Emergency Management - Projects active in 2015

Research-to-Go Summary of current research funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs-University of Guelph Partnership

Emergency Management Projects Active in 2015

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Contents Optimal Design and Configuration of Detection Strategies for Foreign Pests and Diseases to Support Emergency Management in the Agricultural Sector..................................................................................... 2 Fate of invasive and herbicide resistant weed seeds after anaerobic digestion .......................................... 4 Assessment of the Distribution and Natural Enemies of the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug in Southern Ontario .......................................................................................................................................................... 7 Responsible antibiotic use on Ontario dairy farms – approaches, outcomes and attitudes ...................... 10 Creation of an insect pest risk assessment tool for Ontario agriculture .................................................... 13 Threat Assessment for the Spotted Winged Drosophila (SWD) in Southern Ontario ................................ 15 Fate and Transport of Emerging Contaminants after Manure Application ................................................ 17 Microbiological Risks and Mitigation Strategies in the Application of Recycled Sand Bedding used in Dairy Operations ......................................................................................................................................... 20 Diseases threatening vegetable crops in Ontario ....................................................................................... 22 Assessment of the potential disease risks posed by wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) to domestic poultry flocks in Ontario ............................................................................................................................. 25 Prevalence of Enteric Disease Agents in Ontario Commercial Rabbits: Zoonotic Potential and Impact on Animal Health ............................................................................................................................................. 28 Prevalence and strain identification of Coxiella burnetii on dairy goat farms and in associated wildlife .. 31 The design and analysis of experiments and observational studies on infectious disease spread in the livestock industries. .................................................................................................................................... 33 Complex mathematical and statistical modelling of between-farm disease transmission in the Ontario swine industry. ............................................................................................................................................ 36 Characterizing Streptococcus suis from clinical cases and healthy-carrier pigs ......................................... 39 Novel immunological compounds as an emergency response tool for control of avian influenza virus ... 42 Development of PCR method for the rapid detection of Cylindrocladium buxicola; a new invasive species of boxwood in North America..................................................................................................................... 44 Development of risk-based and consequence-based approaches to surveillance in swine populations using PRRS virus as a model ........................................................................................................................ 46 Efficacy and cost-effectiveness of control strategies for newly emerging forms of swine dysentery ....... 48

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Project Title

Optimal Design and Configuration of Detection Strategies for Foreign Pests and Diseases to Support Emergency Management in the Agricultural Sector

Submission number

UofG2012-1296

Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Funding Program

Emergency Management detection methods, EAB, cost-effective Alfons Weersink University of Guelph 02/06/2013 End Date

OMAFRA - U of G Research

29/05/2015

Abstract Pre-event and event components of emergency management for problems caused by animal and plant pests or diseases require understanding the extent of the outbreak. The underlying organisms are often cryptic and multiple choices exist for efforts assessing the spatial existence and intensity of the disease. These efforts involve different levels of resources and different expectations regarding the level of information received. Relatively cheap but imprecise search methods or more extensive, costly approaches with greater accuracy could be used to determine the extent of the outbreak. This work will provide a theoretical depiction of the problem regarding the means to obtain information on the extent of an outbreak associated with an animal or plant disease. The issue will be illustrated for an emerging insect problem for which good quality data is available (i.e. the Emerald Ash Borer). The study will help identify cost-effective information gathering strategies to deal with this present problem and also provide a knowledge base to better deal with future emergency management issues related to plant and animal pests and diseases in the agricultural sector.

Objectives The purpose of this study is to enhance the decision-making capabilities of public policy decision makers facing a plant or animal pest and disease outbreak. The specific objectives are: a) to develop a theoretical model highlighting the factors influencing the optimal choice of information gathering techniques on the spatial distribution and intensity of the pest and disease; b) to identify emergency management planning best practice techniques addressing this issue in other jurisdictions; c) to develop a decision-making tool for policy makers that determines the cost-effective approach to gather information on the pest and disease outbreak; d) to evaluate the current range of detection choices for dealing with EAB; e) to illustrate the approach for the optimal design and configuration of information gathering strategies for another potential, emerging pest and disease outbreak; and

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f) to link up with other OMAFRA projects dealing with disease management to provide a comprehensive evaluation perspective.

Benefits The benefits of the research will accrue largely to public policy and operations decision makers for emergency management of animal and plant pests and diseases. A first step in determining the appropriate course of action is collecting baseline data on the likelihood and impact of the risk posed by the pest and disease of concern. There are alternative means of gathering information on the spatial extent and the intensity of the disease but these alternatives involve tradeoffs in terms of costs and accuracy. This study will provide a characterization of these choices and improve the understanding of how the appropriate detection method can be best selected. For example, information on the boundary of the pests and diseases and their rate of spread is required to make subsequent decisions on response and mitigation to control the outbreak. The research team will work closely with one current Emergency Management funded project led

by Mike Von Massow (Development of a Framework for Cost Benefit Analysis in Emergency Management) and a potential project led by Zvonimir Poljak (Efficacy and cost-effectiveness of control strategies for newly emerging forms of swine dysentery). The collaboration will provide insights into the spectrum of choices facing decision makers managing a pest or disease problem.

The case study with Emerald Ash Borer provides knowledge for a current applicable problem that many Ontario municipalities are facing. The study will provide valuable information on how these communities can cost-effectively spend the millions of public dollars allocated to deal with the EAB issue. In addition, the study will provide a knowledge base for public officials to better deal with related future emergency management issues. Improved policy making benefits the industries affected through minimizing the threat of trade restrictions such as quarantine regulations. Through the development and identification of decisionmaking tools for gathering information on the spatial extent and intensity of a disease, the policy choices for controlling and treating foreign pests and diseases will be improved.

Co-Funder List • •

Dept of Food, Agr & Resource Economics Natural Resources Canada

Team Member Collaborating Specialist

1. Dr. Dan McKenney Natural Resources Canada 2. Dr. Krista Ryall

CanmetENERGY / Natural Resources Canada Non-UofG Collaborator

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Research-to-Go Summary of current research funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs-University of Guelph Partnership

Project Title

Fate of invasive and herbicide resistant weed seeds after anaerobic digestion

Submission number

UofG2013-1735

Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Funding Program

OMAFRA - U of G Research

Emergency Management biogas, biomass, biosecurity, switchgrass, Phragmites Brandon Gilroyed University of Guelph 02/06/2014 End Date 30/10/2015

Abstract Anaerobic digestion (AD) is an important component of Ontario’s developing bioeconomy. Feedstocks for AD systems include biomass crops and agricultural residues which contain seeds, some of which may be invasive weeds or carry herbicide resistant traits. Dissemination of invasive, weedy, or herbicide resistant plants in the agricultural ecosystem is undesirable for economic and environmental reasons. Due to the massive quantities of feedstock required for commercial AD operation, such systems concentrate material from a variety of sources which increases potential biosecurity risks. Seeds that enter the AD process and survive will subsequently be applied to agricultural land as part of the nutrient-rich digestate used as fertilizer. Although it has been previously established that seed survival is reduced during AD, most experiments to date have been conducted using lab scale equipment and have not focused on several species of interest in Ontario. We propose to investigate the survival of seeds from several perennial grass biomass species, common weed species, and weed species with demonstrated herbicide resistance, in an operating 250 kWe commercial AD system. The expected outcomes include an assessment of the risk posed by weed seeds entering AD systems, enabling prioritization of management strategies and development of BMP’s for AD feedstocks.

Objectives The overall objective of the project is to determine the risk that seeds from plants which are invasive, weeds, and/or herbicide resistant pose on agricultural land after AD in a commercial scale digester. Specific objectives include: 1. Determine seed survival of biomass crop seeds, including P. virgatum, P. arundinacea, and P. australis, in a commercial scale AD system

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2. Determine seed survival of several weed species, including those with demonstrated herbicide resistant traits, such as giant ragweed, common ragweed, Canada fleabane, redroot pigweed, velvetleaf, green foxtail, lamb’s quarters, and barnyard grass 3. Distinguish between the effects of anaerobic microbial degradation and time-temperature reduction in seed viability 4. Compare and contrast laboratory germination and tetrazolium staining to greenhouse germination and cold-moist stratification as tests for seed viability and dormancy

Benefits The province of Ontario has made a major commitment to renewable energy production, including biogas produced during anaerobic digestion (AD). There are currently 35 AD facilities operating in Ontario, producing 17,500 kWe, and 50 additional AD systems are expected under the second generation Feed In Tariff program (FIT 2)(OMAF, 2013). Although the number of AD facilities in the province is small compared to regions such as Germany (>7500 installations), their impact is increasing in significance. A 250 kWe AD system on the University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus requires ~30 tonnes of feedstock daily which, when extrapolated to 35-50 systems province wide, creates a “substrate vacuum”. Potential feedstocks for AD include livestock manures, crop residues, food processing waste, municipal organic waste, and purpose grown biomass crops. Nutrient-rich effluent leaving the AD process, known as digestate, can be used as a fertilizer on agricultural land. Thus, the total lifecycle of AD systems affects those producers and industries that generate feedstocks, those who operate the AD facilities themselves, and receivers of digestate.

