MSU Extension Provides Information and Guidance to Michigan's Agriculture Industry During Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Disease Outbreak

Jul 04, 2025

$104.7 billion annual impact of food and agriculture on Michigan's economy
900 dairy farms in Michigan (MDARD, 2023)
$2.9 billion economic impact of the turkey industry (MDARD, 2023)

Priority Areas

Michigan State University (MSU) Extension’s readiness and rapid response to disease outbreaks safeguarded Michigan’s livestock industry by equipping farmers with vital biosecurity knowledge and resources. This collaborative effort not only mitigated the immediate threat but also strengthened the state’s agricultural resilience and preparedness for future challenges. MSU Extension’s collaborative response to the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak helped safeguard Michigan’s agricultural and community events while minimizing disease spread. Its work protected animal health and ensured that youth in 4-H programs had the opportunity to engage in valuable learning experiences despite many challenges.

MSU Extension's Swift Response to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Outbreak

Livestock health management is a critical yet challenging aspect of farming. When HPAI was confirmed in cattle for the first time in Michigan in 2024, the agricultural community faced a never-before-seen threat. Previously affecting poultry, HPAI’s emergence in dairy cattle highlighted the need for rapid dissemination of accurate information and actionable biosecurity guidance. Farmers required clear, science-based resources to protect their herds and flocks from this unexpected outbreak.

Source : msu.edu

Video: Genomic Technologies and Public Trust - Dr. Ellen Goddard

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Ellen Goddard, Professor Emerita at the University of Alberta, discusses public acceptance of genomic technologies in pork production. She explains why disease resistance is viewed positively, how labeling affects trust, why farmers remain highly credible messengers, and how communication can shape consumer confidence around gene editing. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Not providing information is a choice that can affect long-term public trust."

Meet the guest: Dr. Ellen Goddard / ellen-goddard-11541138 is Professor Emerita at the University of Alberta and an agricultural economist. Her work focuses on consumer behavior, trust, livestock sectors, and public attitudes toward food technologies. She also specializes in economic modeling for pork, beef, and dairy systems. Learn more from Dr. Ellen Goddard on the Swine in Canada Podcast Show, available on all major platforms.