African Swine Fever Looms as Mass. Blue Ribbon Calf Sale Approaches

Farmers prepare for potential disease outbreak as annual livestock event nears

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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As African swine fever (ASF) inches closer to the U.S., farmers in the Northeast are bracing for the potential impact of the disease. Meanwhile, the annual Mass. Blue Ribbon Calf Sale, a highly anticipated event for Junior dairy breed association members, is just around the corner.

Why it matters

The spread of ASF could have devastating consequences for the pork industry, leading to trade restrictions and economic losses for farmers. At the same time, the Blue Ribbon Calf Sale is a crucial event for young dairy enthusiasts to showcase their skills and build connections within the industry.

The details

Experts warn that ASF, which has already devastated herds in Asia and Europe, could soon reach the U.S. shores. Farmers are taking precautions to protect their livestock, while also preparing for the annual Mass. Blue Ribbon Calf Sale, a prestigious event that attracts Junior members from the seven major dairy breeds associations.

  • African swine fever (ASF) is inching closer to the U.S.
  • The Mass. Blue Ribbon Calf Sale is coming up soon.

The players

Maddy Poitras

An active Junior member in the seven major dairy breeds associations.

Alex Harrell

A farmer from southwest Georgia who was a highlight speaker at the 2026 North Carolina Commodities Conference.

Kerry Hollier

The owner of Teasel Meadow Farms in Red Creek, NY, who has been raising freezer pork and feeder pigs for the past 10 years.

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What they’re saying

“Every year the event I most look forward to, which starts th...”

— Maddy Poitras, Active Junior member in the seven major dairy breeds associations (Country Folks New England)

“Over 650 people attended the 2026 North Carolina Commodities Conference. One of the highlight speakers was Alex Harrell, farmer from southwest Georgia...”

— Alex Harrell, Farmer (Country Folks Mid-Atlantic)

“For Kerry Hollier, owner of Teasel Meadow Farms in Red Creek, NY, raising pigs is in his blood. For the past 10 years, he's raised freezer pork and fe...”

— Kerry Hollier, Owner, Teasel Meadow Farms (Country Folks West)

What’s next

Farmers will continue to monitor the spread of African swine fever and take necessary precautions to protect their livestock. The Mass. Blue Ribbon Calf Sale will proceed as planned, providing a valuable opportunity for young dairy enthusiasts to showcase their skills and connect with others in the industry.

The takeaway

The looming threat of African swine fever and the upcoming Mass. Blue Ribbon Calf Sale highlight the challenges and opportunities facing the agricultural community in the Northeast. Farmers must remain vigilant in their efforts to safeguard their herds, while also nurturing the next generation of dairy industry leaders.