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Beagle teams safeguard ports from disease threats

Beagle teams safeguard ports from disease threats
Nov 27, 2024
By Jean-Paul McDonald
Assistant Editor, North American Content, Farms.com

New act bolsters agricultures first line of defense

The unanimous approval of the Beagle Brigade Act (S.759) by the U.S. Senate marks a significant step toward enhancing the nation’s agricultural defenses. This legislation provides official support and reliable funding for the National Detector Dog Training Center, a vital component in safeguarding America’s food supply.

“American agriculture relies on the National Detector Dog Training Center to prevent the introduction of foreign animal and plant diseases that would cripple our food supply,” said Lori Stevermer, NPPC president and pork producer from Easton, Minnesota. “For the pork industry, the ‘Beagle Brigade’ is the first line of defense for keeping threats from foreign animal diseases, like African swine fever, out of the United States. America’s pork producers greatly appreciate Senator Ernst and our Senate champions and urge the House to take this up before the end of the year.”

Known as the Beagle Brigade, these specially trained canine teams from U.S. Customs and Border Protection conduct essential inspections at ports of entry. They serve as the frontline defense against biosecurity threats, ensuring harmful diseases and pests do not enter the country.

The Beagle Brigade Act aims to secure and expand this program, reinforcing agricultural security and protecting industries like pork production. The NPPC expressed gratitude to

Senate advocates and urged the House of Representatives to pass the legislation promptly to ensure continued protection of U.S. agriculture.


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