February 20, 2023

US NASDA members support new incentives to help farmers respond against animal diseases

Members of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) in the United States  recently supported creating new incentives to assist US farmers in the development of response plans to prepare for and prevent animal disease outbreaks.

The support was expressed during the 2023 Winter Policy Conference.

The policy item passed on February 20 by NASDA members stated: "NASDA encourages USDA to develop incentives to help producers develop depopulation and disposal plans to prepare for animal disease emergencies."

NASDA chief executive officer Ted McKinney remarked on the importance of supporting farmers and ranchers in their endeavors to protect US livestock.

"As animal disease outbreaks have become more frequent in recent years, it has become even more critical for farmers to have preparedness and response plans in the event of an animal disease emergency," McKinney said. "Often in these scenarios, actions need to be taken quickly to prevent further disease spread, and without a plan in place, contamination risk can heighten. We want to ensure that farmers and ranchers who may not have developed a response plan have the resources, information and support to do so.

"NASDA stands ready to assist USDA in creating incentives and support for farmers. This action would protect our food supply as strong disease prevention and preparedness leads to a healthy and more resilient food system."

The policy item also complements NASDA's efforts to bring together farmers, ranchers, industry and the US government to help strengthen animal health protection.

- NASDA