Natural disaster resources available now
10 March 2020
Integrity Systems Company (ISC) has released a suite of natural disaster response bulletins aimed at helping producers plan and respond to bushfires, floods and the impacts of drought.
These new resources have been developed to assist producers ensure their livestock are properly cared for and the requirements of Australia’s red meat integrity system continue to be met in the event of a bushfire, flood or for those impacted by drought.
Farming or harvesting goats after a bushfire, or during a drought or flood, can be challenging and stressful.
For producers impacted by natural disasters, human and animal health and welfare are the priorities. After a natural disaster, goats may be dead or injured, access to feed may be reduced, and fences and other equipment may be damaged.
Often, the first requirement following a natural disaster is the provision of food and water. When sourcing emergency fodder exercise caution and always request a Commodity Vendor Declaration (CVD).
Longer term strategies may include the removal of livestock to another location where adequate food and water can be provided, such as an agistment paddock, stock route or feedlot, or the sale of livestock.
If transporting goats, ensure they are fit for transport and all movements are recorded with LPA National Vendor Declarations (NVDs) and on the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS), ensuring treatments and exposure to food safety hazards are traceable.
The NLIS database can also be used to reconcile goat numbers and update the number of head on your property following a natural disaster.
Producers should regularly monitor the health and welfare of goats, ensuring they have enough feed and water and that appropriate treatment for sick, injured or diseased stock is undertaken at the first reasonable opportunity.
Producers accredited under the Livestock Production Assurance (LPA) program should ensure the treatment of goats is in line with the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines.
The natural disaster response bulletins can be accessed here.
