By Blake Jackson
The Wisconsin Pork Association, in partnership with UW-Madison Extension and the National Pork Board, will host a one-day Certified Swine Sample Collector (CSSC) Training on July 7, 2026.
The in-person event will take place at the UW-Platteville Pioneer Farm, located at 29200 College Farm Road in Platteville, Wisconsin.
Designed for swine producers and industry professionals, the training will provide participants with the knowledge and skills needed to become certified swine sample collectors. The program will be led by Dr. Brent Pepin, Director of Swine Health for the National Pork Board.
The CSSC initiative was established through cooperation among the pork industry, universities, and state and federal animal health agencies.
Its primary goal is to strengthen preparedness for potential Foreign Animal Disease (FAD) outbreaks, including African Swine Fever (ASF), Classical Swine Fever (CSF), and Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD).
In the event of a disease outbreak affecting U.S. swine herds, there would be a significant need for trained personnel capable of collecting diagnostic samples.
The CSSC program helps address this need by preparing non-veterinary industry professionals to assist with sample collection when requested by State Animal Health Officials.
Training is conducted under the guidance of certified, licensed, and Category II accredited veterinarians experienced in proper sampling procedures.
The day’s schedule begins with registration at 8:00 a.m., followed by classroom instruction from 8:30 a.m. to noon.
Lunch will be provided by the Wisconsin Pork Association from noon to 1:00 p.m. The afternoon session, running from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., will focus on hands-on swine handling and sample collection techniques.
Those interested in attending can contact Jeff Morris by email at jeff.morris@wisc.edu, call or text 608-346-9561, or visit the Wisconsin Pork Association website for registration details.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: Wisconsin, Livestock, Hogs