Michigan Alliance for Animal Agriculture will invest $2.6 million in 2019 to support research and outreach that benefits the animal agriculture industries.

Addressing short- and long-term industry priorities linked to sustainability — managing antibiotic resistance, curbing infectious diseases, improving animal welfare and boosting environmental stewardship — are the initiative’s primary goals.

Twenty projects were chosen for funding in 2019. Grants are awarded in one of three categories: research, extension or seed funding.

“We really value the ability to help direct university research toward issues that are affecting farmers today,” says Mary Kelpinski, the CEO of the Michigan Pork Producers Association. “Serving as one of the reviewers allows me the opportunity to make sure the funded research proposals are benefiting today’s farming needs and future challenges. Farming has changed over the years, and we need to continue to find ways to raise more food in a safer, more sustainable manner to feed our growing populations.”

Jeannine Schweihofer, a meat quality MSU Extension educator, is examining shelf-life and packaging concerns associated with uncured vacuum-packaged meat products. The objective is to increase efficiency for processors, enabling the production of larger batches of products while reducing the time and resources expended.

Maninderpal Singh, an assistant professor in the MSU Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, leads the first project to receive joint funding from M-AAA and Project GREEEN (Generating Research and Extension to meet Economic and Environmental Needs). Project GREEEN operates a competitive grants program similar to M-AAA for research and outreach within plant agriculture.

Singh is seeking to improve the management of ear rot and fungal contamination of corn silage, a valuable feedstuff for cattle, swine and poultry. Contamination can result in health challenges for these animals.

Elizabeth Ferry, an MSU Extension educator, is using M-AAA funding to provide outreach and training on emergency response preparedness for accidents or emergencies that involve livestock.

First responders often don’t have the training or equipment to handle livestock trailer accidents. This training will help first responders know what equipment is needed and how to use it to safely and humanely move livestock.

“The dedicated funding drives more targeted research to address Michigan-specific issues,” says Ron Bates, the director of the MSU Extension Agriculture and Agribusiness Institute. “The M-AAA improves our ability to quickly and effectively communicate these research results back to Michigan farmers in forms they can use to improve their farm businesses.”

For a complete list of 2019 projects, visit maaa.msu.edu/projects.

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