Development of a successful bioeconomy based on renewable agricultural resources will be of benefit to all citizens of Ontario, producing positive environmental, economic, and social effects. While renewable technologies such as AD offer a host of benefits, adoption of AD has been slowed by a variety of factors.

Among these are uncertainties over the technology, investment costs, and regulatory challenges. Increasing understanding and de-risking renewable energy technologies will be a boon to technology providers, while establishment of a sustainable bioeconomy will result in employment opportunities for agricultural producers and processors throughout the province of Ontario. Weed management is an issue of great economic importance to the agriculture industry, with developments in best management practices necessary to mitigate the effects of traditionally important weeds, new invasive species, and emerging herbicide resistance. In Ontario, AD systems are a new but poorly understood variable in the equation for weed control, so the data obtained from this project will be important for determining risk and instituting BMP's.

Co-Funder List •

NSERC

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Agricultural Adaptation Councel

Team Member 1. Dr. Darren Robinson University of Guelph

UofG Faculty (On Campus)

2. Dr. Peter Sikkema

University of Guelph

UofG Faculty (On Campus)

3. Mr. Kurtis Baute

University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus UofG Graduate Student OMAFRA Staff

4. Mr. Mike Cowbrough University of Guelph

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Research-to-Go Summary of current research funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs-University of Guelph Partnership

Project Title

Assessment of the Distribution and Natural Enemies of the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug in Southern Ontario

Submission number

UofG2012-1327

Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Funding Program

Emergency Management Brown marmorated stinkbug, survey Cynthia Scott-Dupree University of Guelph 01/05/2013 End Date

OMAFRA - U of G Research

30/04/2015

Abstract Brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) is an invasive pest native to subtropical and temperate areas in East Asia. Up to 300 hosts have been reported in the literature, including important fruit, vegetable and agronomic crops, and ornamental trees and shrubs. Where established, BMSB causes significant widespread economic losses in affected crops. Chemical controls have not been effective, and appear disruptive to established IPM programs in targeted crops. Zhu et al. (2012) forecasted the potential geographic spread of invasive BMSB based on climatic requirements and current distribution of this species in Asia, and suggested areas most at risk included north eastern North America. Since 2001, BMSB has been detected in 39 US states as single finds in private residences and as established populations. The first official records of BMSB in Ontario occurred in 2010 (Fogain and Graff, 2011). In August 2012, an established breeding population was confirmed in Hamilton, Ontario. Early detection is critical in mitigating potential damage. This project will assess the distribution and abundance of BMSB in southern Ontario; identify habitats suitable for BMSB build-up and associated agricultural areas at high risk for damage; and develop an inventory of BMSB natural enemies in southern Ontario.

Objectives We propose to conduct a study on BMSB by: 1. Assessing the distribution and abundance of, and patterns of host use by BMSB in southern Ontario; 2. Identifying agricultural areas in southern Ontario at risk from BMSB impact; and 3. Developing an inventory of natural enemies of BMSB that exist in southern Ontario to determine whether endemic parasitoids and predators of Pentatomidae use BMSB as a resource. This will provide baseline data on the potential for augmentative biological control of BMSB in Canada.

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To facilitate knowledge transfer on the status of BMSB in Ontario, we propose to: 4. Develop information for use in communications including websites (e.g., ontario.ca\stinkbug, stopBMSB.org), newsletters, tweets / blogs, conferences, online tools for IPM (e.g., CropIPM), outreach to traditional (i.e., grower) and non-traditional (e.g., homeowner, botanical gardens, pest control companies and tourism) stakeholder groups.

Benefits Ontario agricultural producers will benefit from knowledge regarding the economic impact posed by BMSB. In the US, the unexpected arrival and delayed identification of populations of BMSB precluded implementation of control measures when populations were relatively low during the early stages of establishment. In contrast, early identification of established populations of BMSB in Ontario will facilitate response and ensure implementation of management strategies limiting crop damage. Investigation of its population build-up and movement between natural habitats, agricultural and horticultural crops throughout the growing season will generate information necessary for development of control strategies to minimize economic impact in crops. Further, this type of data will indicate which crops are most at risk, and when during the growing season, thereby allowing appropriately-timed monitoring and control measures to be implemented. Coupled with public education programs that promote reporting, and targeted surveys in crops and landscape hosts - critical baseline information on distribution and abundance of BMSB will be generated.

Control of BMSB with insecticides has not been that successful in the US primarily due to lack of products with prove efficacy. It is likely that the same situation will arise in Canada and therefore it is imperative that we find alternative strategies (i.e. augmentative biological control) to focus on when developing IPM programs for this invasive pest. To this end, an inventory of natural enemies parasitizing BMSB will be established in order to determine the potential for augmentative biological control programs using endemic natural enemies. This is particularly important in urban areas and natural habitats bordering agricultural crops, where populations of BMSB are known to build up.

The results of this research will benefit the Emergency Management theme by providing data on the potential spread and establishment of an economically important threat to several Ontario agricultural commodities including tree fruit, berries, grapes, vegetables, field, greenhouse and nursery crops. Surveys will provide information on patterns of host plant use in both urban and rural settings in Ontario. The effectiveness of new pheromone traps for early detection of BMSB also will be evaluated.

Co-Funder List • •

Ontario Processing Vegetable Growers Niagara Peninsula Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association

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Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association Grain Farmers of Ontario Ontario Tender Fruit Marketing Board Ontario Apple Growers Grape Growers of Ontario Niagara Peninsula Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association

Team Member 1. Ms. Hannah Fraser

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

Collaborating Specialist

2. Tracey Baute

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

Collaborating Specialist

3. Dr. Tara Garapiey

Collaborators

Collaborating Specialist

University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus

Technician

4.

Ms. Jennifer Bruggeman

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Research-to-Go Summary of current research funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs-University of Guelph Partnership

Project Title

Responsible antibiotic use on Ontario dairy farms – approaches, outcomes and attitudes

Submission number

UofG2013-1622

Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Funding Program

OMAFRA - U of G Research

Production Systems Animals,Emergency Management dairy cattle antibiotics attitudes outcomes David Kelton University of Guelph 01/05/2014 End Date 30/04/2017

Abstract The recent Ontario Medical Association white paper entitled ‘When antibiotics stop working’ has brought the use of antibiotics in animal agriculture under scrutiny. Mastitis is the most costly disease of dairy cattle, and also the target for the greatest antibiotic use on dairy farms. The implementation of the Canadian Quality Milk (CQM) program has brought some standardization to recording of antibiotic use on dairy farms.

While producers are subject to CQM audits as part of the provincial inspection program administered by Dairy Farmers of Ontario, there has not been a formal evaluation of the quality or quantity of the treatment records, the outcomes associated with mastitis treatment and antibiotic use, nor the attitudes of dairy farmers towards treatment recording or outcome assessment. The objectives of this study are to address these issues and to identify differences in approaches and attitudes among three distinct groups, tie-stall farms, free-stall parlour milked farms and farms utilizing robotic milking, to identify common and unique challenges. The outcomes of this work will contribute to the development of more effective strategies for treatment outcome assessment with the ultimate goal of decreasing the inappropriate use of antibiotics through the evaluation and elimination of ineffective treatment protocols.

Objectives The goal is to increase understanding of the rationale, quantity and quality of antibiotic use for mastitis treatment and develop novel approaches to promote treatment and outcome recording in support of prudent antimicrobial use.

1. To use CQM treatment records to describe antibiotic use for the treatment of mastitis on Ontario dairy farms in terms of numbers and types of treatments, and compare use in tie-stall, free-stall parlour and freestall robot milked herds.

2. To determine how often, and from what source, pathogen is used in selecting a protocol, and verify that treatment is appropriate for the pathogen.

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3. To determine how often outcomes (success/failure) of treatment are recorded, and in their absence, use existing SCC and retreatment data to estimate success.

4. To investigate barriers to treatment and outcome recording to develop strategies that will support improved outcome assessment for more appropriate and prudent use of antibiotics.

Benefits The benefits from this research will accrue to the dairy producer community, the veterinary community and the public under both the Production Systems Animal and Emergency Management themes.

Under Production Systems Animal this work will address the first Animal Health Priority (“Develop alternative methods that effectively and economically reduce the risk of infectious disease”) by critically evaluating the mastitis treatment protocols that are in place on all Ontario dairy farms. Control of infectious disease is best accomplished by prevention of infection and rapid elimination of infection if it does occur. If we find that these protocols are effective, then we will be confident that what we are doing is in fact effectively controlling mastitis risk with the prudent and responsible use of antibiotics. If we find that some of the protocols are ineffective, we can then move to addressing the deficiencies, why they occur and if necessary developing alternative methods for mastitis treatment and control, including increasing the focus on new and innovative prevention strategies and diagnostic technologies. Outcome assessment of treatment protocols is lacking in most animal and human therapeutic plans, and this work will move the dairy industry forward in the routine implementation of outcome assessment. By investigating the degree to which treatment outcome is assessed on Ontario dairy farms, identifying barriers to effective outcome assessment and then developing strategies to promote it, this work will increase the efficacy of mastitis treatment as well as potentially reducing the amount of antibiotic used in protocols that are deemed to be not effective.

