Nolan Hartwig, Faculty, Veterinary Medicine
The diagnosis
of a bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) infected cow in late 2003 and a
second cow, belatedly diagnosed in May 2005, pose a significant threat to the
U.S. cattle industry, primarily by potentially undermining the consumer image
of beef as a safe, wholesome food. Beef has the highest economic value
of any agricultural commodity produced in the U.S.
The technical
nature of BSE and associated transmissible spongiform encephalopathies demands
intensive and effective educational presentations by trusted sources of research-based
information. Information and educational programs provided by Extension
Veterinary Medicine and the Iowa Beef Center made Iowa State University (ISU)
a nationally and internationally recognized source of accurate, reliable, research-based
information. Eighteen formal presentations and articles addressing BSE
were presented to the public, livestock producers, health groups, and others. Numerous
interviews were provided to the international (Japan and others), national,
regional, and local media. An estimated 180 requests for technical information
related to BSE were handled by Extension Veterinary Medicine. The Iowa
Beef Center also provided socio-economic analysis of the effects of BSE on
markets and consumers.
An international
symposium, attended by 230 scientists from throughout the world, was held in
Ames, Iowa in October 2004. Iowa State University was a co-sponsor of
this symposium. ISU Extension specialists and scientists played an active
role in the conference. In conjunction with the symposium, funding was
secured to present a general public seminar for producers, local regulatory
officials, university specialists, and veterinarians. University scientists
and USDA researchers were major presenters at this seminar.
The BSE
education program has played a major role in reassuring the public about the
safety of beef and dairy products, maintaining market viability, and enhancing
the security of a vital commodity in the state and nation.
2005
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Page last updated:
July 8, 2006
Page maintained by Linda Schultz, lschultz@iastate.edu
