Source: Feedstuffs
The University of Florida has received a $9.5 million estate gift to support research aimed at protecting cattle and other livestock from disease-carrying pests. The donation establishes the Carrie W. Earls Mosquito and Pest Eradication in Beef Cattle Fund, benefiting researchers at the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) and College of Veterinary Medicine. The funding will support efforts to develop improved strategies for controlling mosquitoes, biting flies, and other pests that threaten livestock health and cause economic losses for producers.
Research will focus on disease prevention, treatment, education, and livestock management, particularly in pest-prone regions such as Florida. University officials say the gift comes at an important time as concerns grow about emerging threats, including the resurgence of New World screwworm. Funded by the estate of Irene and Walter Earls, longtime supporters of education and livestock health, the investment is expected to strengthen livestock welfare, support cattle producers, and enhance food security for years to come.