, which is a highly pathogenic virus that infected millions of poultry flocks in the upper Midwest last summer.
Wednesday, January 13, 2016
Zoetis to sell some animal health brands, manufacturing unit
Indian drug company Zydus Cadila will acquire select animal health brands and a manufacturing unit from Zoetis Inc., according to reports. One news outlet reported the deal at $29 million.
Zydus says the acquisition will help the company gain access to a wide range of nutrition and therapeutic products.
'We believe that this strategic acquisition will strengthen our portfolio of brands and add new dimensions to our growth in the animal health business. We see this as an opportunity to catapult our business to higher levels of excellence,' Zydus Cadila Chairman and Managing Director Pankaj R. Patel said.
Last month, Zoetis reported that it had sold three facilities in North Carolina, Colorado and Arkansas to Huvepharma in a deal valued at $40 million.
In November 2015, Zoetis held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of its new global production and supply facility in Suzhou, China.
In July 2015, Zoetis agreed to acquire KL Products to strengthen its automation technology for poultry hatchery operations. The privately held company headquartered in London, Ontario, Canada, is a leader in automation systems for the poultry industry.
And in May 2015, Zoetis reported flat revenue in the first quarter of 2015, and announced a comprehensive operational efficiency initiative to enhance its long-term competitive position and profitability, which includes slashing $300 million in annual costs by 2017 and cutting at least 20 percent of its workforce.
Zydus says the acquisition will help the company gain access to a wide range of nutrition and therapeutic products.
'We believe that this strategic acquisition will strengthen our portfolio of brands and add new dimensions to our growth in the animal health business. We see this as an opportunity to catapult our business to higher levels of excellence,' Zydus Cadila Chairman and Managing Director Pankaj R. Patel said.
Last month, Zoetis reported that it had sold three facilities in North Carolina, Colorado and Arkansas to Huvepharma in a deal valued at $40 million.
In November 2015, Zoetis held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of its new global production and supply facility in Suzhou, China.
In July 2015, Zoetis agreed to acquire KL Products to strengthen its automation technology for poultry hatchery operations. The privately held company headquartered in London, Ontario, Canada, is a leader in automation systems for the poultry industry.
And in May 2015, Zoetis reported flat revenue in the first quarter of 2015, and announced a comprehensive operational efficiency initiative to enhance its long-term competitive position and profitability, which includes slashing $300 million in annual costs by 2017 and cutting at least 20 percent of its workforce.
Aviagen Turkeys acquiring France’s Le Sayec
Aviagen Turkeys has announced the company is acquiring Le Sayec, a family owned business responsible for the selling of commercial turkey eggs and poults within France.
Le Sayec also exports throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
“We are very excited about this acquisition, which is good news for both companies and for the turkey industry,” said Clay Burrows, managing director of Aviagen Turkeys. “There has been much consolidation within the industry over the last decade and because of this there is a need for us to operate further down the supply chain and the acquisition of Le Sayec will allow us to be closer to our end user. We look forward to continuing to build relationships and adding value for both our integrated and independent customers using our own Aviagen products, while continuing to develop the B.U.T. and Nicholas brands."
Patrice Le Sayec, managing director of Le Sayec, said: “My family and I are very pleased with this acquisition and believe there are many synergies between the two companies. We have been working with Aviagen Turkeys for many years and because of this it will be a very smooth transition. I will continue to manage the business going forward and I’m excited to be part of the Aviagen Group.”
Founded in 1958, Le Sayec employs 60 people with a turnover of EUR25 million (US$26.9 million).
Le Sayec also exports throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
“We are very excited about this acquisition, which is good news for both companies and for the turkey industry,” said Clay Burrows, managing director of Aviagen Turkeys. “There has been much consolidation within the industry over the last decade and because of this there is a need for us to operate further down the supply chain and the acquisition of Le Sayec will allow us to be closer to our end user. We look forward to continuing to build relationships and adding value for both our integrated and independent customers using our own Aviagen products, while continuing to develop the B.U.T. and Nicholas brands."
Patrice Le Sayec, managing director of Le Sayec, said: “My family and I are very pleased with this acquisition and believe there are many synergies between the two companies. We have been working with Aviagen Turkeys for many years and because of this it will be a very smooth transition. I will continue to manage the business going forward and I’m excited to be part of the Aviagen Group.”
Founded in 1958, Le Sayec employs 60 people with a turnover of EUR25 million (US$26.9 million).
Tuesday, January 12, 2016
Walker elected new PAACO Chair
Jennifer Walker, DVM, PhD, of Dallas, TX, has been elected chairman of the board of directors for the Professional Animal Auditor Certification Organization (PAACO). Director of Dairy Stewardship for Dean Foods, Walker was the organization’s vice chairman the past two years. She succeeds Terry Mader, PhD, of Mader Consulting.
"I am proud to serve PAACO," said Walker. "I am excited about helping implement our new strategic plan which will ensure that PAACO remains the authority in animal welfare audit certification and auditor trainings."
Angela Baysinger, DVM, Bruning, NB, was named vice chairman. She is a health assurance veterinarian for Merck Animal Health. Rounding out the officer team are Secretary Ted Friend, PhD, animal science professor at Texas A&M University, and Treasurer Dave Sjeklocha, DVM, operations manager of animal health and welfare at Cattle Empire. The organization’s executive director is Mike Simpson.
Paul Beck, PhD, professor at University of Arkansas is a newly-appointed board member representing the American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists. He replaces Mader as one of three ARPAS appointees.
"I am proud to serve PAACO," said Walker. "I am excited about helping implement our new strategic plan which will ensure that PAACO remains the authority in animal welfare audit certification and auditor trainings."
Angela Baysinger, DVM, Bruning, NB, was named vice chairman. She is a health assurance veterinarian for Merck Animal Health. Rounding out the officer team are Secretary Ted Friend, PhD, animal science professor at Texas A&M University, and Treasurer Dave Sjeklocha, DVM, operations manager of animal health and welfare at Cattle Empire. The organization’s executive director is Mike Simpson.
