Stepping into Biosecurity: FFA Member Takes on Livestock Health
What started as a passion for animals has grown into an opportunity to make a difference in the livestock industry for Texas FFA member Avery Mabry.
As a Brock FFA member who shows swine locally, Mabry understands the importance of keeping animals healthy. She turned that experience into a National FFA Agriscience Fair project focused on biosecurity and reducing bacterial contamination.
“I show pigs, and biosecurity is a huge aspect of showing livestock so we can prevent our animals from disease, contamination risk and a whole lot of other things,” Mabry says.
For her project, Mabry tested three foot bath treatments to determine which was most effective at reducing bacterial contamination on footwear after working in a swine barn.
Her research found that well water produced no reduction in bacterial growth, while a 50% vinegar solution reduced growth by 37.5%. Tek-Trol disinfectant proved most effective, reducing bacterial growth by 65.8%
Beyond protecting her own animals, Mabry hopes her findings will help other livestock exhibitors reduce the risk of spreading contamination between barns and livestock shows.
The project also helped Mabry develop valuable research and leadership skills.
“I’ve learned how to conduct an experiment, research, work with other people…and reach out to others,” Mabry says.
Brock FFA advisor, Kayla Horton, says she has seen Mabry develop a deeper understanding of the scientific process while combining research with her passion for showing pigs.
For Mabry’s family, the research is creating a meaningful impact.
“Showing livestock is the first thing, but it’s not just going into the show ring,” says Casey Mabry, Avery’s father. “Now she’s starting to develop and do things that could possibly flourish into a career.”
Mabry shared her findings on the Student Showcase Stage at the 99th National FFA Convention & Expo, encouraging other members to explore their agricultural interests through research.
“If they don’t know what to do or where they’re going with their project, just reach out and someone will help you,” she says.
