Manitoba Pork is partnering with the Manitoba Livestock Manure Management Initiative (MLMMI) and Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (MAFRD) on a research project that will allow producers to sample the manure in their pits for the presence of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV).

“In addition to providing us with a better grasp of the PEDV situation in Manitoba, the project will also enable custom manure applicators to take appropriate measures to prevent the transmission of the virus from one client to another,” explains Karl Kynoch, chair of Manitoba Pork. “Producer input is vital to the success of this project.”

To participate in the project, Manitoba producers can contact project coordinator, Darlene Meakin, at (204)v897-0622 or email [email protected].

The project goals are to:

To respect farm biosecurity, Manitoba producers are asked to collect samples seven to 14 days before manure application is scheduled and submit the samples on the same day they are collected. The province’s swine veterinarians are prepared to provide producers with instructions about submitting samples.

All supply, courier and diagnostic expenses are covered. The project will run until October 30, 2014.

Learn more at the Manitoba Pork website here.