There are two main domestic diseases we are most concerned about. Swine can carry brucellosis and could shed this to cattle. If a cow gets infected with swine brucella, it cannot pass it to other cows but when slaughtered, the blood will test positive for brucella, and can trigger a total herd test to determine herd status. It is recommended that humans wear rubber gloves when handling swine body parts or body fluids to protect against this debilitating disease. This disease is generally spread nasally, through aerosol, but feral swine tend to transmit it venereally among themselves.
Feral swine are hardy animals and are able to adapt and survive in most any kind of environment.
Due to this fact, those of you faced with the decision of whether they are an asset or a problem will have some tough choices to make. Some landowners in this state and other states thought feral pigs were an opportunity to have another source of income through hunting. In addition to receiving agriculture specific safety training, continuing education credit for pesticide re-certification has been requested from the Oregon Department of Agriculture for these sessions. Additionally, small agriculture employers attending the seminar will meet their annual four-hour instruction on agricultural safety rules and procedures required by HB 3019. The free seminar is primarily designed for owners, operators, supervisors and foreman but would also be beneficial to anyone working in agriculture.