Texas a & M university will establish a national community of practice to enhance collaboration and response to foreign animal disease (FAD) outbreaks in the U.S., with a specific focus on small to…

Award Details: Texas A&M Agrilife Research received a $145,055 Cooperative Agreement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) under the Plant and Animal Disease, Pest Control, and Animal Care program (CFDA 10.025). The award began September 1, 2025, with a completion date of August 31, 2027.

Products and Services: Under this agreement, Texas A&M will establish a National Community of Practice focused on enhancing collaboration and response to Foreign Animal Disease (FAD) outbreaks affecting small to medium-sized livestock producers. The project leverages the Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) model to connect FAD experts, livestock producers, veterinarians, and public health officials for knowledge sharing and real-time problem-solving. Key deliverables include development of a centralized resource repository containing case studies, protocols, and best practices for FAD preparedness and response. By facilitating rapid disease containment and enabling producers to resume operations quickly during FAD events, the project supports food supply safety and protects rural communities' economic viability.

Texas a & M university will establish a national community of practice to enhance collaboration and response to foreign animal disease (FAD) outbreaks in the U.S., with a specific focus on small to medium-sized livestock producers. These producers often face unique challenges, including limited access to expert knowledge, real-time information, and critical resources for disease prevention and response. By leveraging the echo (extension for community healthcare outcomes) model, this project will connect FAD experts with livestock producers, veterinarians, and public health officials to facilitate knowledge sharing and real time problem-solving. The project will also develop a repository of resources, including case studies, protocols, and best practices for FAD preparedness and response. This project benefits farmers, ranchers and producers by providing experience and support to emergency responders, resulting in rapid containment of disease and allowing producers to return to business as quickly as possible during a FAD. The project will ensure a safe food supply and protect rural communities' economic opportunities.