May 9, 2002

Biosecurity Important on All Livestock Farms, NDSU Vet Says

With concerns over terrorism, biosecurity has taken on new importance for livestock farms. A North Dakota State University veterinarian says the biggest concerns are those that have always been issues for livestock producers.

"In reality, we buy and pay for most of our biosecurity problems," says Charlie Stoltenow of the NDSU Extension Service. "In most cases we provide no isolation for new animals coming onto the farm and we don’t provide time for those animals to acclimate to our operations. We make quick decisions, but it takes time to ensure biosecurity."

"Information," Stoltenow says, "provides protection." He urges producers to get to know the producers they purchase animals from. "What do we know about the animals we bring onto our farms, their health plans and their development programs? Do they come from one ranch or all over the region?" With answers to those questions, producers can ease the transition of new animals into the herd and production system.

North Dakota producers still have a tremendous problem with shipping fever, a conglomeration of health problems that many attribute to the stress of moving cattle to market. "That stress may have something to do with it, but could it also have something to do with bringing animals together from 20 or more different sources in a sale barn?"

"You need to realize what you could be buying," Stoltenow says. "Every time you buy an animal, you buy the inherent risk of a disease you don’t already have in your herd." Ask for vaccination records and certified disease testing records. Ask to see a copy of the health management plan, he advises. "The more you know about those livestock, the better decisions you can make."

Asking for information goes for feed, too. You may know the quality of your own grain and forages, but how about those you buy from a neighbor or the elevator? "There are toxins that can develop from diseases in the field or from molds during storage," Stoltenow explains. "Ask about those issues, or better yet, have your feeds tested or ask for test results. In many cases you can use feeds that have those toxins, but you may need to blend them or keep them away from pregnant or lactating animals. You can’t make those management decisions if you don’t know those toxins are in your feed."

Producers may also need to restrict access to their farms. "We all want to help each other, but if your neighbor shows up with dirty coveralls and muddy boots, you may be introducing the health problems from his farm onto your own," Stoltenow points out. "If you bring people onto your farm to help with livestock, require that they wear clean clothing or provide it for them."

"Biosecurity procedures are going to be different for every operation," Stoltenow says. Beef backgrounders may want to manage new cattle separately and get them acclimated to new feeding and handling regimens, for example. In 30 to 45 days most respiratory diseases will become evident and can be treatable. Other health concerns, such as Johnes disease, may take 90 days or more to become evident. "The best strategy then is to find out as much information as possible on the animals so you can prevent those diseases," Stoltenow says.

"Involving your local veterinarian, is a good idea. They can advise you on the incubation and infectivity of various diseases." he says. "They’ll help you put together a biosecurity plan that will work in your operation and provide the best possible protection from biological threats."

Stoltenow notes that intentional biological attacks are possible for livestock producers, especially in light of recent terrorist threats and attacks. "Keep an eye on your cattle and their facilities. Look for things that are out of the ordinary. Know the people who frequent your farm – your feed suppliers, neighbors and service providers. If a stranger shows up, ask questions. Find out what’s going on and contact local authorities if necessary."

Many strategies for preventing natural biological hazards – limiting access to livestock facilities, keeping a closer watch on animals and facilities, getting to know suppliers – will help prevent intentional attacks as well.

"Biosecurity strategies are all alike in one way, they all cost money." Stoltenow says. "But if we’re not practicing these precautions, we are probably paying for it down the road. Decreased production and increased levels of disease can be very costly."

###

Source: Charlie Stoltenow, (701) 231-7533, cstolten@ndsuext.nodak.edu
Editor: Tom Jirik, (701) 231-9629, tjirik@ndsuext.nodak.edu

Click here to download an Audio clip to accompany this story. (661KB wav file)