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Swine Health Information Center Releases 2021–2026 Program Review Highlighting Strong Return on Producer Investment

The Swine Health Information Center announces the release of its second Program Review: Return on Producers’ Investment covering April 2021–March 2026, detailing its second five years of impact in protecting and enhancing the health of the US swine herd.

The report outlines SHIC’s continued commitment to minimizing the impact of emerging disease threats through preparedness, coordinated communications, global disease monitoring, analysis of swine health data, and targeted research investments.

Since its launch in 2015 with Pork Checkoff funding, SHIC has focused on delivering practical, science-based solutions for pork producers. The newly released program review demonstrates how that investment has translated into measurable outcomes for the industry.

“SHIC is uniquely positioned to rapidly identify knowledge gaps and mobilize targeted research that directly benefits pork producers,” said Dr. Megan Niederwerder, SHIC executive director. “This report reflects the collaborative effort across industry, academia, and government to strengthen preparedness and response to emerging swine diseases.”

Key Highlights from the Report

Targeted Research Investment: More than 115 research projects were completed or are currently underway from 2021–2026, addressing critical gaps in disease detection, prevention, and mitigation.

Enhanced Disease Monitoring: Expanded domestic and global surveillance systems provide timely insights to help producers prepare for and respond to evolving disease risks.

Improved Industry Preparedness: Development of tools such as the Swine Disease Matrices and Standardized Outbreak Investigation Program supports rapid response and informed decision-making.

Strong Collaboration: Partnerships with producers, veterinarians, industry organizations, universities, diagnostic labs, and government agencies maximize resources and reduce duplication of effort.

Demonstrated Return on Investment: Leveraged funding and efficient operations have extended the value of Pork Checkoff dollars while delivering consistent, high-quality outcomes.

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Evidence-Based PRRS Elimination Methods - Dr. Brent Pepin

Video: Evidence-Based PRRS Elimination Methods - Dr. Brent Pepin


In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show, Dr. Brent Pepin, Director of Swine Health at the National Pork Board, explains how a systematic review of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus elimination methods is helping shape future herd health strategies. He discusses evidence-based farm and regional approaches, research gaps, and practical guidance to support informed decision-making across the swine industry. Listen now on all major platforms!

Click here to learn more: https://porkcheckoff.org/research/sys...

"Disease status sharing gives producers the opportunity to make real-time decisions that reduce PRRS prevalence and protect regions from new exposure."

Meet the guest: Dr. Brent Pepin / brent-pepin-dvm-ms-7988066b is Director of Swine Health at the National Pork Board. After earning his DVM and M.S. from Iowa State University, he built extensive experience in swine veterinary practice, research, and herd health management. His current work focuses on disease control, traceability, and improving herd health across the U.S. swine industry. Listen to Brent Pepin on The Swine it Podcast Show, available on all major platforms.