The ASF mini-grants will fund science-based ASF insights and introduce VS to new methods and datasets for addressing challenges in ASF preparedness and response

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) awarded a $103,121.46 Cooperative Agreement to Colorado State University under the Plant and Animal Disease, Pest Control, and Animal Care Federal Grant Program (CFDA 10.025). The funding will support the "ASF Mini-Grants" project, which aims to generate science-based insights on African Swine Fever (ASF) preparedness and response, introduce new methods and datasets to USDA, and provide graduate students from diverse disciplines the opportunity to propose projects that address ASF challenges. The project will run from April 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025, potentially providing a pipeline of talent for the USDA workforce. Through this Cooperative Agreement, Colorado State University's Sponsored Programs division will leverage its expertise in areas such as wildlife management, infectious disease research, and agricultural research to deliver the desired products and services.

The mini-grants will also introduce graduate students from a wide array of disciplines to USDA, potentially providing a pipeline for the USDA workforce. The ASF mini-grants make IT possible for graduate students to propose projects that are linked to their expertise and interests, helping set them up for success. Graduate students will also gain experience in tailoring research products to respond to the needs and interests of a broad community of decisionmakers outside of academia.