The proposed studies will also address the second Animal Health priority, Animal Welfare, in that mastitis is known to cause pain, and thus prompt and effective treatment of clinical mastitis is an important strategy to mitigate pain in lactating dairy cows. By identifying ineffective treatment protocols, and either modifying or replacing them with more effective protocols, improved dairy cattle welfare will be achieved.

Co-Funder List • •

Dairy Farmers of Ontario CanWest DHI

Team Member 1. Dr. Ann Godkin

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs UofG Adjunct Faculty

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2. Dr. Kerry Lissemore University of Guelph

UofG Faculty (On Campus)

3. Dr. Jason Coe

University of Guelph

UofG Faculty (On Campus)

4. Dr. David Leger

Laboratory for Foodborne Zoonoses, PHAC, DST

Non-UofG Advisory

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Research-to-Go Summary of current research funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs-University of Guelph Partnership

Project Title

Creation of an insect pest risk assessment tool for Ontario agriculture

Submission number

UofG2013-1731

Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Funding Program

Emergency Management insect risk assessment; ontario agriculture Jonathan Newman University of Guelph 02/06/2014 End Date

OMAFRA - U of G Research

01/06/2017

Abstract Invasive insect and mite pests cost the U.S. agriculture industry ~$14 billion/yr. In Canada, projected costs for five significant agricultural insect pests are $6.7 billion/yr. Although no estimates exist for Ontario, the province has more non-native species than any other province/territory, putting agricultural production at risk of serious losses due to damaging invasive insects. We propose to develop an insect pest risk assessment tool for Ontario that can be used to identify potential new invasive insects and to prioritize insect invaders for management. To do this, we will (1) identify life history traits linked to invasiveness in insects, (2) analyze pathways of insect invasion into Ontario and their associated probabilities, (3) determine concentrations of insect invaders in Ontario to identify hot-spots, and (4) develop a tool to estimate the potential for economic and environmental damage. Objectives 2–4 will also allow targeting of monitoring and other activities.

Objectives We propose to develop a species-specific rapid risk assessment tool for invasive agricultural insects in Ontario. The tool will take into account the ability of invaders to establish and become abundant, pathways of introduction and spread, and the potential for invaders to cause economic and environmental damage.

We will determine what insect traits are related to the potential for insects to invade and cause damage to the Ontario agriculture sector. We will also perform a combined analysis of pathways, invader concentrations, and economic distributions to identify regional risk levels. Our results will allow threat prioritization of high-risk potential and current invasive insects.

Benefits

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Our research results will benefit the Emergency Management theme by providing a tool with which to assess the invasion probability of economically damaging insects, including an analysis of invasion pathways.

This will benefit agricultural decision-makers by providing methods to identify potential new invaders and to prioritize management efforts on current and new high-risk invaders. In particular, it will benefit the Plant Health group by meeting their request for such an insect risk assessment tool. It will benefit import inspectors and field agents by focusing monitoring efforts in high-risk areas. Finally, it will benefit agricultural producers by reducing the probability of invasion by new highly damaging insect pests and focusing management on the most damaging invaders and the most susceptible regions.

Co-Funder List • •

NSERC CFI

Team Member 1. Dr. Heather Hager UoG

UofG Post Doc Fellow

2. Ms. Denise Beaton OMAFRA

OMAFRA Staff

3. Ms. Hannah Fraser Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs OMAFRA Staff

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Research-to-Go Summary of current research funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs-University of Guelph Partnership

Project Title

Threat Assessment for the Spotted Winged Drosophila (SWD) in Southern Ontario

Submission number

UofG2011-1217

Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Funding Program

Emergency Management Spotted winged drosophila, invasive species Jonathan Newman University of Guelph 02/07/2012 End Date

OMAFRA - U of G Research

30/06/2015

Abstract The spotted winged drosophila (SWD) is potentially a very serious invasive pest species for southern Ontario. The first year of SWD in California, Washington and Oregon resulted in a $2.6 billion loss to the fruit industry. We propose to develop a threat assessment for SWD, specific to this region. We intend to integrate three kinds of data in developing this assessment: (1) capture data from OMAFRA's network of monitoring traps as well as trap data from bordering US States; (2) expansion, refinement and adaptation of a forecasting model; and (3) generation of new data for use in the development and refinement of a phenology model that may be used alone, or in conjunction with the forecasting model.

Objectives We propose to conduct a threat assessment for SWD in southern Ontario. We will perform spatial and temporal analysis of monitoring data for southern Ontario and the surrounding US States. We will modify and refine a threat assessment model developed for the western United States and apply it to Ontario climates now and expected for the next 30 years. Finally we will develop a phenology model that can be used to assess and predict the number of generations per year that the SWD can complete in and when it establishes and how these predictions vary geographically.

Benefits The results of this research will benefit the Emergency Management theme by providing data on the potential spread and establishment of an economically important threat to Ontario’s fruit crop system.

Previous forecast models have mainly focused on the impact SWD will have in the United States, particularly

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on the west coast, therefore, research is needed which focuses on the eastern part of the continent with special interest paid to Ontario. Such research will then allow members of the agricultural community including farmers and industry alike to better manage their crop for SWD.

Co-Funder List • • • • •

Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association Niagara Peninsula Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association NSERC Ontario Berry Growers Association Webster Postdoctoral Fellowship

Team Member 1. Dr. Geraldine Ryan

University of Guelph UofG Post Doc Fellow

2. Ms. Denise Beaton

OMAFRA

Advisory

3. Ms. Lisa Emiljanowicz University of Guelph UofG Graduate Student 4. Mr. Aaron Langille

University of Guelph UofG Graduate Student

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Research-to-Go Summary of current research funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs-University of Guelph Partnership

Project Title

Fate and Transport of Emerging Contaminants after Manure Application

Submission number

UofG2012-1365

Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Funding Program

OMAFRA - U of G Research

Emergency Management,Production Systems Plants STEC, antibiotic resistance, anaerobic digestion Kari Dunfield University of Guelph 01/06/2013 End Date 30/04/2016

Abstract The prevalence of emerging pathogens such as non-O157 Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli in livestock manure is poorly understood. Further, the fate of these pathogens in soil and tile water after land application of manure is unknown so the threat of contamination of water used for irrigation purposes exists. This project will assess the prevalence and fate of 6 non-O157 serovars of E. coli in dairy manure, and will compare their environmental persistence from fresh or anaerobically digested manure that is land applied at 2 different field sites. The results of this study will identify the potential threat of several emerging pathogens to animal and human health and give insight into the role of the environment as a potential reservoir of infectivity. Knowledge gained can be used to institute best management practices for livestock manure management, as well as to improve emergency management plans by providing insight into the risks raised by emerging pathogens of interest. This project will add a microbial analysis of emerging pathogens to two ongoing studies examining the environmental impacts of manure application.

Objectives 1) Assess the prevalence of 6 non-O157 Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli serotypes (O26, O45, O103, O111, O121, O145) in fresh dairy cattle manure and in manure after anaerobic digestion.

2) Compare the prevalence of emerging pathogens (Obj. 1) to traditional human pathogens (i.e. E. coli, Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes) and fecal indicators. (Funded through matching California Centre for Produce Safety – no funds from OMAFRA requested).

3) Determine the persistence of the pathogens of interest in soil and tile water after land application of either fresh manure or digestate.

4) Compare the persistence and transport of pathogens (Obj 3) to transport of nutrients and greenhouse gas emissions in the same field plots receiving either fresh manure or digestate. (Funded through AGGP and Dairy Farmers of Canada - no fund from OMAFRA requested).

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5) Determine the prevalence of antibiotic resistance markers in raw manure, digestate, and soil/water samples after field application.

Benefits This project will assess the impact of anaerobically digesting livestock manure prior to land application on the prevalence of several pathogens, which addresses the Pathway Analysis Priority in the Emergency Management theme.

1) Conduct Pathway Analyses for priority diseases a) Identification of specific emerging pathogens of interest in dairy manure is important for determining the threat level to animal and human health. This project will specifically monitor emerging pathogens such as non-O157 Shiga toxin producing E. coli serotypes. The prevalence and importance of these pathogens in manure is currently unknown. Through matching funds provided by the California Centre for Produce Safety, persistence of traditional indicators and human pathogens in soils will be analysed. This project will build off this work, by assessing the fate of non-O157 serovars applied to agricultural land and their movement into surface waters.

2) Identify and Describe Significant Transport Pathways: Land application of fresh manure may both spread and perpetuate disease cycles. Determining the fate of pathogens in manure, with and without anaerobic digestion, and after land application is important for determining the environmental impact of manure management strategies. This project will directly compare land application of fresh manure versus anaerobically digested manure in terms of pathogen spread onto agricultural soils and tile water.

Identification of emerging pathogens and understanding their fate in the environment is important for developing emergency management plans. Currently most studies on pathogens in manure address broad groups, such as fecal indicators. This project will fill a knowledge gap addressing what specific serotypes are present, their prevalence, and their fate in the environment.

This project also addresses the following Research Priority: Detection and surveillance for antibiotic resistance and pesticide resistance Another major public health threat has been identified, due to the perception that the high use of antibiotics in agricultural production has led to an increase in multiple-drug resistant pathogens in the environment. The presence of antibiotic resistance markers will be examined in manure, anaerobically digested manure, and where appropriate, all soil and water samples.

