What Does Biosecurity on Pork Operations Look Like to You?

Feb 03, 2025

The only cure at this time for African swine fever (ASF), a deadly virus that affects swine, is prevention. USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS) is looking for entries in its ASF “I Protect Pigs” photo contest.

This contest promotes the importance of good biosecurity behaviors by encouraging the public to submit a photo of owner/pig safety practices in action. Entries will be accepted until midnight on Feb. 14.

Winners will be featured on APHIS’ site and social media channels to help promote the important role biosecurity plays in foreign animal disease prevention.

Here are a few picture-perfect ways to safeguard America’s swine:
• Limiting on-farm traffic
• Wearing clean clothes and shoes around pigs
• Washing on-farm equipment and vehicles
• Preventing contact with feral pigs
• Storing feed where wildlife can’t get it
• NOT eating ‘people-food’ near animals

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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.