Posted August 23, 2016 at 11:32am by Hannah Reid
Agency of Agriculture to Provide Free Biosecurity Supplies to Vermont Swine Farmers
Throughout the months of August and September, Vermont swine farmers may apply for a free biosecurity kit from the Animal Health Section of the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets (VAAFM) in order to implement disease prevention practices, and help stop the transmission of diseases both onto and off of Vermont farms.
By applying proper on-farm biosecurity measures, swine producers can help protect their livestock, their businesses, human health, and other agricultural assets from disease. Farmers may request a free biosecurity kit by filling out this application bit.ly/2bd0Ck6or calling the Animal Health Section of the VAAFM at (802) 828-2421. Kits will consist of equipment such as disinfectants and personal protective gear, along with biosecurity practice implementation instructions. Animal Health Field Specialist will provide the kits to producers and offer additional assistance to help farmers determine the best way to implement realistic and effective practices. Biosecurity kits, valued at $100 are available on a first come, first served basis.
The deadline to apply for a free kit is September 30, 2016.
State Veterinarian Dr. Kristin Haas encourages swine farmers to be proactive about protecting the health and wellbeing of their animals.
“Biosecurity is the best way to minimize the chance of introducing viruses such as Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea or Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome to your herd,” stated Haas. “Many of the best management practices that producers can implement to ensure proper biosecurity on farms are easy and inexpensive to maintain. All swine producers should evaluate their farms for risk factors and work with a veterinarian to develop a biosecurity plan tailored to your swine herd needs.”
For more about Animal Health and disease prevention, contact VAAFM’s Animal Health Section by phone: (802) 828-2421, by email: agr.animalhealth@vermont.gov, or visit: agriculture.vermont.gov/animal_health/disease_prevention.