The State of Oklahoma’s Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry issued an administrative rule to combat the spread of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus (PEDv) within the swine industry. In response to growing concerns about the transmission of this devastating virus, the state has implemented an administrative rule prohibiting swine shows and premium sales with live swine after March 1st each year for the spring livestock show season (excluding the Oklahoma Youth Expo), beginning in the year 2025. This will allow for a down period between other shows and the Oklahoma Youth Expo.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

• Will this help stop the spread of PEDv?

We are taking as many steps as we think are necessary to try to prevent the spread of PEDv. This step may not solve our issue, but we are doing what we can to help in prevention.

• When will this take effect? 

This administrative rule would take effect in 2025. 

• Why won’t there be a no-show period prior to Tulsa State Fair or other shows?

Shows in the fall are coming out of the warmer time of the year, and we have not seen a spread of PEDv at these shows like we have at the Oklahoma Youth Expo.

• Can we have our premium sale after March 1?

You are welcome to have your premium sale after March 1, as long as no live swine are present at the premium sale.

• Why do Texas shows have no regulations?

Texas does not have the commercial pork operations that we do in Oklahoma. We as a state are doing what we think is best for the swine industry as a whole.

This administrative rule has been advised to be implemented to address the specific challenges presented by PEDv and to protect the well-being of Oklahoma’s swine industry. Together, Oklahoma’s Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry along with industry partners, believe this is critical to the success and safety of all show swine and commercial swine operations across the state. The decision was made after careful consideration of the data and information available, with the primary goal of preventing the further spread of this disease within the state. Read the full administrative rule here.

The Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry will be working closely with pork producers, exhibitors, and industry stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition to these new regulations. The health and safety of Oklahoma’s swine population are of utmost importance, and this rule reflects our commitment to safeguarding our state’s valuable livestock industry.

For more information and specific guidance on how this ruling will affect swine shows and premium sales, please contact Oklahoma State Veterinarian, Dr. Rod Hall at 405.522.0270 or rod.hall@ag.ok.gov.