Livestock-Equine News: July 21, 2025

Chicken fertility rates expected to keep dropping through 2050

A study from Texas A&M shows chicken fertility rates in U.S. broiler eggs could decline to approximately 60% by 2050. USDA data from 2013 to 2022 revealed significant declines in hatchability, chick viability and production efficiency. “The analysis validates concerns that have circulated in the poultry industry for years,” said co-author Giri Athrey, PhD. Effective flock management techniques, such as sex-separate feeding and careful weight monitoring, are vital for improving reproductive viability among broiler breeders.

Cattle producers would welcome stiff tariff on Brazilian beef

A 50% tariff on Brazilian imports – a recent threat from the Trump administration – would be welcomed by U.S. cattle producers, according to Reuters. “Brazil’s exports (have) contributed to the shrinking of our U.S. cattle industry,” according to cattle producers’ association R-CALF USA. About $1.4 billion of beef was imported into the U.S. from Brazil in 2024, according to Bloomberg.

Study confirms porcine astrovirus 4 can cause respiratory disease in piglets

Investigators have concluded that porcine astrovirus 4 alone can cause respiratory disease. A team of investigators from North Carolina State University, USDA Agricultural Research Service, Iowa State University, and University of California Santa Cruz investigated if piglets infected with PoAstV4 exhibited reproducible lesions in the respiratory tract.They concluded that PoAstV4 should be considered a differential diagnosis for respiratory signs, particularly coughing, in suckling and early nursery pigs.

Cornell launches tool to monitor dairy emissions and costs

Cornell University has launched the Ruminant Farm Systems (RuFaS) modeling tool, intended to enable farmers and food processors to assess how changes in dairy farm management might influence its environmental impact, energy use and economics. The model – available at no cost – considers factors such as animal feed, crop growth and milk production, and predicts outcomes such as production costs, resource use and greenhouse gas emissions.

KEEP Foundation awards $80,000 in equine industry scholarships

The KEEP Foundation, in partnership with The Race for Education, proudly announced the 2025 recipients of its annual scholarship awards to students pursuing careers in the equine industry, agribusiness, veterinary sciences and other agriculture-related fields.

USDA unveils new food safety strategy and lab

The USDA’s newly opened Midwestern Food Safety Lab in Normandy, Missouri, houses USDA scientists who will help ensure the safety and proper labeling of meat, poultry and processed egg products, according to the agency. USDA’s new plan to bolster food safety includes enhancing microbiological testing and inspection oversight and equipping inspectors with updated training and tools.