Paul Beck, PhD, professor at University of Arkansas is a newly-appointed board member representing the American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists. He replaces Mader as one of three ARPAS appointees.
Tech XChange planned for IPPE
The International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) is offering attendees a variety of free 20-minute technical presentations on current topics affecting the feed, meat and poultry industries. The Tech XChange program will be held on the trade show floor of the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta from Jan. 26 – 28.
Tech XChange presentations will address myriad issue areas, including food safety, animal welfare, sustainability and feed production. Each session will be led by an IPPE exhibitor, who will share his/her expertise and experience on the topic. Attendees can participate in the free Tech XChange education presentations from 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. on Jan. 26, and from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Jan. 27, in Booth A-3347 and in Booth B-8805.
The schedule can be viewed here or through the IPPE Mobile App under the “Education” search.
Tech XChange presentations will address myriad issue areas, including food safety, animal welfare, sustainability and feed production. Each session will be led by an IPPE exhibitor, who will share his/her expertise and experience on the topic. Attendees can participate in the free Tech XChange education presentations from 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. on Jan. 26, and from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Jan. 27, in Booth A-3347 and in Booth B-8805.
The schedule can be viewed here or through the IPPE Mobile App under the “Education” search.
Making animal production more sustainable
A new study led by the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture, which was published in the scientific journal of the Royal Society Interface, shows that reducing concentrate feed can be a feasible alternative for ensuring food security in a climate-friendly way.
Calculations using a model show that, should the predictions of the FAO become a reality, agriculture’s negative impact on the environment will increase significantly by 2050. One of the main reasons is the intensive feeding of livestock of crops like wheat, maize and soy. In order to intensify production, already diminishing cropland is increasingly used for feed production instead of the production of plant-based food. Thus, concentrate feed for animals competes with food for human consumption.
The study shows that by reducing the production of concentrate feed, more plant-based food can be produced while also protecting the environment and reducing GHG emissions. Calculations show that the number of animal products in human diets would decrease by 53% if feed production on cropland were to be reduced. This would mostly concern pork, poultry and eggs.
Grassland is more eco-friendly than concentrate feed
The connection between meat consumption and environmental damage of agriculture has long been a controversial topic. A common conclusion is to further intensify animal husbandry, i.e. to produce more high-energy concentrate feed on arable land. It is often regarded as the only way to meet the increasing demand for animal-based food and to reduce GHG per kg meat. However, the new FiBL study also shows that reducing concentrate feed would be a more sustainable solution for supplying the global population with food. According to the calculations, this strategy has great potential and ideally complements already existing approaches for food security like improving the efficiency of food production, distribution and use as well as decreasing consumption.
Newly developed model can be used for a variety of purposes
Researchers at FiBL, the FAO, the “Alpen-Adria” University in Vienna and the University of Aberdeen designed a global model system in order to calculate various scenarios of food availability and impacts of food production on the environment. This model system is able to calculate the complex material flows and resulting production volumes and environmental impacts of our food system. This allows for an in-depth analysis of changes in production methods and food consumption. The system is consistent with global statistics of the FAO and can be used in the future to answer various questions on the sustainability of agricultural and food systems.
Calculations using a model show that, should the predictions of the FAO become a reality, agriculture’s negative impact on the environment will increase significantly by 2050. One of the main reasons is the intensive feeding of livestock of crops like wheat, maize and soy. In order to intensify production, already diminishing cropland is increasingly used for feed production instead of the production of plant-based food. Thus, concentrate feed for animals competes with food for human consumption.
The study shows that by reducing the production of concentrate feed, more plant-based food can be produced while also protecting the environment and reducing GHG emissions. Calculations show that the number of animal products in human diets would decrease by 53% if feed production on cropland were to be reduced. This would mostly concern pork, poultry and eggs.
Grassland is more eco-friendly than concentrate feed
The connection between meat consumption and environmental damage of agriculture has long been a controversial topic. A common conclusion is to further intensify animal husbandry, i.e. to produce more high-energy concentrate feed on arable land. It is often regarded as the only way to meet the increasing demand for animal-based food and to reduce GHG per kg meat. However, the new FiBL study also shows that reducing concentrate feed would be a more sustainable solution for supplying the global population with food. According to the calculations, this strategy has great potential and ideally complements already existing approaches for food security like improving the efficiency of food production, distribution and use as well as decreasing consumption.
Newly developed model can be used for a variety of purposes
Researchers at FiBL, the FAO, the “Alpen-Adria” University in Vienna and the University of Aberdeen designed a global model system in order to calculate various scenarios of food availability and impacts of food production on the environment. This model system is able to calculate the complex material flows and resulting production volumes and environmental impacts of our food system. This allows for an in-depth analysis of changes in production methods and food consumption. The system is consistent with global statistics of the FAO and can be used in the future to answer various questions on the sustainability of agricultural and food systems.
Feed additives company Jefo unveils new philosophy
Non-medicated performance feed additives producer Jefo has unveiled its new global corporate philosophy based on the company’s history and strong corporate values. The new philosophy, “Life, made easier,” sustains the rationale of the company’s logo: a natural cycle, an easier continuity of life.
According to Jefo:
“Life. It’s health. It’s reproduction. Calving, farrowing, laying [and] hatching. It’s milk. It’s growth. It’s animals feeding the hands that feed them. Jefo is a circle of life.
“’Life, made easier’ is a view to easier calving and easier transition. It’s nutrition delivered as it should be, through vitamins, minerals, yeasts and organic acids. It’s better balance, better metabolism. It’s just a little more comfort.
“’Life, made easier’ is a promise of health solutions that are easy to administer. Right in the feed, as it should be. Without fuss or pain or risk to the animals. It’s a promise that with better nutrition, animals are more comfortable, easier to raise. That each stage of life is just a little less complicated, with a lower risk of disease, weight loss and mortality due to stress and malnutrition. It’s just a little more peace of mind.
