No case has ever been found in Canada, but the disease has had a major impact in countries like Asia, Europe and the Carribean.

African Swine Fever is a fatal swine disease.

Earlier this week, Ottawa announced applications are now open for Agriculture Canada's African Swine Fever prevention and preparedness program. 

Funding for the new program will support projects such as biosecurity assessments and improvements, wild pig management, the retrofit of existing abattoirs, sector analysis and ASF-related research.

Rick Bergmann, Chair of the Canadian Pork Council says he's pleased to see Ottawa stepping up to help protect the industry.

"The outcome which is most important out of all of this, is that we're able to ensure that we've got a very, very strong position in regards to prevention in our country. Also looking at aspects of if we do get it, ... how do we deal with it and so on. But a lot of focus on prevention."

Bergmann says with 70 per cent of our production destined for export, a single case (ASF) would result in the immediate closure of the border and our export markets.

The government notes that applications from academic institutions, associations, businesses, Indigenous groups, and provincial/territorial/municipal governments will be accepted until November 30, 2023, with the funding being distributed over two years. 

Program information and details on how to apply can be found on AAFC’s website: Agricultural programs and services.

You can hear Glenda-Lee's conversation on this topic with the Chair of the Canadian Pork Council, Rick Bergmann, by clicking the link below.