February 03, 2025

Episode #72: Ready for Anything - The Essential Role of U.S. SHIP

37 minutes

In the latest episode of the SwineTime podcast, host Dr. Spencer Wayne takes a deep dive into the U.S. Swine Health Improvement Plan (US SHIP), joined by experts Drs. Tyler Holck, Tom Wetzell, and Vienna Brown, all of whom play key roles within the program.

U.S. SHIP is a voluntary program designed to safeguard, improve, and represent the health status of swine across participating farm sites, supply chains, states, and regions. Dr. Holck breaks down how this program isn’t just about

compliance—it’s about giving producers the tools and resources to protect their herds and stay competitive in the global market.

Dr. Wetzell shares how U.S. SHIP builds teamwork, bringing

together farmers, veterinarians, packers, and regulators to focus on herd health and disease preparedness. From practical tips for tracking herd status to how this program can open market opportunities even in the face of a foreign

animal disease outbreak, the conversation is packed with real-world insights for producers who want to stay ahead of the curve. If you’ve been hearing about U.S. SHIP and wondering what it’s all about, this episode is for you.

Dr. Vienna Brown outlines how U.S. SHIP is transitioning

from a pilot program into a fully recognized U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) initiative, set to be acknowledged by U.S. trade partners. Tune in to hear how this move is paving the way for a stronger, more secure future for U.S. pork production.

Learn more here:

Find USDA draft rule and proposed standards: www.regulations.gov.

U.S. SHIP website: https://usswinehealthimprovementplan.com/

Official State Agencies:

Iowa: https://iowaagriculture.gov/ship

Minnesota: https://bah.state.mn.us/swine

South Dakota: https://aib.sd.gov/swine.html

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