“’Life, made easier’ is a promise that Jefo is constantly searching for solutions to animal nutrition challenges, offering a full range of products and programs to satisfy the needs of the different life stages of each species. It’s a lot more confidence and a true partnership.
“’Life, made easier’ is a promise of excellent service and expert technical support. It’s a promise that doing business with Jefo is easy, with immediate response and efficient communication. It’s an entire solutions-oriented team at your service.
“’Life, made easier’ means programs and solutions for real-life situations, for different lifestages and challenges.
“’Life, made easier’ with science. Through its applied scientific research, Jefo continues to innovate and develop additives that take into account the genetic make-up, physiology and metabolism of each species, as well as the varying requirements of the market: Jefo Matrix Technology for safe and targeted delivery of active compounds and nutrients, enzymes for improved feed conversion and increased body weight, and liquids for optimal animal performance.
“’Life, made easier’ is about timely technical support and practical advice worldwide. It’s experienced, dependable and friendly professionals at your service.
“’Life, made easier’ means healthy animals feeding the hands that feed them. This is the circle of life. This is what sustains us. This is Jefo,” the company says.
The new philosophy will be rolled out in all communications in the many countries where Jefo is present. New kiosks, stationery, business cards and corporate communications including advertising, promotions and website have been designed.
According to Jefo:
“Life. It’s health. It’s reproduction. Calving, farrowing, laying [and] hatching. It’s milk. It’s growth. It’s animals feeding the hands that feed them. Jefo is a circle of life.
“’Life, made easier’ is a view to easier calving and easier transition. It’s nutrition delivered as it should be, through vitamins, minerals, yeasts and organic acids. It’s better balance, better metabolism. It’s just a little more comfort.
“’Life, made easier’ is a promise of health solutions that are easy to administer. Right in the feed, as it should be. Without fuss or pain or risk to the animals. It’s a promise that with better nutrition, animals are more comfortable, easier to raise. That each stage of life is just a little less complicated, with a lower risk of disease, weight loss and mortality due to stress and malnutrition. It’s just a little more peace of mind.
“’Life, made easier’ is a promise that Jefo is constantly searching for solutions to animal nutrition challenges, offering a full range of products and programs to satisfy the needs of the different life stages of each species. It’s a lot more confidence and a true partnership.
“’Life, made easier’ is a promise of excellent service and expert technical support. It’s a promise that doing business with Jefo is easy, with immediate response and efficient communication. It’s an entire solutions-oriented team at your service.
“’Life, made easier’ means programs and solutions for real-life situations, for different lifestages and challenges.
“’Life, made easier’ with science. Through its applied scientific research, Jefo continues to innovate and develop additives that take into account the genetic make-up, physiology and metabolism of each species, as well as the varying requirements of the market: Jefo Matrix Technology for safe and targeted delivery of active compounds and nutrients, enzymes for improved feed conversion and increased body weight, and liquids for optimal animal performance.
“’Life, made easier’ is about timely technical support and practical advice worldwide. It’s experienced, dependable and friendly professionals at your service.
“’Life, made easier’ means healthy animals feeding the hands that feed them. This is the circle of life. This is what sustains us. This is Jefo,” the company says.
The new philosophy will be rolled out in all communications in the many countries where Jefo is present. New kiosks, stationery, business cards and corporate communications including advertising, promotions and website have been designed.
USDA vaccine stockpile prepares US for HPAI outbreak
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is making preparations to turn back and stop another outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). One of the most powerful tools in fighting another U.S. outbreak of HPAI may be the USDA’s stockpile of poultry vaccines.
During the WATT Global Media webinar, "Vaccination as Part of an Avian Flu Eradication Plan," Dr. David Suarez, research leader for exotic and emerging avian viral diseases research at the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS), spoke about a stockpile of vaccine the agency is building. The National Veterinary Stockpile would only be tapped in the event of a widespread outbreak of HPAI – like the one that spread across the country between December 2014 and June 2015 – but it is a key part of the USDA’s response plan.
Suarez, who’s been with the ARS since 1995, said empirical research from two decades of fighting HPAI outbreaks around the world proves that vaccines in combination with other biosecurity measures are an effective way to both stop outbreaks and reduce viral shedding, or the transmission of the virus from one infected bird to an entire flock. So, the agency has decided to stockpile as many as 500 million doses of poultry vaccines in the event of an outbreak.
However, in accordance with U.S. regulations, the USDA can only use vaccines approved and licensed by its Center for Veterinary Biologics. This limits its access to experimental vaccines that have shown promise against extant strains of HPAI. The USDA has limited options because drug companies have very little economic incentive to independently research and produce HPAI vaccines.
“We’re certainly constrained by what the commercial companies are willing to get licensed in the U.S.,” Suarez said. “Because we don’t vaccinate for avian influenza on a routine basis, there’s very little economic incentive for these companies to license in the U.S. because obviously, they don’t want to go through the expense of licensing unless they have a product that can be sold that they can make a profit on.
“That really has constrained what is available in the U.S. In some countries, like in China and Mexico, they actually have some products available there that are not available here.”
In order to encourage drug companies to produce newer, more-effective vaccines that the USDA can stockpile in the event of a mass immunization, the agency released a request for proposals for avian influenza vaccines in 2015.
The two avian influenza vaccines purchased by USDA Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) for the stockpile had different costs. The vaccines are being added to the stockpile at costs to USDA of $0.06 and $0.125 per dose by Ceva Animal Health and Harrisvaccines, respectively.
The agency released a second request in November. Suarez said the USDA may issue three more similar requests in the near future where APHIS may purchase additional doses of vaccine. So far, the agency has purchased 148 million doses for $12 million.
Beyond the vaccines already stockpiled, Suarez said he thinks there are new vaccines being developed that will be released soon. He believes the existence of the National Veterinary Stockpile has played a positive role in advancing the development of new vaccines in the U.S. The stockpile, at the very least, he said, gives the USDA the option to immunize with proven and reliable vaccines in the face of another HPAI outbreak.
The USDA has not yet made any decision on mass immunization. However, it has established a criteria for how it would immunize if that decision is made in the future.
