Foreword to the Iowa State University
2009 Animal Industry Report

1221 Kildee Hall
Ames, IA 50011-3150
Ph. 515 294-2160
Fax 515 294-6994

January 2009


It is with great pleasure that we at Iowa State University bring you this annual report of the research activities that relate to the animal agriculture industries. This report combines research reports from faculty associated with various departments on campus, including Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Animal Science, Economics, Veterinary Diagnostics and Production Animal Medicine. We have attempted to bring you all of the research as it relates to the Beef, Dairy, Equine, Poultry, Sheep, Swine, and companion animal industries in the state of Iowa. This research is conducted to support the viability of each of these industries in Iowa. The research reported here is supported by the Iowa Agriculture and Home Economics Experiment Station.

The year of 2008 was an extremely trying year for animal agriculture in Iowa. Record high feed prices were a disaster for the cattle feeding and swine industries where record losses were reported in the fall by these industries. Because animal agriculture makes up 46% of the agriculture income and provides significant jobs for people in the state, this has serious consequences. Long term viability will be dependent upon improving the efficiency of operations so that they can become more profitable.

As you read through the research reports you will find a variety of research as it relates to the animal agriculture industries in Iowa. Some research relates to improving production efficiencies while other research relates to improving environmental quality, animal product food safety, and animal behavior and well-being. These all are important aspects of keeping animal agriculture strong and viable and contributing to the economy and quality of life in Iowa. I hope that you read the research reports and feel free to contact the authors of any report if you need further information.

Sincerely,


Maynard Hogberg
Professor and Chair
Department of Animal Science