The National Pork Board (NPB) has announced that Dr. Dustin Oedekoven will be stepping into the position of Chief Veterinarian. He will lead a team of veterinarians and swine production experts in Pork Checkoff-funded work.  Oedekoven says that a big part of his focus will be on Foreign Animal Disease preparedness.

Oedekoven said the pork industry has been focused on prevention of foreign animal diseases, including African Swine Fever, and getting producers prepared in the event of an outbreak.

He also says he’s also excited to lead new management programs being offered in the swine industry.

Dr. Oedekoven spent the last 13 years as State Veterinarian and Executive Secretary of the South Dakota Animal Industry Board.