During the WATT Global Media webinar, "Vaccination as Part of an Avian Flu Eradication Plan," Dr. David Suarez, research leader for exotic and emerging avian viral diseases research at the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS), spoke about a stockpile of vaccine the agency is building. The National Veterinary Stockpile would only be tapped in the event of a widespread outbreak of HPAI – like the one that spread across the country between December 2014 and June 2015 – but it is a key part of the USDA’s response plan.
Suarez, who’s been with the ARS since 1995, said empirical research from two decades of fighting HPAI outbreaks around the world proves that vaccines in combination with other biosecurity measures are an effective way to both stop outbreaks and reduce viral shedding, or the transmission of the virus from one infected bird to an entire flock. So, the agency has decided to stockpile as many as 500 million doses of poultry vaccines in the event of an outbreak.
However, in accordance with U.S. regulations, the USDA can only use vaccines approved and licensed by its Center for Veterinary Biologics. This limits its access to experimental vaccines that have shown promise against extant strains of HPAI. The USDA has limited options because drug companies have very little economic incentive to independently research and produce HPAI vaccines.
“We’re certainly constrained by what the commercial companies are willing to get licensed in the U.S.,” Suarez said. “Because we don’t vaccinate for avian influenza on a routine basis, there’s very little economic incentive for these companies to license in the U.S. because obviously, they don’t want to go through the expense of licensing unless they have a product that can be sold that they can make a profit on.
“That really has constrained what is available in the U.S. In some countries, like in China and Mexico, they actually have some products available there that are not available here.”
In order to encourage drug companies to produce newer, more-effective vaccines that the USDA can stockpile in the event of a mass immunization, the agency released a request for proposals for avian influenza vaccines in 2015.
The two avian influenza vaccines purchased by USDA Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) for the stockpile had different costs. The vaccines are being added to the stockpile at costs to USDA of $0.06 and $0.125 per dose by Ceva Animal Health and Harrisvaccines, respectively.
The agency released a second request in November. Suarez said the USDA may issue three more similar requests in the near future where APHIS may purchase additional doses of vaccine. So far, the agency has purchased 148 million doses for $12 million.
Beyond the vaccines already stockpiled, Suarez said he thinks there are new vaccines being developed that will be released soon. He believes the existence of the National Veterinary Stockpile has played a positive role in advancing the development of new vaccines in the U.S. The stockpile, at the very least, he said, gives the USDA the option to immunize with proven and reliable vaccines in the face of another HPAI outbreak.
The USDA has not yet made any decision on mass immunization. However, it has established a criteria for how it would immunize if that decision is made in the future.
Hendrix Genetics building layer hatchery in Nebraska
Hendrix Genetics plans to build a hatchery for its layer breeds in Grand Island, Nebraska.
The hatchery is being built to meet the company’s growing demand for the Hendrix ISA division Isa Brown, Bovans Brown, Shaver White, Dekalb White and Bovans White laying chickens.
The potential $10 million hatchery will be situated on 20 acres at Grand Island’s Platte Valley Industrial Park-East, reported the Grand Island Independent. When completed, it will produce 24 million chicks per year.
Hendrix-ISA Managing Director Peter Mumm said that the company has 40 hatcheries across the world, but only two in the United States. Since one is located in Virginia and the other in Pennsylvania, a Midwestern location was deemed ideal because chicks could be delivered across the U.S. in one day.
The hatchery plans were announced during a special ceremony in Grand Island, with Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts in attendance.
“This is a great win-win for the city of Grand Island, for Hendrix-ISA, for the State of Nebraska to be able to expand the agribusiness right here in our state and in your community to be able to create more jobs and get that investment," said Ricketts. "This really is a great day for the city of Grand Island and the State of Nebraska."
The hatchery is being built to meet the company’s growing demand for the Hendrix ISA division Isa Brown, Bovans Brown, Shaver White, Dekalb White and Bovans White laying chickens.
The potential $10 million hatchery will be situated on 20 acres at Grand Island’s Platte Valley Industrial Park-East, reported the Grand Island Independent. When completed, it will produce 24 million chicks per year.
Hendrix-ISA Managing Director Peter Mumm said that the company has 40 hatcheries across the world, but only two in the United States. Since one is located in Virginia and the other in Pennsylvania, a Midwestern location was deemed ideal because chicks could be delivered across the U.S. in one day.
The hatchery plans were announced during a special ceremony in Grand Island, with Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts in attendance.
“This is a great win-win for the city of Grand Island, for Hendrix-ISA, for the State of Nebraska to be able to expand the agribusiness right here in our state and in your community to be able to create more jobs and get that investment," said Ricketts. "This really is a great day for the city of Grand Island and the State of Nebraska."
IPVS Congress releases preliminary program
The preliminary program for the 24th International Pig Veterinary Society (IPVS) Congress and 8th European Symposium of Porcine Health Management (ESPHM) has been released. The jointly-held event will take place June 7-10 in Dublin, Ireland.
The event will include a number of presentations by leading industry keynote speakers and roundtable discussions.
Topics to be discussed include:
Potential abstract topics include:
The event will include a number of presentations by leading industry keynote speakers and roundtable discussions.
