Project abstract the nevada agricultural experiment station (NAES) has continuously and systematically reviewed and focused on programs to address nevada's highest-priority needs relevant to animal…

Project abstract the nevada agricultural experiment station (NAES) has continuously and systematically reviewed and focused on programs to address nevada's highest-priority needs relevant to animal health and disease. NAES fully subscribes to and supports the university's goal to achieve recognition as a 'fully engaged ' institution and is committed to the principles that have guided the land grant university system for more than 150 years. Our plan of work relevant to animal health and disease focuses on addressing several critical issues in the state. Nevada's number one agricultural commodity is its livestock industry and in particular, beef cattle. Improving the general health and productivity of domestic livestock and other income-producing animals essential to the nation's food supply and the welfare of producers and consumers of these animal products is an important issue for nevada. Competing interests present challenges to the general health and productivity of domestic livestock and wildlife on nevada's rangelands and forests/woodlands. Drought, excessive temperatures and wildfires in nevada and the great basin have greatly reduced available forage and water in these areas. Wild horse populations at 2 to 3 times appropriate management levels have also greatly impacted available resources. These resource limitations greatly impact the welfare of domestic livestock producers and their ability to raise livestock. Studies will be conducted to look at the various issues and to develop sustainable management practices to support a healthy balance between domestic livestock, wildlife and wild horse populations. Studies will also be conducted to develop breeds better suited to the harsh environments of the west, which will improve the general health and productivity of these domestic livestock. Transmission of disease between domestic and wild sheep is a concern in nevada and the great basin. The concern of transmission of various diseases to wild sheep from domestic sheep have greatly reduced land available for domestic sheep grazing. Studies will be conducted to develop newer breeds and better manage breeds of domestic sheep in order to minimize the transmission of diseases from domestic sheep to wild sheep. This will not only help protect the wild sheep population but will potentially open up more land for domestic sheep grazing and improve the welfare of the domestic sheep producers. Studies will be conducted to better understand and to develop population control management strategies for both ticks and mosquitos capable of transmitting diseases to livestock.