Project Title: A pilot project to determine the feasibility of controlling PRRS within a selected region.

Institution: College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota.

Outcome/Results: Pork producers are sharing PRRS status and control experience in an effort to prevent spread in the region.

The purpose of this project was to determine if pork producers within a defined region were willing to test their herds for PRRS virus, share the results with other cooperating producers, and share the results of their control methods. We have had over 90% participation by producers and have made substantial progress within the region for producers’ sharing PRRS status and control experiences. An encouraging observation is the lack of evidence of spread of PRRS virus among sites belonging to different owners. The current challenge within the region is for several owners of positive sow herds to take the risk and accept the cost of attempting to eliminate PRRS from their herds. We are optimistic that they will take this next step.