Topics to be discussed include:
- Bacteriology and bacterial diseases
- Herd health management
- Immunology and vaccination
- Parasitology and parasitic diseases
- Reproduction
- Veterinary public health and food safety
- Virology and viral diseases
- Welfare and nutrition
- Gary Althouse DVM, MS, PhD, Dipl. ACT, Chairman, Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center
- Sandra Edwards, Professor, UK Agricultural Development and Advisory Service
- David Francis, Emeritus professor,South Dakota State University
- Dr. Peter Geldhof, Professor, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Ghent University
- Dr. Bruno Goddeeris, Chairman of the Scientific Council, VAR-CODA-CERVA (Centre for Veterinary and Agrochemical Research) of Belgium
- Dr. Carl Andreas Groentvedt DVM, Dipl. ECPHM, Swine health expert and researcher, Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Oslo
- Prof. Anja Joachim, Professor, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna
- Dr. Yuzo Koketsu, Professor, School of Agriculture Meiji University, Japan
- Dr. Andrea Luppi, Brescia and Reggio Emilia Laboratory (IZSLER)
- Dr. John Mabry, Director, Iowa Pork Industry Center, ISU
- Fernando A. Osorio DVM, PhD DACVM, Professor, Nebraska Center for Virology and School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
- Gerald Reiner, Professor, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Clinic for Swine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen
- Dr. Nicolas Rose DVM, PhD, Director, Swine Epidemiology and Welfare research unit
- Prof. Jonathan Rushton, President, International Society for Economics and Social Science of Animal Health
- Peter Stevenson, author of comprehensive legal analyses of EU legislation on farm animals and of the impact of the WTO rules on animal welfare and lead author of the recent study by the FAO reviewing animal welfare legislation in the beef, pork and poultry industries
Abstracts being accepted until January 8
The deadline to submit abstracts for the IPVS Congress and ESPHM is January 8, 2016. This is an opportunity for people in the swine health field to advance their careers, advance their departments and make industry connections.Potential abstract topics include:
- Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS)
- Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDv)
- Classical swine fever or African swine fever
- Viral and viral diseases
- Porcine circovirus type 2 (PVC2)
- Swine influenza virus (SIV)
- Herd health management and economy
- Welfare and nutrition
- Reproduction
- Lawsonia
- Brachyspira
- Salmonella
- H. Parasuis
- S.suis
- Parasitic diseases
- Vaccinology and immunology
- Antimicrobial
- Mycoplasma
- Actinobacillus
- Clostridia
- E Coli
- Bacteriology and bacterial diseases
- Veterinary public health (food safety)
- Miscellaneous
Monday, January 11, 2016
Federal order on swine enteric coronavirus updated
The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) on January 4 issued an updated federal order related to swine enteric coronavirus diseases (SECD), including porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) virus and swine delta coronavirus. The order is effective immediately.
The updated order will do several things, including changing how emergency funding APHIS received in 2014 will be used. APHIS has reprioritized its needs going forward and will focus all remaining SECD funds towards diagnostic testing. With this modification, the funds should last long enough to cover diagnostic testing through this winter season.
The revised federal order will also eliminate the herd plan requirement, as well as reimbursement to veterinarians for completing those plans. And, it will also eliminate reimbursement for biosecurity actions, like truck washing.
In response to a large number of SECD cases that were causing significant hardship for the U.S. swine industry, APHIS issued a federal order in June 2014 making SECD a reportable disease. At the same time, USDA made funds available to cover specific costs associated with the disease. SECD remains a reportable disease, which means that producers, veterinarians, and diagnostic laboratories are required to report all cases of SECD to USDA or state animal health officials. The reporting criteria are unchanged in the updated federal order.
USDA is receiving more accurate and timely information about SECD affected herds and their locations, which allows animal health officials to better understand how the disease spreads and what measures are most effective in containing it. The outbreak peaked between January and March 2015. In the last 5 months, the weekly average of new confirmed positive premises has dropped 90 percent when compared to the average number of weekly cases during the peak of the outbreak.
The updated order will do several things, including changing how emergency funding APHIS received in 2014 will be used. APHIS has reprioritized its needs going forward and will focus all remaining SECD funds towards diagnostic testing. With this modification, the funds should last long enough to cover diagnostic testing through this winter season.
The revised federal order will also eliminate the herd plan requirement, as well as reimbursement to veterinarians for completing those plans. And, it will also eliminate reimbursement for biosecurity actions, like truck washing.
In response to a large number of SECD cases that were causing significant hardship for the U.S. swine industry, APHIS issued a federal order in June 2014 making SECD a reportable disease. At the same time, USDA made funds available to cover specific costs associated with the disease. SECD remains a reportable disease, which means that producers, veterinarians, and diagnostic laboratories are required to report all cases of SECD to USDA or state animal health officials. The reporting criteria are unchanged in the updated federal order.
USDA is receiving more accurate and timely information about SECD affected herds and their locations, which allows animal health officials to better understand how the disease spreads and what measures are most effective in containing it. The outbreak peaked between January and March 2015. In the last 5 months, the weekly average of new confirmed positive premises has dropped 90 percent when compared to the average number of weekly cases during the peak of the outbreak.
81 percent of Smithfield pregnant sows in group housing
Smithfield Foods is progressing with its plans to transition pregnant sows on all company-owned farms in the United States to group housing systems by 2017. The company on January 4 reported it transitioned 81.8 percent by the end of 2015, a 10 percent increase over 2014.
In the United States, Smithfield expects to be fully converted on company-owned farms by 2017, as planned.
With the progress made to date, at the outset of 2016, more than eight out of every ten pregnant sows on company-owned farms in the U.S. are within group housing systems.
"At Smithfield Foods, we are committed to keeping animals safe, comfortable and healthy," said Ken Sullivan, Smithfield Foods president and CEO. "As the world's largest pork producer, we have a responsibility to be a leader in animal care, and we view our conversion of the pregnant sow housing system as a key component of our dedication to this goal."
In addition to efforts at its company-owned farms, Smithfield Foods previously announced that the company expects all U.S. contract growers to complete a transition to group housing by 2022. To support its partners, Smithfield Foods offers guidance and expertise to contract growers throughout the conversion process.
Smithfield's international hog production operations also have a goal of converting to group housing systems on all company-owned farms by 2022, including in Mexico. Smithfield's hog production operations in Poland (AgriPlus) and Romania (Smithfield Ferme) fully converted to group housing facilities on company-owned farms a number of years ago.
"Smithfield has a robust animal care management program that guides the care animals receive at every stage of their lives. This not only supports our goals for improving the health and well-being of animals, but also provides consumers with the safest food possible," said Stewart Leeth, Smithfield Food's vice president and chief sustainability officer. "Our commitment to the transition to group housing for pregnant sows goes hand-in-hand with other pledges, such as our removal of ractopamine from feed for all company-owned animals supplied to our processing facilities, and other steps that have placed us at the forefront of the hog production industry in the United States."
