Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare Archives - Page 2 of 3 - Land-Grant Impacts

Topic

chickens around a feeder

Mitigating costly poultry diseases

Avian diseases pose a major challenge to the nation’s $77 billion poultry industry and drastically increase the cost of poultry products for consumers. Avian diseases can also pose a health threat to other animals and humans. At the same time, there is a demand to produce poultry without antibiotics or other drugs commonly used to fight diseases. Working together, [...]

Food Security, Summary 2025, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Alabama, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Auburn University, California, Delaware, Extension, Food Safety, Food Security, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Iowa State University, Maryland, Michigan, Michigan State University, North Carolina, North Carolina State University, North Central, Northeast, Ohio, Oregon, Oregon State University, Research, Southern, The Ohio State University, The University of Georgia, University of Arkansas, University of California, University of Delaware, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Maryland, West Virginia, West Virginia University, Western, Zoonotic Diseases/Avian Influenza

crops growing out of dry, cracked soil

Understanding and identifying solutions for weather impacts on agriculture

Drought, severe weather and wildfires can have significant economic impacts on agriculture. Research and educational programming by land-grant universities helps us understand these effects and strengthen resilience. Here are a few examples of that work: Red clover, a commonly used forage crop in the northeastern U.S., increases its phytoestrogen levels under drought conditions, potentially affecting livestock reproductive health. The economic impact [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 2025, Alabama, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Colorado, Colorado State University, Crop Management, Delaware, Economic Development, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Extension, Food Systems, Maryland, Mississippi, Mississippi State University, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Carolina State University, Northeast, Pest Management, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, Southern, Specialty Crops, University of Delaware, University of New Hampshire, Virginia, Washington, Washington State University, Western

scientists in a lab

Harnessing artificial intelligence for agricultural innovation

Land-grant universities are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to improve agricultural efficiency, productivity and sustainability. Here are a few examples of that work: In Georgia, researchers are developing an AI-powered app to help farmers accurately identify Sericea lespedeza, a valuable forage crop with natural anthelmintic properties, reducing time ad labor costs.Fort Valley State University; USDA Capacity-Research. See full statement. In Arkansas, researchers are [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 1890, 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Central State University, Fisheries/Aquaculture, Fort Valley State University, Georgia, Ohio, Precision Agriculture, Research, Rural Communities/Health, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

fruit growing on a tree

Understanding root causes of chronic health conditions, more natural ways to treat them

Chronic health concerns, including diabetes, autoimmune disorders and vitamin deficiency, are costly and debilitating to patients and the healthcare system. Researchers across the Land-Grant University System are looking at new and often natural ways to help ease the onset or effects of common, chronic conditions, and promote better health along the way. Here are a few examples of that work: In [...]

Nutrition and Health, Summary 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Biofuels/Bioproducts, Child and Family Resilience, Food Security, Food Systems, Guam, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Public Health, Research, Rural Communities/Health, Southern, The Pennsylvania State University, University of Arkansas, University of Guam, Western

ducks

Protecting biodiversity for healthy ecosystems and communities

Biodiversity supports healthy ecosystems and recreation around the world. A diverse range of species ensures stability and resilience in the face of environmental changes. Protecting biodiversity also preserves the opportunity for new discoveries, such as species that can be used as biological pest control agents or medicines. Land-grant university researchers and Extension professionals are working to protect the biodiversity [...]

Environmental Stewardship, Summary 2025, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Cornell University, Ecosystem Services, Extension, Fisheries/Aquaculture, Food Security, Food Systems, Forest Protection and Management, Guam, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Invasive Species, Maryland, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, New York, North Carolina, North Carolina State University, North Central, Northeast, Oregon, Oregon State University, Pennsylvania, Pest Management, Research, Rural Communities/Health, Soil Health, Southern, Tennessee, The Pennsylvania State University, University of Guam, University of Maryland, University of New Hampshire, University of Tennessee, University of Vermont, Vermont, Washington, Washington State University, Water Resilience/Management, Western, Wildlife