Co-Funder List •

Centre for Produce Safety

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Team Member 1. Dr. Keith Warriner

University of Guelph UofG Faculty (On Campus)

2. Ms. Deanna Nemeth OMAFRA

Advisory

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Research-to-Go Summary of current research funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs-University of Guelph Partnership

Project Title

Microbiological Risks and Mitigation Strategies in the Application of Recycled Sand Bedding used in Dairy Operations

Submission number

UofG2013-1617

Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Funding Program

Emergency Management Dairy, sand, pathogens, mistitis, decontamination, Keith Warriner University of Guelph 01/09/2014 End Date

OMAFRA - U of G Research

31/08/2016

Abstract The Ontario dairy sector is critical to the economy of the Province with 4200 farms contributing to produce milk with a market value of $1.7bn each year. The industry is under constant pressure to increase productivity and decrease costs. One possible approach is to apply sand bedding for cattle which is acknowledged to increase milk yield by cows and enhance animal welfare. However, sand contributes significantly to waste management costs due to volume and requirement for ground injection. By recycling sand it is estimated that a small farm could save $7000 per year. However, by recycling sand it is possible to accumulate pathogens that could negatively affect herd health. The proposed project will assess the microbiology risk associated with recycled sand in dairy production and evaluate a selection of decontamination technologies to reduce pathogen carriage. The study will sample sand from three farms operating a sand bedding system. The samples will be screened for relevant pathogens and indicators along with the somatic cell count, in addition of milk yield of cows. Selection of intervention technologies will be based on efficacy and cost.

Objectives The overall aim of the project will be to assess the microbiological risks on herd health of recycling sand bedding in dairy operations and identify decontamination interventions to reduce pathogen carriage. The specific objectives are:1) Verify diagnostic methods to enumerate/detect pathogens and indicators.

2) Undertake sampling trials in three operations running standard sand bedding protocols and recycling system in parallel.

3) Validate sand decontamination methods based on UV, Advanced Oxidative Process, Steam and antimicrobial gasses.

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4) Verify performance of selected sand decontamination methods in barn operations.

5) Final reporting and recommendations.

Benefits The dairy industry within Ontario is valued at $1.7bn and consists of approximately 4200 producers. One of the major challenges facing the sector is how to increase milk yields and reduce operating costs. One approach to increase milk production yield and enhance animal welfare is the use of sand as a bedding material. Although it is well established that sand bedding has a positive effect on milk yields there are problems associated with waste management. Specifically, sand needs to be replaced frequently to minimize accumulation of manure and proliferation of anaerobes under the subsurface that can harbor virulent pathogens such as clostridia. The generation of large quantities of used sand leads to storage issues, in addition to final disposal that commonly involves ground injection. Therefore, the benefits of sand bedding can be lost due to downstream waste management. To address this issue a sand recycling system has been developed that can essentially separate manure from sand that can subsequently returned to the barn. The reduced sand usage is estimated to save small dairy operations over $7000 per year and more in larger production facilities. Yet, with sand recycling the risks associated with pathogen accumulation and dissemination within herds increases. The benefits of the research will be to establish the risks associated with pathogen accumulation in recycled sand and associated effects on herd health. Previous research undertaken by others have indicated an increase in mastitis in operations using recycled sand although the study was not performed in depth and used a different recycling system. Consequently, the evidence available would suggest that pathogen accumulation occurs in sand recycling systems although the extent to which this occurs remains unknown.

A further part of the study will develop and validate intervention methods to reduce pathogen carriage on the recycled sand. The benefit of the research is to provide mitigation strategies to reduce the risk of pathogen accumulation whilst retaining the economic benefits of using recycled sand as bedding material.

Co-Funder List • • •

NSERC Sandmiser Inc Hydroxyl Environmental

Team Member 1. Dr. David Kelton University of Guelph (internal) UofG Faculty (On Campus)

21

Research-to-Go Summary of current research funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs-University of Guelph Partnership

Project Title

Diseases threatening vegetable crops in Ontario

Submission number

UofG2012-1329

Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Funding Program

OMAFRA - U of G Research

Production Systems Plants,Emergency Management Fusarium, Stemphyllium, carrots, onions, spinach Mary Ruth McDonald University of Guelph 01/05/2013 End Date 30/04/2016

Abstract Two new plant pathogens or pathogen groups have become an issue for growers of vegetable crops in Ontario. Stemphyllium blight, caused by the fungus, Stemphyllium vesicarium, was first identified on onions in 2009 and has become the most serious foliar disease of onions since then. This fungus also attacks the spears of asparagus and has recently become a serious problem. Another new disease, Fusarium root rot, was recently identified on carrots in the Holland Marsh. A related disease, Fusarium wilt of spinach, has been present in Ontario for some time, and spinach is a good model crop for conducting research on root diseases. The proposed research includes surveys of carrot and onion fields in Ontario to determine how extensive these diseases are. More importantly, replicated field trials will be conducted to determine the most effective fungicides or biological controls for these diseases on onions, asparagus, carrots and spinach.

Carrot and spinach cultivars will be screened for resistance or tolerance. Trials will be conducted with onions and asparagus to determine the best time to start the spray program and if Stemphyllium from onion will infect asparagus, and vice versa. Results will be communicated to growers.

Objectives 1. To survey southern Ontario for the incidence and severity of Stemphyllium on onion and Fusarium on carrot.

2. To determine if Stemphyllium spores from asparagus can infect onion and if Stemphyllium spores from onion can infect asparagus. Also, to determine if Stemphyllium from either crop can infect common weed species.

3. To conduct replicated field trials to determine the most effective crop protection materials (fungicides, biological controls and biorational materials) to control or suppress Stemphyllium on onions and asparagus and Fusarium on carrots and spinach.

4. To determine the optimum spray timing for the control of Stemphyllium on asparagus and onions, based on monitoring the microclimate and (for onions) spore trapping.

22 For more information, please visit uoguelph.ca/ktt

5. To identify cultivars of carrot and spinach with resistance or tolerance to these diseases.

6. To determine the optimum methods for managing the crop residue in asparagus to prevent the overwintering of Stemphyllium in asparagus fields.

Benefits Information on the biology and control of Stemphyllium on onions and asparagus and Fusarium on carrots and spinach will improve quality, yield and sustainability of these crops. This project will provide information on what crop protection materials are most effective and provide data to support minor use registrations on these crops. Currently there are no registered products for the control of any of these diseases in Canada, and there is little to no information on the rates or timing of fungicide applications. Similarly, it would be very helpful to know if some cultivars are less susceptible to these diseases, so growers can choose the best cultivar for disease avoidance, or to use in combination with a fungicide.

Growers will be able to better plan crop rotation and weed management once information on the host range of Stemphyllium is known.

Growers, the vegetable industry and consumers will benefit from a reliable supply of high quality vegetables.

Co-Funder List • • •

Bradford Co-op Bradford Co-op Ontario Asparagus Growers Marketing Board

Team Member 1. Michael Tesfaendrias

University of Guelph

UofG Research Associate

2. Mr. Brian Collins

Collaborators

Graduate Student

3. Ms. Jennifer Foster

Collaborators

Graduate Student

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

Advisory

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

Collaborating Specialist

4.

Ms. Marion Paibomesai

5. Dr. Sean Westerveld

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Technician

6. Mr. Kevin Vander Kooi University of Guelph

24

Research-to-Go Summary of current research funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs-University of Guelph Partnership

Project Title

Assessment of the potential disease risks posed by wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) to domestic poultry flocks in Ontario

Submission number

UofG2013-1530

Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Funding Program

Emergency Management poultry, turkey, disease, transmission, risk Nicole Nemeth University of Guelph 01/01/2015 End Date

OMAFRA - U of G Research

31/12/2017

Abstract Free-ranging wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) have been increasing in number and expanding in geographic range since their reintroduction to Ontario in 1984. The interface between wild turkeys and commercial turkey flocks provides opportunities for pathogen spread, and information is needed on the potential disease risk posed by wild turkeys to Ontario’s domestic poultry. A retrospective analysis of wild turkey diseases in the Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Centre database will provide a long-term perspective of detected diseases. Additionally, priority pathogens, including those that cause disease outbreaks or decrease fitness in commercial turkeys will be targeted for testing in hunter-killed wild turkeys.

Knowledge of the prevalence and distribution of pathogens circulating among free-living wild turkeys combined with known transmission routes and pathogenesis will be used to assess the relative risk of pathogen transmission and subsequent disease among commercial turkey flocks, a valuable and growing component of the Ontario agricultural sector. Data generated from the proposed research will support emergency management preparedness and the formation of disease prevention strategies for Ontario poultry producers, as well as provide baseline disease surveillance records for Ontario wild turkeys.

Objectives The objectives are four-fold: 1) Determine the presence and prevalence of important poultry-associated infectious agents in free-ranging wild turkeys in Ontario both retrospectively, through the Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Centre database, and prospectively, via sampling of hunter-killed wild turkeys; 2) Determine the distribution of these pathogens and identify disease “hotspots� through mapping and spatial analysis of the distribution of diseased or pathogen-carrying wild turkeys relative to disease-free turkeys; 3) Assess the potential risk of disease transmission from wild turkeys to commercial turkeys using a qualitative risk assessment framework that includes data gathered during this study as well as existing

25 For more information, please visit uoguelph.ca/ktt

information from the scientific literature; 4) Provide baseline information about the health of wild turkeys in Ontario for future evaluation of disease emergence (e.g., expansion or increases in prevalence or distribution) as well as possible associations between disease prevalence and distribution relative to changes in land and water use and climate.

