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Protecting trade from foreign animal diseases

Protecting trade and market access from foreign animal diseases.

A veterinarian for a commercial hog operation says she continues to monitor the movement of African Swine Fever. Bethany Heitkamp says if the virus entered the U.S., it would have a significant impact on trade.

“Around 30% of our pork leaves the United States,” she says. “If we contract African Swine Fever, all those trade agreements undergo increased scrutiny, and each country gets to decide whether they accept product from our country or not.”

She tells Brownfield strong biosecurity remains the best line of defense for producers against foreign animal diseases. 

“Utilizing your secure swine plan helps you be prepared as far as what methods of disposal you have, what methods of depopulation you have available, and what will work for your site.”

The Ohio Pork Council and Pork Checkoff provide resources for foreign animal disease preparedness. Visit FADready.org to use the new tool.

Brownfield interviewed Heitkamp during the 2025 Ohio Pork Congress.

AUDIO: Bethany Heitkamp