Posted: January 19, 2022
The purpose of this news article is to provide a reminder of basic proper biosecurity protocols. One never knows who is watching. Some decisions we make may seem minor to us at the time, but could be potentially devastating for a farm or several farm operations and their livelihood.
If a disease outbreak occurs, do you want to be the first person on the list questioned for the outbreak? Or do you want the operator to state that it was probably not the inspectors as they followed basic biosecurity protocols. Biosecurity protocols for Conservation District personnel include:
- Must follow the agricultural biosecurity measures prescribed for the site. If the biosecurity measures at the property are unknown to you, every effort should be made to contact the operator or the person in charge upon arrival.
- 24 hours (48 to 72 hours preferred) between visits including the vehicle for poultry or swine operations. If contamination of the vehicle was unavoidable or the vehicle is needed for another visit before the 24-time frame, take the vehicle to the carwash for a thorough cleaning inside and out.
- Put on clean, waterproof boots that can be disinfected or use disposable boot covers. Even at facilities that do not require such footwear, rubber boots or boot covers should be worn. Disinfect rubber boots at the time of arrival and before leaving the site. Plastic boot covers should only be used for and are only suitable for short visits. Do not forget to ask the farmer where you may dispose of your disposable boots when leaving, turn inside out and place in trash.
- Do not enter livestock facilities, unless absolutely necessary.
- Avoided animal contact, as well as, the fan exhaust, and all manure, unless absolutely necessary.
- Visibly check vehicle for "hitch-hiking" pests and other materials. Be sure to remove before leaving. This is especially important if you are traveling in the Spotted Lanternfly quarantine area.
Winter is the prime time to spread viral diseases. Please see the recent USDA press release "USDA Confirms Additional Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Finds in Wild Birds".
As you are leaving the operation ask yourself this question: 'Have I done everything required to protect the operation?". The farms profitability and livelihood may very well be in your hands.
If you should have any questions, feel free to reach out directly to your SCC Regional Coordinator.