Benefits Farm-level disease control programs depend on the identification of potential sources of pathogen introduction, and the role of wild turkeys in disease maintenance and transmission to other birds is poorly understood. We will determine the potential risks posed by wild turkeys to domestic poultry flocks. Turkey producers and farmers, poultry veterinarians, wildlife biologists and managers, hunters, and the public will benefit from this information. The research will include a retrospective analysis of the Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Centre database to detect diseases in free-ranging, Ontario wild turkeys over the past 20 years. In addition, testing of hunter-killed turkeys will provide baseline surveillance data on the current prevalence and distribution of common and important pathogens in wild turkeys in Ontario. These data, together with knowledge of pathogenesis and transmission routes of these hazards, will allow us to identify and assess the risk of infectious disease spread from wild turkeys to commercial and other domestic (e.g., backyard) turkeys. In addition, the data will provide a basis for future assessments of changes in the prevalence or distribution of persistent or emerging diseases and alterations in pathogen virulence. Data collection will focus on bacterial, viral, and protozoan agents known to cause significant disease in commercial turkeys. These include lymphoproliferative disease virus, an emerging and widespread virus in wild turkeys in the United States, including the northeastern states along the U.S.-Canada border.

Salmonella and generic E. coli isolates from wild turkeys will be tested for antimicrobial-resistance so that if detected, circulation of such isolates will be recognized. Ultimately, the information gained from this research can be applied to management and mitigation strategies within the turkey industry, including disease awareness, preparedness, and prevention (e.g., husbandry and vaccination, treatments and isolation procedures). These strategies will be applicable to backyard flocks and commercial turkey operations at the local, provincial, and national levels. It will arm turkey producers and managers with the information they need to form appropriate prevention strategies and will also provide them with pre-emptive knowledge of the potential health hazards, and therefore facilitate earlier and focused responses in the case of disease outbreaks in domestic turkeys.

Co-Funder List • • • •

Laboratory of Foodborne Zoonoses - Public Health Agency of Canada Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Centre Claire Jardine (CFI and ORF Funds) Nicole Nemeth (University start-up funds)

26

Team Member 1. Dr. Eva Nagy

University of Guelph

UofG Faculty (On Campus)

2. MARINA BRASH

University of Guelph

UofG Adjunct Faculty

3. Dr. Shayan Sharif University of Guelph

UofG Faculty (On Campus)

4. Dr. Jeff Bowman Collaborators

Non-UofG Faculty/Research Scientist

5. Dr. David Pearl

University of Guelph

UofG Faculty (On Campus)

6. Mr. Albert Dam

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

OMAF and MRA Staff

University of Guelph

UofG Faculty (On Campus)

7.

Dr. Michele Guerin

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Research-to-Go Summary of current research funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs-University of Guelph Partnership

Project Title

Prevalence of Enteric Disease Agents in Ontario Commercial Rabbits: Zoonotic Potential and Impact on Animal Health

Submission number

UofG2011-1205

Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Funding Program

OMAFRA - U of G Research

Production Systems Animals,Emergency Management rabbit, enteric disease, prevalence, risk Patricia V. Turner University of Guelph 01/05/2012 End Date 30/04/2015

Abstract The Ontario commercial rabbit industry produces an important alternative source of meat, and Ontario farms represent 32% of Canadian operations. Production losses from birth to weaning range up to 36%, largely from infectious enteric and respiratory diseases, and >60% of operations concurrently raise other food animal species, often in the same barns. There are few biosecurity practices in place within the industry and disease control efforts are made more challenging by industry practices including lairage prior to slaughter, transportation of live animals between provinces and to the U.S. for slaughter, and frequent sharing/sale of breeding stock. Further, off-label antimicrobial use for growth promotion and disease control is common. Preliminary industry disease surveys have identified pathogenic bacteria that may be infectious to humans and other agricultural species. In addition, newly emerging potentially zoonotic viruses have been identified in U.S. commercial rabbitries. This project will evaluate prevalence of common and emerging enteric disease agents (bacterial, parasitic, and viral), antimicrobial resistance, and potential risk to humans and other agricultural species. Our goals are to identity potential human and animal risks, improve production practices and human safety, and improve overall animal well-being.

Objectives a) to survey the Ontario commercial rabbit industry for prevalence of viral, bacterial, and parasitic enteric disease agents from clinically healthy and affected rabbits. We will examine two age groups at two different times of the year; b) to survey the Ontario commercial rabbit industry by questionnaire regarding on-farm euthanasia and deadstock disposal practices, antimicrobial use, and other livestock handling and management practices;

28 For more information, please visit uoguelph.ca/ktt

c) to characterize isolated pathogenic bacteria and evaluate for anti-microbial resistance and cross-species infection potential; d) to develop and validate specific rabbit hepatitis E and astrovirus PCR assays for rapid, high throughput screening of rabbit tissue/fecal samples; e) to characterize and compare the fecal microbiome from rabbits to evaluate changes in microbial shedding and resistance patterns; and f) to disseminate information to producers to enhance herd productivity, animal health and well-being, and human health and safety

Benefits The beneficiaries of this project will be commercial rabbit producers, processors, retailers, feed suppliers, and consumers. Rabbit meat production has been steadily growing in Ontario but is still significantly short of current domestic demand, largely because of infectious disease with resultant loss of animals from birth to market. Consumers purchase rabbit meat as a white meat ‘alternative’; however, off-label and uncontrolled antimicrobial and coccidiostat use are widespread for growth promotion and disease control, and residue testing is minimal. As part of this project, we will be surveying producers for information about antimicrobial use. We will also be evaluating how the rabbit gastrointestinal microbiome changes with antimicrobial use.

Understanding disease prevalence and methods of transmission will enable producers to alter practices to eliminate disease, significantly increasing production efficiency. This will also help to eliminate infections in other co-housed livestock species, which may be susceptible to the same organisms. Evaluation of antimicrobial sensitivity and resistance is expected to provide a more reasoned approach to the use of feed additives, providing greater consumer confidence in this product.

We have had initial discussions with producers at OMAFRA-organized seminars regarding decision-making for euthanizing cull rabbits on-farm. This remains a contentious topic within the industry. Producers do not wish to prolong animal suffering intentionally; however, there are few readily available approved methods that can be used by producers. Based on clinical and gross post mortem evaluations of live submissions to the Animal Health Laboratory, many producers need to develop earlier endpoints for removing sick animals from their herds. A secondary objective for the on-farm visits and survey detailed in this proposal is to heighten producer awareness about this issue. We hope to develop practical decision-trees and training protocols for humanely killing cull rabbits to enhance overall animal well-being.

Finally, there is interest by CFIA and National Farm Animal Care Council in developing a national code of practice for the Canadian commercial rabbit industry. Development has been hampered by a lack of organization, interest and awareness of issues facing the industry. We believe that this project will help to define industry standards for production practices.

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Co-Funder List • • • • • • • • •

Public Health Agency of Canada Dr. Patrick Boerlin Dr. Scott Weese Dr. Patricia Turner Ontario Rabbit (Ontario Livestock Alliance) Floradale Feeds, Inc B&W Feed & Seed, Ltd Animal Health Laboratory OVC Dean's Office

Team Member Dr. Jutta Hammermueller

University of Guelph

Technician

2. Dr. Scott Weese

University of Guelph

University Researcher

3. Mr. Brian Tapscott

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

Collaborating Researcher

4. Dr. Marina Brash

Collaborators

UofG Faculty (On Campus)

5. Dr. Richard Reid-Smith

Laboratory for Foodborne Zoonoses, PHAC, DST

Collaborating Specialist

6. Mrs. Jennifer Haley

Ontario Goat

Industry Collaborator

7. Dr. Patrick Boerlin

University of Guelph

University Researcher

8. Dr. Scott McEwen

University of Guelph

University Researcher

1.

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Research-to-Go Summary of current research funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs-University of Guelph Partnership

Project Title

Prevalence and strain identification of Coxiella burnetii on dairy goat farms and in associated wildlife

Submission number

UofG2012-1381

Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Funding Program

Emergency Management Q fever wildlife Coxiella burnetii Paula Menzies University of Guelph 09/05/2013 End Date

OMAFRA - U of G Research

30/04/2015

Abstract Based on recent AHSI - OMAFRA research, infection due to Coxiella burnetii appears to be common in dairy goats (33 of 42 farms studied) and in the people that care for them (68.7% of people sampled). To control Q fever in humans, it is important to understand the epidemiology of the infection in non-livestock species that reside on and near the livestock premises and thus the risk that may be posed to the farm. Through selection of previously test positive farms (n=10), we will determine the prevalence and strain types of C burnetii infection in wildlife species (e.g. rodents, raccoons, rabbits) trapped on these farms and in nearby non-agricultural areas. The prevalence and strains will be compared to those found in the goats, and nonlivestock domestic species (e.g. cats, dogs) living on the affected farms. This will be done by PCR of fecal samples and / or vaginal swabs in the periparturient period and subsequent genotyping. This information will help to identify possible reservoirs of C burnetii. Subsequent research regarding methods to eradicate infection from infected farms will use this information in developing strategies to be evaluated.

