The National Research Council proposes to convene an expert committee to study the broad scope of issues related to the veterinary workforce in the United States. The study will explore historical changes in the size and characteristics of the veterinary workforce; assess the demographics and adequacy of the current supply of veterinarians in different occupational categories and sectors of the economy; and identify incentives, disincentives, and other factors that are likely to affect the numbers of veterinarians seeking jobs in different sectors in the future. The study will also examine trends affecting the kinds of jobs available to veterinarians and assess future demand for veterinary expertise in existing and new employment sectors. The study will examine the current and future capacity of universities and colleges to provide sufficient numbers of adequately trained veterinarians and identify training needs relative to the demand for specific expertise. A report will present the findings of the study, and identify options for meeting requirements for a veterinary workforce. The project is sponsored by the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges, the American Veterinary Medical Association, American Animal Hospital Association, Bayer Animal Health, and the Burroughs Wellcome Fund. The approximate start date for the project is September 16, 2006. A report is expected to be released at the end of the project in approximately 18 months.Update 6-18-09: The project duration has been extended and the report will be issued in fall 2009.Update 11-16-09: The project duration has been extended. The report is expected to be issued in April 2010.Update 6-8-10: The project duration has been extended. The report is expected to be issued in July 2010.Update 8-27-10: The project duration has been extended. The report is expected to be issued in October 2010.Update 12-1-10: The project duration has been extended. The report is expected to be issued in early 2011.Update 6-9-11: The project duration has been extended. The report is expected to be issued in early autumn 2011.Update 12-29-11: The project duraction has been extended. The report is expected to be issued in early 2012.