SHIC/AASV Webinar Recap: Mitigation Strategies for Mosquitos as an Emerging Threat to Swine Health

Sep 16, 2024

The Swine Health Information Center, in collaboration with the American Association of Swine Veterinarians, hosted a webinar on mosquitos and their impact on swine health and production August 26, 2024. Goals of the webinar were to understand the role of mosquitos as a vector for disease transmission and to take actions to control mosquito populations near swine farms. The webinar featured four subject matter experts sharing insights on entomology and mosquito life cycles, experience on managing mosquitos in and around swine farms, and best control practices to reduce the impact of insect bites on pork production.

Presenters offering their expertise included Dr. Dustin Swanson, USDA-ARS, Dr. Bernie Gleeson, SunPork (Australia), Dr. Natalee Judson, Pipestone, and Dr. Chris Rademacher, Iowa State University. Because of this year’s widespread unusual rainfall during spring and summer, ideal conditions exist for explosive mosquito population growth. Mosquitos can transmit many pathogens and pose a risk to swine health and production.

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Video: Selling Rams & Helping New Farmers Begin

It’s shipping day again at Ewetopia Farms as we sell another Suffolk yearling ram! In today’s episode, we load one of our Suffolk rams onto the trailer as he heads off to his new farm to sire the next generation of lambs.

This particular customer has been buying our rams for over eight years, trusting Ewetopia genetics for their gentle temperaments, strong builds, and proven performance. Back home, we get busy looking after the flock that’s staying behind. With the weather turning wet and chilly, it’s time to put down fresh, clean bedding to keep everyone cozy and comfortable for the season ahead. Later, we welcome a wonderful new family who’s just starting out in sheep farming!

They’ve chosen some of our Suffolk ewe lambs to begin their flock — and we couldn’t be happier to help them take their first steps into raising sheep. Stay tuned for a follow-up episode when we help deliver and settle their new flock at their farm.