South Carolina monkey farm faces uncertainty from funding cuts

In South Carolina, a monkey farm is facing challenges as the Trump administration moves to cut federal funding for research. This funding has been crucial for the primate breeding and research industry, which has been under pressure due to increased demand for monkeys in labs. The number of primates used in U.S. labs has grown significantly in the past decade. Monkeys are essential for testing drug safety and studying human diseases because they are closely related to humans. South Carolina has long been a key player in this industry, breeding monkeys for various research purposes. However, upcoming budget cuts threaten to disrupt this ecosystem, raising concerns over the fate of thousands of monkeys and the facilities that house them. Seven national primate centers, which breed and care for many of these animals, are lobbying to secure funding. Some researchers fear mass euthanasia of monkeys could occur if this funding is withdrawn. Dr. Paul Locke from Johns Hopkins expressed concerns about the animals' well-being if support for their care ends. The demand for research monkeys has resulted in steep price increases, with monkeys costing around $24,000 each. Meanwhile, ethical questions about the treatment of primates in research are emerging. For instance, the Veterans Administration plans to end its use of monkeys for research by next year, reflecting a shift towards more humane testing methods. In South Carolina, the government has invested heavily in companies like Alpha Genesis, which operates a large monkey farm. This company has faced scrutiny due to a recent escape of monkeys that resulted in safety warnings for locals, highlighting regulatory challenges within the industry. Despite the scrutiny, the farm's CEO, Greg Westergaard, is prepared to take in monkeys if funding cuts threaten their welfare. He estimates having around 10,000 monkeys in his care. Alpha Genesis is a significant employer in the area, raising concerns about the economic impact that funding cuts may have on the local community. Critics of animal research, including some lawmakers, are calling for changes in how these animals are used in testing, arguing that it is time to rethink the reliance on monkeys in scientific research. While there is ongoing debate over the ethical implications, proponents argue that primate research remains vital for medical advancements in emergencies. As funding changes loom, the future of monkey research in the U.S. remains uncertain, with questions about animal welfare, regulatory oversight, and the overall direction of biomedical research.