News
Introduction of new State Aquaculture Vet
MEMORANDUM
TO: Hawaii Aquaculture Community
FROM: John S. Corbin, Manager, Aquaculture Development Program
DATE: June 22, 2005
SUBJECT: Introduction of New State Aquaculture Veterinarian
I am very pleased to be introducing Dr. Allen C. Riggs, DVM, MS as the new State Aquaculture Veterinarian attached to the Aquaculture Development Program. Dr. Riggs was hired on June 15, 2005. He is attending a Shrimp Pathology Short Course at the University of Arizona from June 18 to July 2, 2005 and will be back on the job July 5, 2005. He can be reached through the AFRC number 832-5004.
Staff Acknowledgement
Before I briefly describe Dr. Riggs background, I want to acknowledge the dedication of the Disease Management Program staff to fill the gap in recent years, when we didn't have a vet or had a part-time vet. As we all know, the industry has not stood still and issues related to export of live product have been difficult, but thanks to the hard work of ADP staff: Dee Montgomery-Brock (funded by CTSA), Ron Shimojo, Lei Yamasaki and more recently RuthEllen Klinger-Bowen, a very high level of disease management capability has been maintained.
Dr. Riggs' Background
Dr. Riggs is well qualified for the aquaculture vet position. He has a BS from Mississippi State University in Animal Science and a DVM from the same school. He also got a MS from Texas A&M University in Aquatic Animal Medicine and took courses in aquaculture at the University of Rhode Island. He has directed his career towards the aquatic aspects of disease and was in private practice in aquatic animal medicine, when he accepted the Hawaii job.
Dr. Riggs brings to this job a wealth of scientific, practical and private sector experience. He was heavily involved in providing extension services through the University of Florida to Florida's diverse marine and freshwater aquaculture industry from 1999 to 2003. While performing these duties he conducted research on koi, carp, and sturgeon. He has taught courses in water chemistry, histological interpretation, and general fish and shellfish health and preventive medicine. Further, he has made numerous presentations on all aspects of aquatic disease and disease management to groups nationally and in Florida.
Prior to joining the University of Florida, Dr. Riggs was a Veterinary Consultant and Aquarist at the Key West Aquarium in Florida from 1995 to 1999. In this position, he acquired knowledge of diseases of marine tropical species. Prior to that he has in private practice in the Miami area. Dr. Riggs is an avid scuba diver and holds a Master Scuba Diver Trainer rating.
From his experience in Florida, Dr. Riggs understands the challenges Hawaii farmers must overcome to have a successful business. He also understands the nature of the relationship between a veterinarian and his client, with respect to safeguarding information. In the weeks and months ahead please welcome him to your farm and share your disease management concerns. ADP will be taking this opportunity to do a complete review of the Disease Management Program and determine how best to meet the challenges of the future. We welcome your input. Aloha.
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