cows

Land-grant university research, outreach support beef production

The United States is the world’s top producer of beef, contributing to about 20% of the world’s production. In 2023, the U.S. beef industry had an estimated value of $102 billion. Land-grant universities are supporting the beef industry through research, Extension and education, ensuring producers remain economically viable and are able to safely meet changing market demands. Here are a [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 2025, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Economic Development, Extension, Food Security, Food Systems, Missouri, North Central, Northeast, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, Pennsylvania, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, Southern, Texas, Texas A&M University, The Pennsylvania State University, University of Missouri, Workforce Development and Readiness

a robot picking berries

Digital agriculture enhances production, monitoring capabilities

Data modeling, automated machinery and drones are just a few of the technologies that are powering improved efficiencies in livestock and crop production. Land-grant universities are at the forefront of researching and applying these technologies, paving the way for increased productivity, better disease management and optimized harvest timing. Here are a few examples of that work: In Idaho, many cattle producers [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 1890, 2025, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Central State University, Crop Management, Extension, Food Security, Food Systems, Idaho, Mississippi, Mississippi State University, New Hampshire, Northeast, Ohio, Precision Agriculture, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, Southern, Specialty Crops, University of Idaho, University of New Hampshire, Western

a group of smiling students

Education opportunities elevate agriculture issues and importance

Reaching youths and students early increases awareness of the importance of agriculture and the critical issues impacting producers. Land-grant universities are creating solutions to address educational gaps, improve understanding critical issues like cyber-biosecurity and provide students with practical knowledge, skills and information for the future. Here are a few examples of that work: Researchers in New Mexico recognized an opportunity for [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Extension, Fiber Systems, Food Security, Food Systems, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, North Carolina, North Carolina State University, Research, Science/Technology/Engineering/Arts/Math (STEAM), Southern, University of Wyoming, Virginia, Virginia Tech, Waste Management, Western, Workforce Development and Readiness, Wyoming, Youth Development/4-H

a person wearing PPE and looking at a device

Land-grant universities support the viability of livestock production

From teaching producers biosecurity techniques to keeping poultry cool in extreme temperatures to identifying genetic traits that will optimize production, land-grant university researchers and Extension professionals are supporting the viability of livestock production in the United States. Here are a few examples of that work: Researchers at land-grant universities nationwide are developing and using advanced technologies and data to improve poultry [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Delaware, Economic Development, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Extension, Fiber Systems, Food Security, Food Systems, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Indiana, Mississippi, Mississippi State University, North Central, Northeast, Profitability/Competitiveness, Purdue University, Research, Southern, University of Arkansas, University of Delaware, University of Wisconsin, University of Wyoming, Western, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Youth Development/4-H

honey sale sign at a farmers market

Developing new farmers, new products and new markets to boost agriculture sector

Many communities across the United States are seeing a decline in the agricultural workforce as experienced farmers retire. This issue has been exacerbated by national declines in new and beginning farmers. Land-grant universities are working to recruit and train new farmers, address their challenges and find ways to help them to thrive, including new crops and new marketing opportunities. [...]

Food Security, Summary 2025, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Alaska, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Community Development/Engagement, Economic Development, Extension, Food Security, Food Systems, Nevada, Northeast, Organic Agriculture, Profitability/Competitiveness, Southern, Specialty Crops, Texas, Texas A&M University, University of Alaska Fairbanks, University of Nevada Reno, University of Vermont, Vermont, Waste Management, Western, Workforce Development and Readiness, Youth Development/4-H

Land-grant researchers and Extension educators protect essential pollinators

Pollinators play a critical role in the world’s ecosystems, facilitating the reproduction of flowering plants and ensuring the production of many crops. But many pollinator populations are declining or at risk due to habitat loss, pesticide use and changing environmental conditions. Researchers and Extension educators at land-grant universities across the United States are finding ways to protect pollinators. Here are [...]

Environmental Stewardship, Summary 2025, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Colorado, Colorado State University, Crop Management, Ecosystem Services, Extension, Food Security, Food Systems, Forest Protection and Management, Guam, Master Gardener/Master Naturalist, Michigan, Michigan State University, North Central, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Pest Management, Research, Specialty Crops, The Pennsylvania State University, University of Guam, University of Vermont, University of Wisconsin, Vermont, Western, Wildlife, Wisconsin

Land-grant university research helps stakeholders lower costs with renewable energy solutions

Non-renewable energy sources are limited, and growing demand exacerbates pollution and health issues. Enhancing energy efficiency and developing renewable sources are crucial to meet demand, reduce costs, create jobs and boost rural prosperity. Reducing fossil fuel reliance improves national security and public health. Researchers and educators in the Land-grant University System are finding innovative ways to improve energy efficiency [...]

