The Saskatchewan Pork Development Board has received a $260,000 investment from the Federal Government to help control two diseases that are threatening beef and swine herds in Canada.

The research will target a recently discovered bacteria (Brachyspira hampsonii), that causes diarrhea and colitis in pigs, and scientists will also gain a better understanding of another disease called B-C-G, that can significantly reduce pregnancy rates among breeding cattle.

The two studies will be conducted at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon, and will include diagnostics, surveillance and trials involving live animals.