Over a year ago we put together the Annual Meeting program centered around the theme “Be There” with the collective message to support the pigs in our care, the clients we serve, and the members of our association. Little did we know that 2023 would end up to be one of the worst economic climates for pig farmers ever. All hog farm clients experienced financial stress as weaned piglets became nearly worthless during the summer months due to peaking input costs. Fortunately, the productivity of the national herd in general was able to break through some significant challenges and march forward with greater piglets weaned per sow and greater overall herd productivity. Herd health appears to be stable as well, with reduced porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome prevalence as referenced in the Morrison Swine Health Monitoring Program database.
My challenge to the AASV membership is to continue to be there as the advocate for the pig. We need to tackle tough challenges within reach, such as porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) elimination. We need to further understand why we see pockets of new diseases like sapovirus, Senecavirus, and others. We have the tools to quickly identify these challenges. We also can work with our clients on control and elimination programs using breeding projects and biosecurity to rid the industry of these headaches and improve the herds in our care.
The history of my appreciation for the “Be There” theme comes from a relationship with one of my favorite clients. Bill Gray used to tell me “Some of the most important decisions on the planet will be made by those who choose to show up.” We would travel together to public hearings on the Livestock Facilities Act proposed in the Illinois government. The message to show up and volunteer to be there was critical to support intelligent structure in the manner that livestock facilities would be governed. The same philosophy applies to client service for a serious health break or even the decision to be there for a friend in need.
This will be my last article as president of the AASV. I am excited to share the responsibilities of the executive committee with newly elected leaders. There is unfinished business I am asking all of us to continue to support and see it through. Support the development of the US Swine Health Improvement Plan for a national herd health debate and framework. Support the herd traceability efforts of the US Department of Agriculture to maintain industry function should a foreign disease be identified. Support the PEDV Elimination Task Force as they begin to work on strategy for a national effort to rid the country of this disease. Support the ongoing committees and educational programs critical to service our herds and our membership. Be there for the early career veterinarians as mentors and career development coaches. Be there for clients who are hopeful to see financial recovery and industry reinvestment.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve as AASV president, it has been an honor.
William L Hollis, DVM
AASV President