The ohio state university will enhance biosecurity awareness and adoption among rural communities that are not typically represented by livestock associations

The Ohio State University received a $179,732 Cooperative Agreement from the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) under the Plant and Animal Disease, Pest Control, and Animal Care program (CFDA 10.025), effective September 1, 2025, through August 31, 2027. The project will develop and deliver targeted biosecurity awareness and preparedness materials and training programs for underrepresented rural livestock producers, particularly Plain and Amish communities, who have limited access to mainstream animal disease prevention resources. Recognizing these populations' vulnerability to foreign animal disease (FAD) threats, the university will create a biosecurity-focused curriculum and supporting educational materials designed to enhance disease prevention knowledge and response capacity.

To maximize reach and adoption, the project implements a train-the-trainer model in which agricultural extension professionals will be trained to deliver the curriculum to farmers and ranchers within these unique rural communities. The curriculum will also be disseminated through existing state-level producer certification and recertification training programs. By targeting both livestock producers and front-line animal health workers, the initiative aims to strengthen Ohio's livestock industry resilience against FAD outbreaks while protecting the economic interests and livelihoods of rural agricultural communities.

This project aims to prepare these remote and rural populations to respond to animal health threats from foreign animal diseases (FAD) and safeguard the state's livestock industry. The project focuses on developing targeted educational materials and training programs for rural livestock owners who may have limited access to mainstream information resources related to animal disease prevention and preparedness (e.g., plain and amish communities). The project will develop a biosecurity-focused curriculum and supporting educational materials. The project includes a train-the-trainer program that will help agriculture extension professionals deliver this information to farmers and ranchers in these unique rural communities. This curriculum will also be delivered by leveraging existing state-level producer certification/recertification trainings. The project will conduct outreach and engagement efforts targeting underrepresented and small-scale livestock producers. Producers and front-line animal health workers benefit from this project by having opportunities to learn about FAD biosecurity. The project will ensure a safe food supply and protect the livelihoods and economic opportunities of farmers, ranchers, and rural communities.