The Agricultural Research Service March 10 posted a new issue of Healthy Animals at: http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/np/ha/han21.htm.

This quarterly online newsletter compiles ARS news and expert resources on the health and well-being of agricultural animals and fish.

Each quarter, one article in Healthy Animals focuses on a particular element of ARS animal research. The current issue looks at how scientists at the National Animal Disease Center's Bacterial Diseases of Livestock Research Unit in Ames, Iowa, are working towards treatments for several important cattle diseases.

Other research highlighted in this issue includes:

--A recently commercialized electrostatic system reduces airborne dust and microorganisms in poultry houses and hatcheries.

--ARS scientists create a genetic map of the chicken.

--Does too much protein for lactating cows contribute to nitrogen pollution and decreased milk yield?

--A new ARS research center is focusing on meeting the needs of forage-based enterprises in the Mid-South.

--A correlation is found between eggshell quality and Salmonella infection in chickens.

Professionals interested in animal health issues may want to bookmark the site as a resource for locating animal health experts. An index lists ARS research locations covering approximately 70 animal health topics. These range from specific diseases, such as Lyme disease, to broad subjects like nutrition or parasites. The site also provides complete contact information for the more than 25 ARS research groups that conduct studies aimed at protecting and improving farm animal health.

To receive an e-mail alert about each future issue's posting online, contact Jim Core, ARS Information Staff at 301-504-1619, jcore@ars.usda.gov, or sign up online at: http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/np/ha/subscribe.htm.

ARS is the U.S. Department of Agriculture's chief scientific research agency.

Date: 3/24/05