Vision Statement

ARS is recognized worldwide as a leader in animal health research that delivers effective solutions to prevent and control animal diseases that impact agriculture and public health.

Mission Statement

The mission of the program is to conduct innovative cutting-edge research, which delivers effective and practical solutions to agricultural problems of high national priority.

Process for Establishing this NP Plan

An independent retrospective peer assessment of National Program (NP) 103 past performances was conducted in October 2004. A national electronic survey was also conducted in 2005 to obtain input on past performance and future research priorities.  The reports (hyperlink) were presented at a Stakeholder workshop on September 19-20, 2005 in Kansas City MO.  Research priorities developed with stakeholder input for the next cycle (hyperlink) served as the basis for an Action Plan for research that is relevant to the needs of U.S. agriculture.

Program Components

1.      Bio-defense research

2.      Genetic and biological determinants of disease susceptibility

3.      Prevent and control zoonotic diseases

4.       Prevent and control respiratory diseases

5.      Prevent and control reproductive and neonatal diseases

6.      Prevent and control enteric diseases

7.      Prevent and control parasitic diseases

8.      Prevent and control transmissible spongiform encephalopathies