Energy and Bioproducts, Summary 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Biofuels/Bioproducts, Cornell University, Economic Development, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Extension, Facilities/Infrastructure, Kentucky, New York, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, Rural Communities/Health, Southern, The Pennsylvania State University, University of Arkansas, University of Kentucky

chickens in an outdoor pen

Interventions developed to reduce bacteria transmission in livestock

Food-borne diseases may be preventable with changes in behavior or the adoption of new practices. An interdisciplinary study conducted at Purdue University in Indiana identified knowledge gaps that hinder producers from adopting food-safety practices. The researchers also developed technologies to reduce the contamination of food products from pathogens in poultry. The technologies can be used in place of broad-spectrum antibiotics [...]

Food Security, Story 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Food Safety, Food Security, Indiana, North Central, Purdue University, Research

students and faculty examine samples under a microscope

Researchers find natural ways to provide sheep immunity from parasites

Overuse of antibiotics and dewormers in animal production can lead to the development of parasite resistance. As a result, conventional control programs relying solely on chemical interventions are becoming increasingly ineffective. At the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, researchers are looking for natural means of controlling livestock parasites. In a two-year study they tested black walnut-hull powder and a [...]

Food Security, Story 1890, 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Fiber Systems, Food Security, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Research

Dogs can be lifesavers for livestock

Like guardian angels, guardian dogs can be lifesavers for livestock. Increasing conflicts between livestock and predatory wildlife have prompted ranchers to seek effective and affordable protection for their cattle, sheep and other livestock. Through workshops, consultations and online resources, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension researchers help livestock producers manage and train livestock guardian dogs to effectively deter predators such as coyotes, [...]

Agricultural Systems, Story 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Extension, Food Systems, Profitability/Competitiveness, Southern, Texas, Texas A&M University

four people in beekeeper suits examine honeycombs from a beehive

Extension assists Michigan beekeepers to improve honeybee management

The Michigan State University Extension apiculture team partnered with the Michigan Beekeepers Association to conduct a needs assessment of the state’s small-scale beekeepers. Keeping bee colonies alive and disease identification and management were identified as the most important issues. An Extension apiculture educator then collaborated with Michigan beekeeping clubs to deliver in-person education on managing varroa mites and integrated pest management, [...]

Agricultural Systems, Story 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Extension, Food Security, Michigan, Michigan State University, North Central, Pest Management, Workforce Development and Readiness

cattle in a smoky wooded area

Wildfire smoke research provides insights to help ranchers protect their herds and reduce stress

Wildfires that scorched nearly 2 million acres in Eastern Oregon exposed many local cattle to significant levels of wildfire smoke. In the aftermath, cows across the state, on both dairy and beef operations, have been getting sick with symptoms like runny noses, runny eyes and severe discharge. An Oregon State University Extension Service beef specialist hypothesized that inhaling smoke dries [...]

Agricultural Systems, Story 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Extension, Food Security, Oregon, Oregon State University, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, Western

two scientists take a sample

Land-grant universities drive sustainability through innovative agricultural practices

The 1890 land-grant universities are dedicated to improving the well-being of economically challenged communities. By focusing on sustainable practices, these institutions help address key challenges like food security, environmental stewardship and economic resilience. Through research, Extension and education, they equip farmers and communities with innovative techniques that preserve resources for future generations. Here are a few examples of that work: Researchers [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 1890, 2025, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Alabama, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Central State University, Crop Management, Extension, Food Security, Food Systems, Fort Valley State University, Georgia, Langston University, Maryland, North Carolina, North Carolina A&T State University, Ohio, Oklahoma, Prairie View A&M University, Profitability/Competitiveness, Research, Rural Communities/Health, Soil Health, Specialty Crops, Tennessee, Tennessee State University, Texas, Tuskegee University, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Urban Agriculture, Water Resilience/Management, West Virginia, West Virginia State University, Workforce Development and Readiness

sheep in a field

Livestock education programs result in $1.5 million in savings

People need protein in their diet to maintain health. The Pennsylvania State University Livestock Extension team offered an array of educational programs to help beef cattle, goat, sheep and swine producers increase efficiency, profitability and produce a high-quality product. The team’s curriculum focused on basic production practices, reproduction, feeding, nutrition, health care, marketing practices and financial analysis. Online courses for [...]

