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Emergency Response in Disasters Involving Livestock What Happens Before You Dispose of the Carcasses? Lessons Learned

Published by the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers, St. Joseph, Michigan www.asabe.org

Citation:  International Symposium on Air Quality and Manure Management for Agriculture Conference Proceedings, 13-16 September 2010, Dallas, Texas  711P0510cd.(doi:10.13031/2013.32682)
Authors:   Robert E DeOtte, David J Solis
Keywords:   KEYWORDS: agricultural disaster preparedness, livestock disaster, livestock disaster response, agricultural disaster response, carcass disposal

Since 2006 Texas has made significant progress in response to disasters involving livestock. In March 2006, the largest 1-d wildfire in U. S. history engulfed 930,000 acres, resulting in the death of 3000 to 4500 head of cattle. During that episode, the advantages of coordinating efforts among government agencies, volunteers, and producer representatives became obvious. Subsequent disasters, including other wildfires and several hurricanes, have built upon that model. The Texas Division of Emergency Management has increased responsiveness to the agricultural sector, including designating one of the regional liaison officers (RLO) as the agricultural advisor. Agricultural interests, including disposal of livestock, must be considered in the response to disaster. Livestock owners bring resources to the response and know the habits of their animals. Disposal works best when carcasses are found early and dispatched before decomposition has advanced. This paper endeavors to provide insight to answer the following questions:

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