Objectives 1. To determine the prevalence of C. burnetii in wildlife species trapped on dairy goat farms and in nearby non-agricultural areas.

2. To determine strains and strain differences of C. burnetii in livestock species, non-livestock domestic species, and wildlife species on dairy goat farms and non-agricultural areas.

Benefits C. burnetii is an important zoonotic pathogen and, based on recent finding by researchers at the University of Guelph appears to be a common infection in Ontario small ruminant farms and in the people that care for

31 For more information, please visit uoguelph.ca/ktt

them. The risk to humans is well-known but effective control measures are less well described. Currently there is no licensed vaccine in Canada for use in humans or livestock. A European goat and cattle vaccine (Coxevac, CEVA Animal Health) can be imported but it is expensive. Eradication of infection from livestock has been proposed but has rarely been attempted. While it may be advisable to attempt to eradicate the infection from sheep and goat farms, without a good understanding of the epidemiology of the infection in associated wildlife and non-livestock domestic species on infected farms, control measures may not be effective. This project will identify levels of infection in other animals residing on or near infected farms, and compare infected to uninfected farms. It will also identify the strains involved to determine if these species may play a role in the infection status of the farm. Depending on findings from this study, control measures for C burnetii infection may also be warranted in these non-livestock wild and / or domestic species.

Co-Funder List • • •

Centre for Goat Research and Innovation Laurentian University University of Guelph

Team Member 1. Dr. Albrecht Schulte-Hostedde Laurentian University University Researcher 2. Dr. Andria Jones-Bitton

University of Guelph University Researcher

3. Claire Jardine

University of Guelph University Researcher

4. Dr. Nadia Mykytczuk

Laurentian University University Researcher

32

Research-to-Go Summary of current research funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs-University of Guelph Partnership

Project Title

The design and analysis of experiments and observational studies on infectious disease spread in the livestock industries.

Submission number

UofG2011-1010

Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Funding Program

OMAFRA - U of G Research

Emergency Management,Production Systems Animals infectious disease modelling; Bayesian statistics Rob Deardon University of Guelph 01/09/2012 End Date 31/08/2015

Abstract To control agricultural infectious diseases, it is vital to understand how they spread through populations and what factors lead to infection. Statistical models, preferably derived from high-quality observed data, such as the individual-level models (ILMs) of Deardon et al (2010), can aid greatly in such understanding. These ILMs can be spatial, contact network-based, and/or include numerous risk factors/covariates besides. They can also facilitate the design of experiments/observational studies for identifying key characteristics of disease systems.

The two overriding objectives of this project are concerned with: 1) Study Design – we plan to use ILM-based simulation studies to determine how best to design populationlevel and herd-level studies in which the aim is to understand underlying infection dynamics of disease systems; 2) Model Development – we plan to extend ILMs to enable the farm-level modelling of systems in which: a) there are multiple diseases/strains that can interact with each other; b) the time-varying infectiousness of individual farms is a key characteristic of the disease system in question, and can also depend upon individual-level covariates such as the number of animals on the farm; c) there is only partial information, and thus uncertainty, about underlying contact network structure.

Objectives

33 For more information, please visit uoguelph.ca/ktt

1. Develop an understanding about how best to design within-herd studies to extract maximum information about within-herd disease dynamics. (Theme 2) 2. Develop an understanding about how best to design population-level studies to extract maximum information about between farm/barn disease dynamics. (Theme 2) 3. Develop multivariate infectious disease models to enable the analysis of multiple diseases/multiple-strain disease at the farm level. (Theme 1) 4. Assess how uncertainty about potentially covariate-dependent time-varying infectiousness of individual farms can be best incorporated into analysis of epidemic data. (Theme 1) 5. Assess how uncertainty/partial information about underlying contact networks can be best incorporated into analysis of epidemic data. (Theme 1)

Benefits Successfully implemented, the objectives of this project would make the analysis of infectious disease data, and subsequent development of control strategies for a wide range of epidemic and endemic, animal, crop and human diseases, much easier and faster to do than is currently the case. The model development described would also mean that we could have greater confidence in resulting models of disease-spread than would currently be the case. This would be vital in an emergency outbreak (e.g. foot-and-mouth disease), wherein an epidemic, of perhaps an emergent disease, has just begun and the best control methods are not obvious. In such a situation (with quality, informative data), it would be possible to fit ILMs to data from the epidemic as it has so far proceeded, and simulate from the resulting model to study the effect of various control methods (e.g. vaccination programs). Similarly, in a disease-endemic situation (e.g. porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) in the Ontario swine industry) such models can be used to understand disease dynamics and, thus, help to improve control, and risk-based surveillance systems, of both known, and emergent, strains of the disease. Such models and techniques could also help with understanding the dynamics, and thus control, of pest infestations (e.g. emerald ash borer in Ontario) and crop diseases (e.g. citrus canker). Also, simulation studies to develop control methods can incorporate cost-benefit analyses.

The obvious benefit to the agri-food industries would be an increased ability to control and detect diseases and pests, and thus an increase in yield and economic efficiency. For example, the Royal Society reported that the foot-and-mouth outbreak of 2001 cost ÂŁ3.1 billion to the UK agricultural and the food sectors.

Obvious public health benefits would also accrue in the case of zoonoses (e.g. swine or avian influenza).

Additionally, successful disease control, facilitated by data-driven modelling, would help to minimize public fears that can lead to sales-loss in an outbreak situation.

34

Finally, this project would result in the training of three PhD students in areas including infectious disease epidemiology, mathematical and statistical modelling, Bayesian inference, and computational statistics.

Co-Funder List • • • • •

NSERC NSERC Canadian Swine Health Board Canadian Swine Health Board Poultry Industry Council

Team Member 1. Dr. Michele Guerin

University of Guelph

University Researcher

2. Dr. Pui Sze Kwong

University of Guelph

Post Doctorate Fellow

3. Dr. Zvonimir Poljak

University of Guelph

University Researcher

4. Dr. Bruce McNab

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Advisory

5. Mr. Rajat Malik

University of Guelph

UofG Graduate Student UofG Graduate Student

6. Ms. Lin Zhang University of Guelph

UofG Graduate Student

8. Mr. Razvan Romenscu University of Guelph

UofG Graduate Student

9. Ms. Carolyn Augusta University of Guelph

UofG Graduate Student

7. Ms. Nadia Bifolchi

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Research-to-Go Summary of current research funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs-University of Guelph Partnership

Project Title

Complex mathematical and statistical modelling of between-farm disease transmission in the Ontario swine industry.

Submission number

UofG2013-1471

Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Funding Program

OMAFRA - U of G Research

Emergency Management,Production Systems Animals swine; infectious diseases; agent-based modelling Rob Deardon University of Guelph 01/07/2014 End Date 30/06/2017

Abstract Farm-level disease transmission models, preferably based on high-quality data, can aid greatly in understanding how diseases spread. They can also facilitate the design of disease control/surveillance strategies for controlling/monitoring disease.

Highly complex models can be constructed that mimic many different possible mechanisms of disease transmission and population dynamics (e.g. spatial-, trade-, animal movement- and/or supplier-based networks). However, data we collect from such systems are usually incomplete; e.g. infection times and/or animal movement data may contain measurement error and/or be only partially observed. Approximate Bayesian computation (ABC) techniques can be used to fit such complex models to only partially observed data, without the substantial computational burden of a full data-augmented Bayesian approach.

Here we propose to develop realistic, complex regional-level animal-movement-based disease transmission models for Ontario swine, testing the plausibility of control and surveillance methods for diseases such as PRRS, PED and influenza. Simultaneously, we will use simulation studies to implement, develop and test ABC methods for fitting disease transmission models to data that might be collected in practice. Finally, the complex Ontario swine models above will be fitted to observed data (e.g. from Niagara region PRRS projects) using ABC methods, and then, risk-based surveillance & control strategies developed.

Objectives O1) Develop complex agent-based meta-population models (AMBs) of Ontario swine industry and disease propagation through such systems (Theme 2).

36 For more information, please visit uoguelph.ca/ktt

O2) Test regional-level control/surveillance strategies for diseases such as PRRS and influenza in Ontario swine. (Theme 2).

O3) Develop and implement sequential approximate Bayesian computational (S-ABC) methods that can be used to fit complex individual-level/agent-based models (ILM/ABM) to observed disease data. (Theme 1).

O4) Validate S-ABC approach via spatial/network ILM-based simulation studies (Theme 1).

O5) Apply S-ABC/ABM approaches to real data to gain insights into how to control PRRS (and other diseases such as PED, pending data availability) in Ontario swine industry. (Themes 1 & 2).

O6) Apply S-ABC/ABM approaches to real data to gain insights into how to carry out risk-based surveillance for PRRS (and other diseases such as PED, pending data availability) in Ontario swine industry. (Themes 1 & 2).

