South Dakota Pork Producer to Head USAHA

October 31, 2007 — 

James Leafstedt, a pork producer from Alcester, S.D., was elected president of the U.S. Animal Health Association (USAHA) at its 111th meeting here this week. USAHA is an organization of state and federal animal health officials, practicing veterinarians, livestock producers, research scientists and others concerned with animal health.

Nearly 1,400 people attended this year's week-long conference, held in conjunction with the 50th annual meeting of the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians (AAVLD), to discuss issues related to the health of farm livestock, wildlife, poultry and fish.

The featured topic at this year's joint scientific session was "Examining the Roles of USAHA and AAVLD Concerning Major Food Animal Diseases." Presentations were made on Salmonella in poultry, viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS) in fish, scrapie in sheep, bovine viral diarrhea (BVD), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS), equine infectious anemia (EIA) and Johne's disease.

President Leafstedt indicated he has three goals for the organization under his leadership, including involving producers and membership services of the association.

"We will need to keep our focus on enhancing the success of the producers out there," Leafstedt said. "Additionally, USAHA is in a position to build on its transition with new staff to enhance our ability to better serve the membership."

Leafstedt's third focus relates to USAHA's role in relevant issues, and how the organization relates to both state and federal agencies, through resolutions and government relations.

Source:
USAHA Press Release