What's Happening?
A new report from the Farm Journal Foundation has identified 16 major biosecurity threats that are significantly impacting U.S. agriculture, leading to increased food prices and economic losses. The report,
titled 'THE MEAN SIXTEEN: Major Biosecurity Threats Facing U.S. Agriculture and How Policy Solutions Can Help,' outlines the challenges posed by pests and diseases across various agricultural sectors, including row crops, horticulture, specialty crops, livestock, and aquaculture. Notable threats include the New World screwworm in cattle and highly pathogenic avian influenza in poultry, which have caused substantial economic damage. The report emphasizes the need for increased investment in agricultural research and development to develop effective prevention and treatment strategies. Dr. Stephanie Mercier, Senior Policy Adviser at the Farm Journal Foundation, stresses the importance of strengthening systems to monitor and address outbreaks before they escalate.
Why It's Important?
The report underscores the critical need for enhanced biosecurity measures to protect U.S. agriculture from devastating pest and disease outbreaks. These threats not only jeopardize the profitability of farmers but also contribute to rising food prices for consumers. The lack of effective treatments for many of these diseases highlights the urgency for increased public investment in agricultural research. Such investments have historically yielded high returns, benefiting both the U.S. economy and global food security. The report also calls for public-private partnerships to address biosecurity threats, which could provide rapid responses to emerging challenges. By investing in agricultural science and disease prevention, the U.S. can safeguard its food supply and maintain its position as a global leader in agriculture.
What's Next?
The Farm Journal Foundation advocates for policy changes to increase funding for agricultural research and development. This includes supporting international research programs and public-private partnerships that can quickly respond to biosecurity threats. The report suggests that these measures are essential to prevent future outbreaks and protect the agricultural sector. Additionally, there is a call for the U.S. government to prioritize agricultural science and innovation to address ongoing challenges and prevent the next major outbreak. The foundation emphasizes the importance of coordinated, science-based responses to effectively manage and mitigate the impact of pests and diseases on U.S. agriculture.