Benefits Traditional methods of fitting infectious disease models to data (e.g. data-augmented MCMC) are often impracticably slow and cumbersome to implement in the typical situation where data is only partially observed (e.g. due to reporting delays, under-reporting, unobserved infection times/networks, etc). The implementation of this theme's objectives would enable such analyses, and subsequent development of disease control and surveillance strategies, to be much more easily and speedily carried out than is currently the case. Further, the use of robust statistical methods for data-fitting/-testing these complex models would facilitate far greater confidence in determining what conclusions can be reasonably drawn from them than typically possible currently.

This would be vital in an emergency outbreak (e.g. FMD or PED), wherein an epidemic, of perhaps an emergent disease, has just begun and the best control methods are not obvious. In such a situation, it would be possible to fit disease models to data on an epidemic as it has so far proceeded, and simulate from the resulting model to study the effect of various control methods (e.g. vaccination programs). Such models and techniques could also help with understanding the dynamics, and thus control, of pest infestations (e.g. emerald ash borer in Ontario) and crop diseases (e.g. citrus canker). Also, simulation studies to develop control methods can incorporate cost-benefit analyses. Further, simulation from models can be used to develop effective risk-based surveillance systems.

The obvious benefits to the agri-food industries would be an increased ability to control and monitor diseases and pests, and thus an increase in yield and economic efficiency. For example, the Royal Society reported that the foot-and-mouth outbreak of 2001 cost ÂŁ3.1 billion to the UK agricultural and the food sectors. Obvious public health benefits would also accrue in the case of zoonoses (e.g. swine or avian influenza). Additionally, successful disease control, facilitated by data-driven modelling, would help to minimize public fears that can lead to sales-loss in an outbreak situation.

37

Finally, this project would result in the training of a PhD student in areas including infectious disease epidemiology, mathematical and statistical modelling, (approximate) Bayesian and computational statistics, and the swine industry.

Co-Funder List • • •

Swine Innovation Porc NSERC NSERC - TBR

Team Member 1. Dr. Zvonimir Poljak University of Guelph UofG Faculty (On Campus) 2. Dr. Jane Carpenter Collaborators

Non-UofG Advisory

3. Dr. Pui Sze Kwong University of Guelph UofG Post Doc Fellow

38

Research-to-Go Summary of current research funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs-University of Guelph Partnership

Project Title Submission number Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Characterizing Streptococcus suis from clinical cases and healthy-carrier pigs UofG2013-1497

Funding Program

OMAFRA - U of G Research

Production Systems Animals,Emergency Management S.suis,swine,serotype,virulence factors, antimicrobial resistance Robert Friendship University of Guelph 16/06/2014 End Date 28/04/2017

Abstract Losses due to diseases caused by Streptococcus suis are economically significant, and yet S. suis is commonly present on tonsils and in the respiratory tract of healthy pigs with no clinical effects. The serotypes and strains of S. suis vary in their ability to cause disease, and virulence factors (VFs) of S. suis are poorly understood. Likewise, outbreaks of S. suis disease tend to be triggered by complex environmental, management, and host factors which are not well understood.

The objectives of this study are: to investigate the distribution of S. suis serotypes, virulence factors, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiles from clinical cases and healthy-carrier pigs; to determine the ability of a new multiplex PCR to identify S. suis serotypes; to investigate risk factors and treatment measures used on Ontario farms.

Nasal and tonsil swabs from healthy pigs and samples from clinical cases on 50 Ontario farms will be cultured for S. suis. Isolates from clinical cases across Ontario will also be included in the study. The isolates will be serotyped and tested for VFs and AMR. Furthermore, a survey will be conducted to examine on-farm risk factors, treatment-control strategies, and economic impact of S. suis infections on the study farms.

Objectives The overall objective is to investigate characteristics of Streptococcus suis isolated from clinical and healthycarrier pigs, as well as investigate risk factors associated with disease outbreaks and control measures commonly employed.

The specific objectives: 1)To determine the differences between S. suis isolates from clinical cases and isolates from healthy pigs

39 For more information, please visit uoguelph.ca/ktt

including antimicrobial resistance patterns, virulence factors and serotypes (to improve our therapeutic approach and how we select strains for autogenous vaccines) 2)To investigate the agreement between coagglutination method and multiplex PCR for serotyping S. suis (to improve our diagnostic abilities in investigating outbreaks of disease) 3)To determine management and environmental conditions associated with outbreaks of streptococcal disease and to document the common approaches used to control an outbreak including therapeutics and management changes (in order find better methods of preventing and controlling S. suis diseases and reducing antibiotic use)

Benefits Pork producers, veterinarians and the general public stand to benefit from the increased knowledge gained from this research regarding the prevalence of various strains and serotypes of Streptococcus suis isolated from healthy pigs and clinical cases. One priority that this research addresses is to “develop alternative methods that effectively and economically reduce the risk of infectious disease”. We will attempt to identify virulence factors and other characteristics to allow better differentiation of S. suis into pathogenic and nonpathogenic strains. Hopefully this will improve diagnostics and ensure more appropriate isolates are included in the creation of autogenous vaccines. Identifying antimicrobial resistance patterns will help producers and veterinarians make wise choices regarding treatment.

A second priority is to “investigate housing environments and management practices that meet health and welfare needs” and this project will attempt to identify the environmental or management indicators as well as the host factors that are associated with S. suis disease outbreaks”. This information should help veterinarians in developing preventive strategies that do not necessarily rely on antibiotics. Preventing disease through environmental and housing changes and host immunity can potentially result in major economic savings for the producer through reduced mortality and improved growth performance.

Other priorities that are met by this study include “worker safety” in that S. suis is a potential zoonotic pathogen, and “maximize profits” because streptococcal diseases are a major cause of pig mortality on many farms. One other benefit of this study is the development of a new, efficient and less expensive method for serotyping S. suis isolates in pigs and this should benefit diagnostic labs as well as those companies producing vaccines.

In summary the benefits resulting from this work include a better understanding of S. suis infection, including diagnostic techniques and strategies to control this economically important swine pathogen and potential human pathogen.

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Co-Funder List • • •

Swine Innovation Porc Ontario Pork Mitacs- Accelerate

Team Member 1. Prof. Janet MacInnes University of Guelph UofG Faculty (On Campus) 2. Dr. Abdolvahab Farzan University of Guelph UofG Research Associate 3. Dr. Durda Slavic

University of Guelph UofG Other

4. Dr. Jackie Gallant

University of Guelph Non-UofG Collaborator

5. Mr. Glenn Soltes

University of Guelph UofG Technician

6. Dr. Shivani Ojha

University of Guelph UofG Post Doc Fellow

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Research-to-Go Summary of current research funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs-University of Guelph Partnership

Project Title

Novel immunological compounds as an emergency response tool for control of avian influenza virus

Submission number

UofG2011-1177

Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Funding Program

Emergency Management Avian influenza, control, immune enhancement Shayan Sharif University of Guelph 02/07/2012 End Date

OMAFRA - U of G Research

03/07/2015

Abstract Control of avian influenza viruses (AIV) is of critical importance to maintenance of poultry and human health. However, there is a shortage of reliable and efficacious methods for containing AIV in chickens and disrupting its transmission from infected flocks to non-infected flocks or to humans. Although AIV vaccines are available, these vaccines have limited utility in an emergency (outbreak) situation. Moreover, after vaccination, it is difficult to differentiate vaccinated from infected birds (DIVA). Here, we will examine several microbial structural components , which induce potent anti-viral activities, to determine their efficacy to control AIV in chickens and disrupt its transmission to humans. Unlike vaccines, these novel compounds can elicit immunity within 24-48 hours of administration, hence they can be used as an emergency response tool to contain an AIV outbreak. Moreover, treatment with these compounds does not interfere with DIVA. Finally, these compounds can be produced in a cost-effective manner.

Objectives The overall objective of this study is to develop formulations of microbial products (namely PAMPs) that could be used as an emergency response tool for control of AIV during outbreaks. These products are known to induce innate anti-viral responses within a very short timeframe upon administration. Importantly, they can be produced in a cost-effective manner.

The specific aims of the study are to: 1- screen several PAMPs to identify the compounds that can control the in vitro replication of AIV, 2- investigate the effects of PAMPs against AIV infection in chickens, 3optimize the dose and route of administration of PAMPs for enhanced efficacy against AIV replication and shedding, 4- assess the efficacy of PAMPs to control AIV in various emergency scenarios.

42 For more information, please visit uoguelph.ca/ktt

Benefits Avian influenza viruses (AIV) pose a significant threat to poultry and human health in Ontario, Canada and across the world. Unfortunately, we have witnessed AIV outbreaks in Canada over the last decade, which called into question our emergency readiness. Therefore, the development of more effective control strategies against these viruses is urgently needed. Vaccination may be one such strategy but vaccines have certain shortcomings as an emergency response tool. Here, we propose to develop strategies that overcome the caveats of vaccination and can effectively control AIV and its transmission in the course of an outbreak in a cost-effective manner.

Co-Funder List • • • •

CPRC and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada NSERC Poultry Industry Council NSERC

Team Member 1. Dr. Eva Nagy

University of Guelph

University Researcher

2.

