Features Editor

Foot and Mouth disease in Europe and South America is constantly in the news and there is fear the disease may get into the United States.

"The public is confused about Foot and Mouth disease and Mad Cow disease and they sometimes lump them together," said David Carpenter, county extension agent for Pike County. "Farmers are concerned and want to know more about these diseases and what is being done to prevent their spread into the United States." Carpenter said Dr. Tony Frazier, state veterinarian, has asked that Pike County host a meeting so these diseases can be discussed.

"Dr. Mike Grant, USDA, has slides of infected cattle in Europe and they will explain these diseases in detail and talk about measures to prevent their spread to the United States and to Alabama," Carpenter said.

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System and the Pike County Cattlemen’s Association will host a Foot and Mouth disease and Mad Cow meeting at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 8 at Cattleman Park, three miles south of Troy on Highway 231.

Carpenter said the meeting will last about two hours..

Derek Bryan, Crenshaw county extension agent, will discuss hosting an area Beef Quality Assurance certification course. Michelle Field, Alabama beef cattle improvement specialist, will discuss the "New BCIA."

Those wishing to participate in the meeting are asked to call the Pike County Extension office at 566-0985 by Friday, Aug. 3.