BioSec Bob here on Friday, July 3, 2026 — let’s get right into it.
Iowa Agribusiness Radio Network is covering efforts to strengthen swine herd health through targeted feed additives. Producers in Iowa are looking at nutrition-based strategies to support immune function and reduce disease pressure in finishing and breeding operations. The specifics of which additives are showing the most promise, and at what cost-benefit ratio, remain important variables as operations evaluate their feed programs heading into the second half of the year.
Out West, the AG INFORMATION NETWORK OF THE WEST is reporting that a heat wave is putting poultry operations on high alert. Rising temperatures create immediate challenges for bird comfort, feed intake, and overall flock performance. Water quality and ventilation systems are taking center stage as producers work to keep birds cool and productive through the hot stretch.
Shifting to a developing international situation — Panay News is reporting that African Swine Fever has been confirmed in Iloilo province in the Philippines. The first confirmed case was detected in Barotac Viejo. Iloilo authorities are tightening biosecurity protocols and restricting hog movement in and out of the affected area. This marks a significant disease event in a major swine-producing region.
Closer to home on the poultry disease front, KTVB is reporting that Idaho dairies have come under quarantine as avian influenza continues to spread. State officials are urging producers across the region to strengthen biosecurity measures on their operations. The quarantine affects dairy facilities, and officials are monitoring the situation closely as the virus moves through affected counties.
On the infrastructure and opportunity side, the USDA has launched Phase Four of its Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program, according to AgNet West. This phase of federal support is aimed at increasing processing capacity and supporting producers who want to develop local and regional market channels. Eligible operations in poultry and meat processing can now apply for funding through this round.
Finally, Pork Business has pulled together perspectives from four swine experts on the return on investment from farm technology. The conversation centers on what’s actually working financially on commercial operations and where technology spending still struggles to deliver measurable payback. Real-world data and honest assessment from producers who’ve invested heavily in automation and monitoring systems.
Keep your water systems running and your biosecurity protocols sharp through the holiday weekend.