In the United States, Smithfield expects to be fully converted on company-owned farms by 2017, as planned.
With the progress made to date, at the outset of 2016, more than eight out of every ten pregnant sows on company-owned farms in the U.S. are within group housing systems.
"At Smithfield Foods, we are committed to keeping animals safe, comfortable and healthy," said Ken Sullivan, Smithfield Foods president and CEO. "As the world's largest pork producer, we have a responsibility to be a leader in animal care, and we view our conversion of the pregnant sow housing system as a key component of our dedication to this goal."
In addition to efforts at its company-owned farms, Smithfield Foods previously announced that the company expects all U.S. contract growers to complete a transition to group housing by 2022. To support its partners, Smithfield Foods offers guidance and expertise to contract growers throughout the conversion process.
Smithfield's international hog production operations also have a goal of converting to group housing systems on all company-owned farms by 2022, including in Mexico. Smithfield's hog production operations in Poland (AgriPlus) and Romania (Smithfield Ferme) fully converted to group housing facilities on company-owned farms a number of years ago.
"Smithfield has a robust animal care management program that guides the care animals receive at every stage of their lives. This not only supports our goals for improving the health and well-being of animals, but also provides consumers with the safest food possible," said Stewart Leeth, Smithfield Food's vice president and chief sustainability officer. "Our commitment to the transition to group housing for pregnant sows goes hand-in-hand with other pledges, such as our removal of ractopamine from feed for all company-owned animals supplied to our processing facilities, and other steps that have placed us at the forefront of the hog production industry in the United States."
Measure to support European pork producers takes effect
Difficulties for the EU pork sector go back to February of 2014 when Russia put in place a ban on imports of European pig meat (and other products) following sanctions imposed as a result of the political situation in Ukraine. The new Private Storage Aid (PSA) measures, which involve EU funding to help cover the costs of storing certain pig meat products for periods of between 3 and 5 months, took effect on January 4.
The scheme is part of a EUR500 million (US$542 million) support package for farmers announced by EU Agriculture Commissioner Phil Hogan, in September 2015. Because of the large volumes of lard previously exported to Russia, this product has been included in the PSA.
Aid for private storage is a market measure within the framework of a Regulation that compensates part of the storage cost for a period of time. Member States will notify twice weekly the quantities submitted into storage.
“I am aware that the pig meat sector is facing difficulties and prices have been in decline since September, and so I hope this measure will help the market,” commented Hogan.
The latest update from the European Commission on the EU pig meat market highlights the challenges in the sector. Production in 2015 is forecast at 256.8 million head or more than 3 percent above the previous year. While exports for the first 10 months of last year were 5.2 percent higher than the same period of 2014, domestic consumption has been flat and as a result, prices in the last week of 2015 were down around 6 to 8 percent from the levels one year before.
The scheme is part of a EUR500 million (US$542 million) support package for farmers announced by EU Agriculture Commissioner Phil Hogan, in September 2015. Because of the large volumes of lard previously exported to Russia, this product has been included in the PSA.
Aid for private storage is a market measure within the framework of a Regulation that compensates part of the storage cost for a period of time. Member States will notify twice weekly the quantities submitted into storage.
“I am aware that the pig meat sector is facing difficulties and prices have been in decline since September, and so I hope this measure will help the market,” commented Hogan.
The latest update from the European Commission on the EU pig meat market highlights the challenges in the sector. Production in 2015 is forecast at 256.8 million head or more than 3 percent above the previous year. While exports for the first 10 months of last year were 5.2 percent higher than the same period of 2014, domestic consumption has been flat and as a result, prices in the last week of 2015 were down around 6 to 8 percent from the levels one year before.
USPOULTRY plans education-packed year
USPOULTRY is sponsoring more than 14 poultry-related seminars and workshops during 2016. The programs, which cover all phases of the industry, will begin in March with the Feed Mill Management Seminar in Nashville, TN
Barbara Jenkins, USPOULTRY’s VP of education and student programs, said, “USPOULTRY’s cost-effective seminars and workshops provide members and industry representatives with tools, knowledge and technical expertise to help keep their operations running efficiently and effectively. With the help of industry leaders, our association spends numerous hours planning education programs that our members and attendees find valuable every year. We are excited to announce another robust, education-packed year full of learning and networking opportunities for the poultry and egg industries.”
Seminar topics and sessions include human resources, financial management, National Breeders Roundtable, Poultry Processor Workshop and Hatchery Breeder Clinic.
Information and registration are available at www.uspoultry.org.
Barbara Jenkins, USPOULTRY’s VP of education and student programs, said, “USPOULTRY’s cost-effective seminars and workshops provide members and industry representatives with tools, knowledge and technical expertise to help keep their operations running efficiently and effectively. With the help of industry leaders, our association spends numerous hours planning education programs that our members and attendees find valuable every year. We are excited to announce another robust, education-packed year full of learning and networking opportunities for the poultry and egg industries.”
Seminar topics and sessions include human resources, financial management, National Breeders Roundtable, Poultry Processor Workshop and Hatchery Breeder Clinic.
Information and registration are available at www.uspoultry.org.
APHIS names acting animal care deputy administrator
Bernadette Juarez has been named acting deputy administrator for the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Animal Care (AC) program. As acting AC Deputy, Jurarez will lead the program’s many employees in protecting and ensuring the welfare of millions of animals nationwide that are covered under the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) and the Horse Protection Act (HPA).
She will also oversee the collaborative work done at AC’s Center for Animal Welfare, building critical partnerships domestically and internationally, while seeking to improve regulatory practices and develop training and educational resources.
Juarez is replacing Dr. Chester Gipson, who retired on January 1, after more than 13 years in the position.
Prior to this position, Juarez served with APHIS’ Investigative and Enforcement Services (IES), first as Deputy Director for 4.5 years and then as Director for 2.5 years. As director, she was responsible for leading investigations of alleged AWA and HPA violations, as well as all other APHIS-administered statutes and regulations, and pursuing enforcement actions where warranted. She also transformed the unit’s ability to complete investigation and enforcement actions nearly 50 percent faster by streamlining its business processes and focusing on the highest priority investigations.
