About - Cooperative Extension: Livestock - University of Maine Cooperative Extension

Maine has a thriving livestock industry, with over 7,000 commercial farms, including over 1,750 identified as livestock farms, according to the 2022 USDA Census of Agriculture. Many of these farms are small-holder and diverse livestock raisers who often require customized information to fit their specific needs, unlike what is provided to larger industries. Both new and experienced farmers value healthy animals, which in turn improves welfare, production, and profit.

Animal health education was the number one need reported by livestock producers and owners in a recent state-wide survey. With challenges such as a national large animal veterinary shortage, more frequent disease outbreaks, and negative health effects stemming from climate change, farmers seek out information from a variety of sources, often turning to social media and internet searches.

The Animal Health Hub offers updated, scientifically-backed information from local animal health experts. Broad health topics, as well as species-specific information can be found through various resources, including a new virtual farm tour.

Why It Matters?

Investing in livestock health supports sustainable agriculture, enhances public health, and contributes to global food systems and economies. Prioritizing livestock health benefits not just animals but also humans and ecosystems at large.

Below are some benefits from strengthening animal health management:

Healthy livestock are a reliable source of food, providing meat, milk, eggs, and other animal products essential for human nutrition. Livestock health ensures stable and quality production, reducing the risk of shortages and malnutrition.

Livestock farming is a primary or secondary income source for over 1000 farmers in Maine. Farmers and livestock owners who understand animal health can reduce veterinary costs and losses due to diseases. Additionally, quality animals and animal products can contribute to a farmer’s positive reputation, enhancing business.

Many diseases, such as rabies, avian influenza, and brucellosis, can spread from animals to humans (zoonoses). Knowledge of animal health helps mitigate these risks through proper handling, vaccination, and disease prevention strategies. Maintaining livestock health prevents outbreaks that can harm both human populations and other animals.

Certain measures that address disease prevention, such as proper manure and carcass disposal, also can have environmental benefits.

Maintaining a healthy herd or flock ensures that animals are free from pain, suffering, and distress, aligning with ethical and humane treatment principles.

Many smallholder farmers rely on livestock as a source for sustenance and economic resilience. Healthy animals provide supplemental income, transportation and draft power, and agricultural inputs, like manure, for crops.

Diseases in livestock lead to weight loss, reduced fertility, and lower milk or egg production, significantly affecting output. Preventing illness can reduce livestock mortality and improve overall productivity.

Healthy livestock are better equipped to adapt to changing climatic conditions, ensuring consistent productivity in harsh environments. Reducing stressors like disease improves their capacity to withstand challenges posed by climate change.

Farmers with a strong foundation in animal health education are more likely to value and utilize veterinary services, strengthening the animal healthcare system.

Farm Biosecurity Planning and Disease Surveillance

As part of the USDA NADPRP grant, participants who attend select workshops and webinars may be eligible to participate in on-farm biosecurity mapping and planning, as well as free disease/ parasite testing to achieve their herd health goals.

Anyone may attend the workshops, but project participants gain additional benefits:

Livestock and Poultry Disease Testing through the UMaine Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL) (in collaboration with your veterinarian).
Farm Biosecurity Plan Development with DACF Animal Health staff support.
Farm Biosecurity Supplies for basic prevention of disease spread.

If you don’t have a veterinarian, DACF will help you find one.

Participation is Voluntary and Confidential.

Sign up for Email Notifications
Register and Attend a Workshop or Online Training
- Workshops are available in in-person and virtual formats, as well as recordings.
Complete the Enrollment Form
Schedule a Farm Visit with DACF Animal Health Staff to discuss your situation and work on your Farm Biosecurity Plan together.
Qualify for Disease Testing (with veterinarian collaboration) and biosecurity supplies.
Complete a Final Survey.

On-Farm Composting of Animal Mortalities – August 16, 2025, 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. in Winterport, Maine
Beef Cattle Health Webinar with Dr. Kelsey Hilton – September 18, 2025, 6:00 p.m.-7:15 p.m., Online.

For questions or more information:

Rachel White

Sustainable Agriculture and Livestock Educator,
University of Maine Cooperative Extension
rachel@maine.edu
207.667.8212

Grant Information

This effort is supported in part by funding through the National Animal Disease Preparedness Response Program (NADPRP) for the 2024-2026 project “Reaching All Farm-Raised Animals: Assessment, Outreach, and Education on Farm Biosecurity and Disease Outbreak Preparedness in Maine for Small and Diverse Livestock Farms.” This initiative is in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) Animal Health Program.

Contact the Animal Health Hub experts

Tap into trusted resources, science-backed information, and real-world guidance for keeping your animals healthy.

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The University of Maine System is an equal opportunity institution committed to nondiscrimination.