ERAIL 2024: A program of continuing success. Part 1: National and international ERAIL program training
Print
EmailIn 2024, the MSU Extension ERAIL program expanded its reach beyond Michigan to increase awareness of handling livestock accidents.
As the Emergency Response to Accidents Involving Livestock program continues to expand, our team members can share its profound impacts with broader audiences, nationally and internationally. This growth not only underscores the program's success but also highlights the increasing need for its services in animal agriculture.
One of our team members was honored to present a session at the Encuentro Latinoamericano de Bienestar Animal (Latin American Meeting on Animal Welfare) in Santiago, Chile. The session, titled “ERAIL - Preparing for Livestock Transport Accidents: The Michigan Example,” was attended by veterinarians, producers, pharmaceutical companies, processors, animal scientists and agronomists across Latin America. This international exposure not only showcases the success of our program but also strengthens our global connections. In total, 30 people attended the session, a testament to the growing interest in our work.
Additionally, a webinar opportunity was offered to the Mexican Association of Veterinarians, which specializes in food safety and quality. This webinar was attended by 100 veterinarians working with livestock across Mexico.
The ERAIL program's significant contributions were recognized when it was awarded the National Association of County Agricultural Agents “Search for Excellence Award for Livestock Production.” This prestigious award, given in a national competition, validates our efforts and serves as a testament to the program's effectiveness. The recognition at the national conference, where 75 agricultural agents from across the country learned about the ERAIL program, further solidified our position as a leader in the field.
Lastly, a session proposal highlighting the ERAIL program was submitted and chosen as a breakout session at the Extension Disaster Education Network annual conference held in Salt Lake City, UT. A total of 25 Extension Educators from around the country learned about the program and its impact on Michigan.