Her experience enforcing the AWA and HPA began prior to her joining APHIS as a trial attorney in USDA’s Office of the General Counsel from 2002 to 2009. In over six years, she represented APHIS in numerous AWA and HPA administrative enforcement proceedings.
In 1999, Juarez completed her bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of New Mexico. She went on to earn her Juris Doctor from American University, Washington College of Law, in 2002.
“I am confident that Bernadette’s accomplished leadership and management experience, her commitment to results, her extensive knowledge and enforcement of both the AWA and HPA, and her passion for AC’s mission will prove invaluable to APHIS’ efforts to ensure more humane and healthy conditions for animals, while also working to end the cruel and inhumane practice of soring,” said Kevin Shea, administrator of APHIS.
She will also oversee the collaborative work done at AC’s Center for Animal Welfare, building critical partnerships domestically and internationally, while seeking to improve regulatory practices and develop training and educational resources.
Juarez is replacing Dr. Chester Gipson, who retired on January 1, after more than 13 years in the position.
Prior to this position, Juarez served with APHIS’ Investigative and Enforcement Services (IES), first as Deputy Director for 4.5 years and then as Director for 2.5 years. As director, she was responsible for leading investigations of alleged AWA and HPA violations, as well as all other APHIS-administered statutes and regulations, and pursuing enforcement actions where warranted. She also transformed the unit’s ability to complete investigation and enforcement actions nearly 50 percent faster by streamlining its business processes and focusing on the highest priority investigations.
Her experience enforcing the AWA and HPA began prior to her joining APHIS as a trial attorney in USDA’s Office of the General Counsel from 2002 to 2009. In over six years, she represented APHIS in numerous AWA and HPA administrative enforcement proceedings.
In 1999, Juarez completed her bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of New Mexico. She went on to earn her Juris Doctor from American University, Washington College of Law, in 2002.
“I am confident that Bernadette’s accomplished leadership and management experience, her commitment to results, her extensive knowledge and enforcement of both the AWA and HPA, and her passion for AC’s mission will prove invaluable to APHIS’ efforts to ensure more humane and healthy conditions for animals, while also working to end the cruel and inhumane practice of soring,” said Kevin Shea, administrator of APHIS.
Wendy's transitioning to 100 percent cage-free eggs
The Wendy's Company will transition to 100 percent cage-free eggs in its U.S. and Canadian locations by 2020, the company announced on January 4.
The announcement, which will involve more than 400 Wendy’s restaurants that serve breakfast, represents the next step in Wendy's overarching animal welfare program.
"Animal welfare is a core part of our company's role as a responsible corporate citizen," said Liliana Esposito, Wendy's chief communications officer. "We're proud of our commitment to move to 100 percent cage-free eggs for our breakfast items and will continue to incorporate evolving best practices in the areas of animal handling and welfare into our supply chain requirements."
Since the late 1990s, the company has worked with animal welfare experts to audit its suppliers' animal handling practices. In 2001, the company established its Animal Welfare Council and adopted a comprehensive animal welfare program covering all meat suppliers.
The company in November also committed to eliminating the use of gestation stalls from its pork supply chain by 2022 and continues to make good progress against that goal.
Wendy’s became the first major company to announce a shift to cage-free eggs in 2016, following a trend of numerous restaurants and other companies pledging a move to cage-free eggs in 2015.
The announcement, which will involve more than 400 Wendy’s restaurants that serve breakfast, represents the next step in Wendy's overarching animal welfare program.
"Animal welfare is a core part of our company's role as a responsible corporate citizen," said Liliana Esposito, Wendy's chief communications officer. "We're proud of our commitment to move to 100 percent cage-free eggs for our breakfast items and will continue to incorporate evolving best practices in the areas of animal handling and welfare into our supply chain requirements."
Since the late 1990s, the company has worked with animal welfare experts to audit its suppliers' animal handling practices. In 2001, the company established its Animal Welfare Council and adopted a comprehensive animal welfare program covering all meat suppliers.
The company in November also committed to eliminating the use of gestation stalls from its pork supply chain by 2022 and continues to make good progress against that goal.
Wendy’s became the first major company to announce a shift to cage-free eggs in 2016, following a trend of numerous restaurants and other companies pledging a move to cage-free eggs in 2015.
Testing at egg company negative for Salmonella
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) recently conducted follow-up testing at the Good Earth Egg Company processing facility in Bonne Terre, MO. The results were negative for Salmonella bacteria. The facility has reopened after being ordered to close on Dec. 18 until remediation efforts and re-sampling could be completed.
The facility underwent cleaning and remediation efforts, and DHSS staff took new samples at the facility. Those samples were then tested at the Missouri State Public Health Laboratory and came back negative for Salmonella bacteria.
However, DHSS urges individuals that may have already purchased eggs from the Good Earth Egg Company to fully cook their eggs to 165 degrees, avoid cross contamination of raw eggs with ready to eat foods and wash their hands after handling eggs. Alternatively, consumers may choose to throw away any older products from Good Earth Egg Company.
The facility underwent cleaning and remediation efforts, and DHSS staff took new samples at the facility. Those samples were then tested at the Missouri State Public Health Laboratory and came back negative for Salmonella bacteria.
However, DHSS urges individuals that may have already purchased eggs from the Good Earth Egg Company to fully cook their eggs to 165 degrees, avoid cross contamination of raw eggs with ready to eat foods and wash their hands after handling eggs. Alternatively, consumers may choose to throw away any older products from Good Earth Egg Company.
Friday, January 8, 2016
Iowa's ban on poultry exhibitions lifted
The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship has announced that the order cancelling all live bird exhibitions at county fairs, the Iowa State Fair, livestock auction markets, swap meets, exotic sales and other gatherings of birds due to avian influenza has been lifted.
