The agriculture animal industry plays a crucial role in the success and growth of the nation's economy, accounting for 42% of forecast US agricultural receipts in 2009, says the USDA.

"The agriculture animal industry faces increasing challenges from animal diseases, reduced fertility, low nutrition and growth and non-tariff trade barriers," said Roger Beachy, NIFA Director. "These grants will help the US maintain a strong, internationally-competitive animal agriculture industry and lead to safer and more affordable animal products."

NIFA awarded these grants through 4 program areas of the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI): Animal Reproduction Program; Animal Genome, Genetics, and Breeding Program; Animal Growth and Nutrient Utilization Program; and Integrated Solutions for Animal Agriculture Program.

For further info and to view the 2009 fiscal year grant recipients, click here.