By Scout Nelson
Molly Jones, a veterinary student at North Carolina State University, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Morrison Swine Innovator Prize. The award recognizes veterinary students who demonstrate innovation and leadership in advancing swine health and production.
The honor was presented during the Allen D. Leman Swine Conference, hosted by the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine in St. Paul, Minnesota. Students interested in swine health and production competed by presenting research projects to industry professionals.
Jones received the award for her project, “What's in Your Water? Visualizing Water Medication Delivery.” Her research examined how accurately medications delivered through barn watering systems reach pigs and whether animals receive the intended dosage.
To conduct the study, Jones used blue dye as a substitute for medication and collected water samples from individual drinkers throughout a barn. She then compared the samples to a digital color chart she developed to estimate the dye-to-water ratios being delivered at different locations.
The study revealed considerable variation in medication delivery. While medicators are commonly set to a 1:128 ratio, actual ratios ranged from 1:96 to 1:507, suggesting pigs could receive between 40% and 135% of the intended dose.
University of Minnesota researchers highlighted the project's practical value for commercial swine operations. The findings could help producers better understand and evaluate the effectiveness of water-based medication systems.
As part of the award, Jones received a $5,000 cash prize, along with complimentary conference registration and travel support. Her work demonstrates the potential for innovative, farm-focused research to improve animal health management.
The Morrison Swine Innovator Prize honors the legacy of Bob Morrison, DVM, PhD, MBA, and is supported through the Morrison Legacy Fund. The award continues to encourage future veterinary leaders to develop practical solutions for the swine industry.
Photo Credit: istock-srdjan-stepic
Categories: Minnesota, Livestock