This $1,000,000 project grant from the United States Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA NIFA) Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) program (CFDA 10.310) will fund the development of holistic interventions to address infectious diseases and heat stress exacerbated by climate change challenges facing the $34.68 billion U.S. egg industry. Over four years, researchers at The Ohio State University will work with egg supply chain stakeholders to assess needs in cage-free egg production, develop interventions to enhance bird performance and disease resistance, and create innovative ventilation systems to mitigate heat stress and disease transmission. The project will also establish translational extension programs and multidisciplinary curricula to equip farmers and future workforces with the knowledge and tools developed through this research. Key outcomes include new understanding of the microbiome in cage-free housing and effective interventions to improve hen health, immunity and performance; ventilation innovations; and education programs. This work supports AFRI priorities of precision animal management and environmental synergies in animal agriculture to contribute to healthy and sustainable U.S. egg production.
Mod # | Description | Reason For Modification | Federal Obligation (Click to sort descending) | Date (Click to sort ascending) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Not listed | $1.0m | 4/4/23 |