By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University Extension is organizing a Bovine Emergency Response Plan (BERP) training for individuals who may respond to livestock accidents. The event is scheduled for March 22, 2025, from 8:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CST at Hanson County School in Alexandria. The training is free, and participants must register by March 14 by contacting Brandon Wingert at 605-630-2602 or brandon@hanson.co.sd.us.
The training is designed for first responders, including law enforcement, firefighters, emergency medical teams, and other public safety officials. Veterinarians are also encouraged to attend, as they play a critical role in managing livestock emergencies. In rural areas, community members often assist in such situations, making this training beneficial for many.
Training Details:
The program aims to equip participants with the skills needed to handle livestock-related emergencies safely. It includes both classroom instruction and hands-on practice. Attendees will learn how to assess and secure an accident scene, recognize potential hazards, and manage different types of livestock trailers.
One of the key aspects of this training is teamwork. “This training is about bringing teams together so they can develop a quick and safe response plan to accidents involving livestock,” said Robin Salverson, SDSU Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist. “The scene of an accident is not the place to build a team.”
Participants will also learn about the necessary equipment for handling livestock emergencies and how to develop response plans tailored to their communities. The training emphasizes that prior experience with cattle does not replace the need for specialized emergency training.
The Bovine Emergency Response Plan was developed with support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture and the Beef Checkoff program.
Photo Credits:south-dakota-state-university
Categories: South Dakota, Livestock, Beef Cattle