“This is very good news and another sign that we continue to recover from this devastating animal health emergency. We know the ban on exhibitions caused some real challenges for those anticipating showing or selling birds, but we appreciate everyone cooperating as we worked to stop the disease and then allow the industry to recover,” said Bill Northey, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture.
The Department issued the order prohibiting poultry exhibitions on May 21 in the midst of the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). The ban was put into place to minimize spread of HPAI and protect the state’s domestic bird population. Lifting the poultry exhibition ban comes as a result of no new cases of HPAI in Iowa since June and the lifting of the final quarantine on Dec. 1. Iowa is now considered free of HPAI.
A total of 77 premises and 31.5 million birds were affected with the disease in Iowa. There are 35 commercial turkey flocks, 22 commercial egg production flocks, 13 pullet flocks, one chicken breeding flock, one mail order hatchery, and five backyard flocks.
“This is very good news and another sign that we continue to recover from this devastating animal health emergency. We know the ban on exhibitions caused some real challenges for those anticipating showing or selling birds, but we appreciate everyone cooperating as we worked to stop the disease and then allow the industry to recover,” said Bill Northey, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture.
The Department issued the order prohibiting poultry exhibitions on May 21 in the midst of the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). The ban was put into place to minimize spread of HPAI and protect the state’s domestic bird population. Lifting the poultry exhibition ban comes as a result of no new cases of HPAI in Iowa since June and the lifting of the final quarantine on Dec. 1. Iowa is now considered free of HPAI.
A total of 77 premises and 31.5 million birds were affected with the disease in Iowa. There are 35 commercial turkey flocks, 22 commercial egg production flocks, 13 pullet flocks, one chicken breeding flock, one mail order hatchery, and five backyard flocks.
Rose Acre Farms purchases property for office space
Rose Acre Farms has purchased a 5.88-acre site in Seymour, Indiana, to accommodate the egg company’s need for more office space.
According to a report from WBIW, Rose Acre Farms purchased the property at 1541 W. Tipton Street in Seymour for a price of $1.25 million. Tony Wesner, chief operating officer for the company, said the purchase was made because Rose Acre Farms had outgrown its existing office space at its headquarters on State Road 258 between Seymour and Freetown.
Rose Acre Farms is the second largest egg producer in the United States, trailing only Cal-Maine Foods. The company had a flock of 24.8 million layers in 2014, according to the WATTAgNet Top Poultry Companies Database, and is progressing with plans for an $80 million egg complex in La Paz County, Arizona and a layer complex in Red River County, Texas, which is expected to include 14 layer houses.
According to a report from WBIW, Rose Acre Farms purchased the property at 1541 W. Tipton Street in Seymour for a price of $1.25 million. Tony Wesner, chief operating officer for the company, said the purchase was made because Rose Acre Farms had outgrown its existing office space at its headquarters on State Road 258 between Seymour and Freetown.
Rose Acre Farms is the second largest egg producer in the United States, trailing only Cal-Maine Foods. The company had a flock of 24.8 million layers in 2014, according to the WATTAgNet Top Poultry Companies Database, and is progressing with plans for an $80 million egg complex in La Paz County, Arizona and a layer complex in Red River County, Texas, which is expected to include 14 layer houses.
Egyptian meeting focuses on issues facing the poultry industry
Best management practices to counter current issues facing the poultry industry in the Middle East were the topic of the fifth annual seminar held by Cobb grandparent distributor Al Watania Egypt and sponsored by Cobb Europe.
During the two-day seminar in Egypt, 70 attendees from key integrations and independent producers heard Cobb specialists talk about different aspects of management such as rearing, production and health.
“There is a long history of partnership between Cobb and Al Watania Poultry in both Saudi Arabia and Egypt to produce competitive, safe protein for consumers — our goal in serving the industry in the Middle East,” said Hosam Amro, technical manager for Cobb Europe. “Such an event is an excellent opportunity for our Cobb Europe team to listen and talk with the key producers in Egypt.
“It enables us to understand customers’ requirements to feed back to our research team, as well as to put across the best management practice to support the industry in the current difficult time with elevated local feed ingredient prices and disease challenges. Farmers and integrators need to be able to produce a competitive, profitable product.”
Tore Mercan, sales and technical director of Cobb Europe, provided a company update, followed by presentations on the genetics of today and tomorrow. Speakers were Dr. Randy Borg, European director of genetics, parent stock female management, and Mohamad Kallas, Cobb regional technical manager. Hosam Amro gave a presentation on male management to optimize fertility and brooding management.
Other Cobb speakers included Dr. Andre Derkx, senior veterinarian; Matthew Wilson, technical services manager; Dr. Andrea Pizzabiocca, technical support; Dr. Eduardo Costa, hatchery specialist; and Edward Diehl, nutritionist.
During the two-day seminar in Egypt, 70 attendees from key integrations and independent producers heard Cobb specialists talk about different aspects of management such as rearing, production and health.
“There is a long history of partnership between Cobb and Al Watania Poultry in both Saudi Arabia and Egypt to produce competitive, safe protein for consumers — our goal in serving the industry in the Middle East,” said Hosam Amro, technical manager for Cobb Europe. “Such an event is an excellent opportunity for our Cobb Europe team to listen and talk with the key producers in Egypt.
“It enables us to understand customers’ requirements to feed back to our research team, as well as to put across the best management practice to support the industry in the current difficult time with elevated local feed ingredient prices and disease challenges. Farmers and integrators need to be able to produce a competitive, profitable product.”
Tore Mercan, sales and technical director of Cobb Europe, provided a company update, followed by presentations on the genetics of today and tomorrow. Speakers were Dr. Randy Borg, European director of genetics, parent stock female management, and Mohamad Kallas, Cobb regional technical manager. Hosam Amro gave a presentation on male management to optimize fertility and brooding management.
Other Cobb speakers included Dr. Andre Derkx, senior veterinarian; Matthew Wilson, technical services manager; Dr. Andrea Pizzabiocca, technical support; Dr. Eduardo Costa, hatchery specialist; and Edward Diehl, nutritionist.
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