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Minnesota State Fair confident in livestock disease prevention

The Minnesota State Fair is confident its protocols are enough to prevent the introduction of African swine fever.

Several Midwestern states, including Iowa, have implemented additional swine health inspection requirements because of the threat of ASF.

Kent Thiesse helps with 4-H livestock exhibits and says State Fair officials and Minnesota Board of Animal Health officials have been very specific about proper protocols to help prevent disease.

“And that’s true whether it’s African swine fever or other diseases. That’s part of the educational process the 4-H’ers go through.”

He tells Brownfield every member gets trained on proper animal care and management.

“4-H members are encouraged to use proper biosecurity methods. All of the barns have washing stations to wash hands and take care of things.”

Thiesse also points out most of the hogs shown at the Fair go directly to market.

The Minnesota State Fair begins August 22^nd and ends on Labor Day.