By Blake Jackson
Protecting livestock from costly disease outbreaks starts with strong biosecurity practices, and Wisconsin producers have an opportunity to strengthen their preparedness through a series of upcoming workshops.
Livestock biosecurity focuses on preventing the spread of disease-causing germs to, within, and from farms. This includes mapping farm premises, establishing clear lines of separation, and managing how people, vehicles, and equipment move on and off a property. These measures are critical to limiting the impact of a potential disease event and safeguarding both animal health and farm income.
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has partnered with the University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension to host “Holding the Line” premises biosecurity mapping workshops across the state.
The sessions are designed to help livestock producers and veterinarians create detailed draft maps of their operations to improve emergency preparedness.
Workshops will be held March 16 in Dodgeville, March 23 in Jefferson, March 30 in Medford, and March 31 in Green Bay, all from 6-8 p.m. Additional sessions are planned for August.
The workshops are free to attend, funded through a USDA National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program grant. Pre-registration is required, and space is limited. Registration closes one week before each session.
For more information, contact Kurt Grajkowski, Emergency Services Coordinator for DATCP’s Division of Animal Health at kurte.grajkowski@wisconsin.gov.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-pamwalker68
Categories: Wisconsin, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle