Let’s take a minute and get back to basics. Farm security is important for many reasons but can often be overlooked as farmers are busy with so many other important tasks. It can be easy to be lured into a sense of complacency when you know your neighbors, but those targeting animal agriculture are looking for any opportunity to strike.
Animal rights extremists continually attempt to gain access to farms and facilities by any means necessary – and oftentimes that comes with a lack of biosecurity measures like proper clothing and sanitizing. In the times of avian influenza and other contagious diseases, it’s more important than ever that we ensure we’re not opening up our farms to extremists and any potential new pathogens they may bring in. As you work to protect your animals, your property, and your employees, there are several aspects of implementing a strong farm security plan that can serve as your first line of defense. Here are three tips to get you started:
1. Start by making your farm “YouTube proof.”
- Pretend someone is taking a video of your farm to share on YouTube. Are you comfortable with that scenario? Typically, we don’t get a heads up or time to prepare when anti-animal agriculture visitors stop by. Be proactive in ensuring you’re doing everything right ahead of time.
- Protect yourself and your animals by always using science-based animal care and environmental policies. Make sure family members and employees are trained on these policies as well.
- Conduct self-audits to find new ways to improve and ensure current practices and protocols are being properly followed.
2. Make yourself a harder target!
- Put up “No Trespassing” signs.
- Install motion sensor lighting and security cameras.
- Have gates and fencing with locks – and make sure they’re locked when not in use!
3. Be cautious with hiring.
- You might have done all you can do to protect yourself from unwanted visitors entering your farm, but extremists know other ways to gain access to your property, including through employment. It’s important to never cut corners on your hiring process and to always have a formal policy. This should include a written application with references and past employers. It’s imperative that you take proper precautions and call the employers to verify that this person is who they say they are.
- Trust your gut. If something feels off, trust your instincts. Don’t hire someone that could be a potential liability down the road.
As we continue to combat animal rights extremism, it is increasingly important for everyone in the animal agriculture and food communities to keep security top-of-mind. America’s farms, ranches and food processing facilities are the front lines of our food supply. Keeping them safe and secure is essential to animal health and well-being, in addition to ensuring the safety of our milk, meat, poultry, eggs and seafood and protecting the reputation of our community.
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Abby Kornegay is the manager of issues and engagement for the Animal Agriculture Alliance.
