‘I Protect Pigs’ Photo Contest Promotes U.S. Herd Biosecurity

This month, photography and pigs are a winning combination when it comes to preventing African swine fever (ASF).

USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS) is holding an “I Protect Pigs” photo contest to promote the importance of good biosecurity behaviors with the ultimate goal of continued prevention of ASF in the U.S.

According to the APHIS website, although ASF has never been detected here in the U.S., international travel and trade, not to mention the disease’s easy transmission, means there is still a risk for the nation’s herds.

For that reason, pig farmers should be actively practicing and enforcing prevention steps. 

That’s where the photo contest comes in. 

“I Protect Pigs” contest participants can submit up to two photos showcasing the biosecurity best practices they use on their farm.

Those best practices could be limiting on-farm traffic, wearing clean clothes and shoes around pigs, washing on-farm equipment and vehicles, preventing contact with feral pigs, and storing feed out of the reach of wildlife.   

The official contest rules highlight what contest judges will be looking for in the photos, along with other key instructions. Photos can be submitted until midnight (ET) Friday, Feb. 14.

Five winners will be selected and announced on March 3, following National Pig Day on March 1. Winners will be featured on APHIS’ site and social media channels. 

You can enter and find out more about the contest at the “I Protect Pigs” contest website.