Agricultural Systems, Story 2025, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Economic Development, Extension, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Profitability/Competitiveness, The Pennsylvania State University

young woman examines a plant in her garden

Historically Black land-grant universities reach diverse communities

In 1890, the Land-grant University System was expanded to include institutions for Black citizens. Today, these institutions continue to provide access to higher education for underserved communities, and their research and Extension programs impact people worldwide through advancements in agricultural productivity and sustainability, food security, human health, and community and youth development. Here are a few examples of that work: First-time [...]

Summary, Youth, Family, and Communities 1890, 2024, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Alabama, Alabama A&M University, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Arkansas, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, Broadband Access/Digital Literacy, Child and Family Resilience, Community Development/Engagement, Crop Management, Economic Development, Extension, Fort Valley State University, Georgia, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Prairie View A&M University, Research, Texas, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Youth Development/4-H

Dark storm clouds brewing over a field

Monitoring climate change to reduce emissions and waste

Land-grant universities are working to provide critical data, tools and strategies to help predict, monitor and mitigate climate change and its impacts on communities and natural resources. Here are a few examples of that work: Dairy waste is a major source of methane and nitrous oxide emissions, which contribute to global warming. Scientists in Washington showed that vermifiltration (which uses filters [...]

Environmental Stewardship, Summary 1890, 1994, 2024, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Ecosystem Services, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Research, Soil Health, Tennessee, Tennessee State University, The Pennsylvania State University, Washington, Washington State University, Waste Management, Western

brown chicken eggs in a carton

Improving safety of eating eggs through novel pathogen-killing method

Almost one in 10 cases of foodborne illness in the United States is associated with eggs. Americans eat, on average, 287 eggs per person annually. More than 14.1 billion eggs are incubated to produce chicks for the egg and poultry meat industries. Reducing the risk of disease-causing bacteria on eggshells is a priority for the industry, as is the [...]

Food Security, Story 2024, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Food Safety, Food Security, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Research, The Pennsylvania State University

black and white cow in a field

Research identifies antibiotic resistance markers that make meat and milk safer

The World Health Organization (WHO) named resistance to antimicrobials one of the top 10 global public health threats because it decreases the effectiveness of medicines and makes infections more difficult to treat. The degree of threat this poses to the food supply is still unclear. Researchers at Pennsylvania State University led an international team that found that dairy cows [...]

Nutrition and Health, Story 2024, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Food Safety, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, International/Global, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Research, The Pennsylvania State University, Water Resilience/Management

cattle walking through a field

Rapid response to animal and food safety and security threats

When disasters happen, land-grant universities are partners with local communities in sharing resources and information, providing training, offering testing and technical assistance and collaborating on future research. Timely and coordinated response efforts support local communities and producers and ensure access to a safe food supply. Here are a few examples of that work: Extension educators in Oregon responded quickly to coordinate [...]

Food Security, Summary 2024, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Emerging Infectious Diseases, Extension, Food Safety, Food Security, Kansas, Kansas State University, Michigan, Michigan State University, North Central, Northeast, Oregon, Oregon State University, University of Vermont, Vermont, Western

drone flying over crop

Drones, virtual fencing, gene technology moving agriculture forward

Land-grant universities and state research agencies are using multiple technologies to solve production challenges and provide educational outreach. From using drones to assess damage following natural disasters to GPS tracking to monitor livestock within the boundaries of virtual fencing, advances in technology are helping propel food and fiber production. Successful examples include: Following Hurricane Idalia, a Category 3 hurricane, Extension educators [...]

Agricultural Systems, Summary 2024, Advanced Breeding/Genomics, Animal Health/Management/Performance/Welfare, Emergency/Disaster Preparedness/Management/Recovery, Extension, Georgia, New Mexico, New Mexico State University, Northeast, Pennsylvania, Precision Agriculture, Research, Southern, The Pennsylvania State University, The University of Georgia, Western