Collaborators

Collaborating Researcher

3. Mr. Michael St. Paul University of Guelph

Graduate Student

4. Dr. Douglas Hodgins University of Guelph

Post Doctorate Fellow

5. Dr. Jennifer Brisbin University of Guelph

Post Doctorate Fellow

6. Dr. Neda Barjesteh University of Guelph

Graduate Student

7. Dr. Csaba Varga

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Collaborating Specialist Industry Collaborator

8. Dr. Cynthia Philippe OMAFRA

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Research-to-Go Summary of current research funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs-University of Guelph Partnership

Project Title

Development of PCR method for the rapid detection of Cylindrocladium buxicola; a new invasive species of boxwood in North America

Submission number

UofG2012-1244

Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Funding Program

Emergency Management box blight, detection, pcr, disease Tom Hsiang University of Guelph 01/06/2012 End Date

OMAFRA - U of G Research

31/05/2015

Abstract Boxwood (Buxus species) is one of the most popular broadleaf, evergreen ornamental shrubs grown in the nursery industry. OMAFRA specialists estimate boxwood acreage at 40 – 60 hectares (ha) of field and container production in Ontario, worth approximately 8-10 million dollars annually. Boxwood blight, caused by the fungal pathogen Cylindrocladium buxicola, is a destructive disease of boxwoods. The first introduction of this pathogen to North America was reported in North Carolina in October 2011. Since then, the disease has been reported from nurseries, garden centers and residential landscapes in up to seven states of the US. In early January 2012, Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) confirmed the introduction of this disease in two nurseries in British Columbia. Luckily, early identification enabled the eradication of these diseased plants and prevented their subsequent spread to other locations. Therefore, despite this report, C. buxicola is still not known to be established in Canada, although disease pressure from the US is high. So far, there are no rapid methods available for the reliable detection of this pathogen. Therefore, the goal of this project is to develop and validate a rapid, sensitive and reliable method for the detection of this pathogen from plant tissues.

Objectives 1. To develop a PCR-based assay for the detection of C. buxicola.

2. To validate this method for specificity and sensitivity for the detection of C. buxicola in pure cultures and diseased boxwood samples.

3. To assist with incorporation of this assay into the Clean Plant Certification Module being developed by the Canadian Nursery and Landscape Association (CNLA).

44 For more information, please visit uoguelph.ca/ktt

Benefits This project will contribute to emergency management research priorities for the nursery and landscape industries of Ontario and other provinces. A new PCR method will be developed, validated and used for the detection and eradication of boxwood blight. The Pest Diagnostic Clinic of the University of Guelph will be able to provide rapid detection service to support the clean plant certification module led by the industry.

The method can be used for survey efforts of such agencies as the Canadian Food and Inspection Agency, etc.

Co-Funder List •

Landscape Ontario

Team Member 1. Dr. Shannon Shan University of Guelph University Researcher 2. Dr. Tom Hsiang

University of Guelph UofG Faculty (On Campus)

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Research-to-Go Summary of current research funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs-University of Guelph Partnership

Project Title

Development of risk-based and consequence-based approaches to surveillance in swine populations using PRRS virus as a model

Submission number

UofG2011-1031

Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Funding Program

OMAFRA - U of G Research

Emergency Management,Production Systems Animals Surveillance, PRRSV, disease-control, scenario-trees Zvonimir Poljak University of Guelph 03/09/2012 End Date 04/09/2015

Abstract Regional approach to control and elimination of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) has recently grown in North America with respect to number of regions included, and their geographical distribution. One of the most critical issues in these projects is how to perform surveillance in the control zones. A targeted approach has a good potential to increase efficiency of surveillance, but no clear, scientifically-sound recommendations on how to do that are currently available. Our goal is to estimate "surveillance system sensitivity" and other measures of accuracy of alternative approaches to surveillance under two conditions: (1)after completion of elimination, 2)during regional control and elimination. Data for this project will be coming from the Niagara PRRSV project, and will be ultimately analyzed using stochastic scenario trees, and mathematical models. Although addressing endemic disease, the approach and expertise will be developed that could be used for substantiation of disease freedom, when resources need to be optimized; and after possible incursion of exotic diseases, when surveillance resources must be prioritized.

Objectives 1. To summarize epidemiological, biosecurity and diagnostic data from ongoing PRRS ARC&E projects in Ontario with specific purpose of informing design of targeted surveillance activities for PRRSV infection. By extension this information could also be used for design of surveillance for pathogens with similar transmission characteristics as PRRSV (ie. transmission through direct contacts via animal movement, indirect through mechanical vectors, fomites and vehicles, aerosol, and semen).

2. To estimate surveillance sensitivity, and other important parameters, of different approaches towards substantiation of freedom from PRRSV infection AFTER the elimination has been completed in PRRS ARC&E.

46 For more information, please visit uoguelph.ca/ktt

3. To estimate surveillance sensitivity, and other important parameters, of different approaches for ongoing surveillance of PRRSV infection in PRRS ARC&E project DURING the process of elimination.

Benefits Ontario livestock populations have been free from foreign animal diseases for extended periods of time.

Consequently, the most practical approach to build capacity in emergency management is through developing expertise that could be used equivalently in control of endemic diseases and after incursion of an exotic disease. In both scenarios, the rationale is that for efficiency we need to focus on premises with the highest risk. This will be of help to government and industry. Developing risk-based approaches using PRRSV as a model has obvious benefits because of the strong involvement of producers and veterinarians, data availability, and clear needs.

Co-Funder List • •

Ontario Swine Health Advisory Board (OSHAB) NSERC

Team Member 1. Dr. Jane Carpenter

Collaborators

Industry Collaborator

2. Dr. Rob Deardon

University of Guelph

Collaborating Researcher

3. Dr. Pui Sze Kwong

University of Guelph

Post Doctorate Fellow

4. Dr. Robert Friendship University of Guelph

University Researcher

5. Dr. Janet Alsop

Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Advisory

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Project Title

Efficacy and cost-effectiveness of control strategies for newly emerging forms of swine dysentery

Submission number

UofG2012-1292

Theme(s) Key words Lead Applicant Organization Start Date

Funding Program

OMAFRA - U of G Research

Emergency Management swine dysentery, economics, modelling, brachyspira Zvonimir Poljak University of Guelph 02/09/2013 End Date 28/08/2015

Abstract The primary objective of the proposed research is to develop and parametrize a mathematical disease spread and control model for swine dysentery. Another objective is to develop economic model for different interventions and link the epidemiological and economic model. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis will be performed to identify factors that are most contributing to clinical efficacy and economic efficiency. This will be achieved by analyzing the field weekly mortality data from outbreaks in herds affected by this emerging pathogen. Then mathematical model of spread under baseline and common control conditions will be developed, and simulations will be performed. Data will then be analyzed for probabilistic sensitivity analysis for mortality and production parameters. Following this, an economic model will be developed. Inputs for the economic model will be sought from closeout production data before and after an outbreak, by eliciting expert opinion in a formal way, and by providing summary measures from meta-analysis. An economic model will be based on linear programing as the first step, and by developing framework for the Multiple Criteria Decision Making approach. A mathematical model of Brachyspira spread and economic model will be coupled during this process to reflect the dynamic nature of disease spread.

Objectives Our objectives could be divided into two general themes. The first theme consists of specific objectives as they relate to this emerging disease. Our specific objectives are to: 1) build and parametrize mathematical model of Brachyspira hyodysenteriae spread in a herd of growing pigs in the absence of any intervention, and additionally when common intervention strategies are applied.

2) perform probabilistic sensitivity analysis to determine which factors contribute most to mortality, and to overall production losses.

3) couple the mathematical model of disease spread with the economic model and determine which factors involved in disease ecology itself, or in the way that disease control measures are implemented would mostly contribute to the benefit-cost measures.

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A more general objective is to establish mechanisms by which cost-efficiency of within-herd control measures should be studied for infectious diseases of swine. This will be achieved by collaboration within the University and internationally.

Benefits Ontario pork producers and swine veterinarians will benefit by better understanding how the disease is spread, and what is the most efficient way to control the disease, should SD emerge in Ontario. Swine veterinarians will gain additional knowledge on SD epidemiology and control measures through a dynamic model of SD spread in common production settings. Input from practitioners will be sought to gather recent outbreak field data such as mortality/morbidity trends in affected batches as well as production performances as closes-outs. We also aim to provide feedback to veterinarians in western Canadian provinces. This will serve two purposes. First, we will evaluate scenarios beyond what available data will offer to us and will seek for external validation from practitioners that are dealing with this disease on a more regular basis than Ontario veterinarians. Second, we plan to provide useful input to these practitioners and their clients. Our second target group is the research community itself. By identifying the major contributors to selected outputs (eg. mortality) we will identify where effort should be placed in future field or experimental research that investigates disease control. Finally, there will be benefit in advancing our approaches to study cost of disease and cost-efficiency of control options within herds under management procedures commonly practiced in Ontario herds.

Co-Funder List • •

Canadian Swine Health Board NSERC

Team Member 1. Dr. Alfons Weersink University of Guelph University Researcher 2. Dr. Robert Friendship University of Guelph University Researcher 3. Dr. Egan Brockhoff

Collaborators

Non-UofG Collaborator

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