A new report is sounding the alarm on the growing number of pest and disease challenges threatening U.S. agriculture, calling for stronger federal investment in research, monitoring, and rapid-response systems. The analysis, released by Farm Journal Foundation, outlines the “Mean Sixteen” — a list of major biosecurity threats impacting crops, livestock, aquaculture, and overall food security.
For the swine industry, the report highlights two major concerns: Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS), which continues to cost producers hundreds of millions annually, and African Swine Fever (ASF), a looming global threat capable of devastating the U.S. herd if it ever crosses the border.
Billions in Losses — and Growing Pressure on Food Systems
The report stresses that pest and disease outbreaks are costing the agricultural economy billions of dollars every year. These disruptions ultimately reach consumers through higher food costs and supply chain instability. Experts involved in the analysis warn that the U.S. is underinvesting in agricultural research at a time when threats are becoming more complex, more mobile, and harder to control.
While the “Mean Sixteen” list spans every major sector — from citrus greening to avian influenza — the impacts on livestock and pork production remain especially concerning.
Key Swine-Related Threats Highlighted
Looming Threat: African Swine Fever (ASF)
The report identifies ASF as one of the major global threats capable of inflicting catastrophic damage. While not currently present in the U.S., the virus continues to spread internationally. Its ability to move rapidly through pig populations makes prevention and border protection essential priorities. An introduction into North America would immediately halt U.S. pork exports and upend domestic production.
Current Threat: PRRS
PRRS remains one of the most costly diseases affecting American pork producers. Despite decades of research, PRRS continues to challenge both breeding and growing operations. The report notes that existing vaccines offer limited immunity and that more research is needed to develop effective prevention and control strategies. PRRS also interacts with other pathogens, increasing overall mortality and production losses.
Why Increased Research Investment Matters
The report argues that many of the pests and diseases included on the list still lack effective treatments or fully reliable vaccines. Pathogens evolve quickly, outpacing available tools. For swine producers, this means:
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Continued financial pressure from PRRS-related losses
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Potential vaccine gaps during new strain emergence
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Vulnerability to foreign animal diseases like ASF
Agricultural R&D, according to the report, delivers a 20-to-1 return on investment, yet public research funding has declined over the past two decades. International research support has also been reduced, limiting collaboration on global threats that could eventually affect U.S. farms.
Coordinated Response Models Show Promise
The report highlights successful examples of coordinated, science-based monitoring networks — such as those used to track soybean rust — as models that can be adapted across sectors, including livestock. For diseases like PRRS and potential threats like ASF, early detection and rapid response remain the most powerful tools available.
A Call to Strengthen U.S. Biosecurity
The report concludes with a clear message: biosecurity challenges are accelerating, and the U.S. must invest in stronger systems to protect producers, consumers, and the agricultural economy. For the pork industry, this includes:
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Continued pressure for ASF prevention and surveillance
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Expanded federal support for PRRS research
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Reinforced emergency response planning
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Greater public–private partnerships
The “Mean Sixteen” underscores that threats are increasing in number and complexity — and that maintaining the strength of American agriculture will require sustained focus, science-driven innovation, and coordinated leadership.
