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New Missouri initiative focuses on agroterrorism
By Colette Lefebvre
Nevada Daily Mail
Should Vernon Countians be worried that agroterrisom could come to their door? According to Patrick Splichal of SES, Inc., yes, they should.
There haven't been any documented cases in the United States yet, but he stresses "yet." However, when asked if he believes that it could happen soon, Splichal replied that, it will occur somewhere outside of the United States first. Needless to say, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and the Missouri Department of Agriculture, have begun conducting agroterrisom clinics across the state. Agroterrorism is, "Any deliberate and intentional act that causes diseases to spread to livestock and/or crops," explained Splichal.
The main focus in agroterrorism is centered on foot and mouth disease and avian epidemics -- which could happen, according to Splichal.
A workshop held at Greenfield's Harvest House, Nevada, was an all day event, with officials arriving at 9 a.m. and leaving at 3 p.m. It was an event that sought to educate various departments and officials in the county. Vernon County Sheriff Ron Peckman, said, "The workshop is focusing on what we are expected to do, in the event that it (agroterrorism) does occur."
Vernon County commissioners, representatives of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, various members of the University of Missouri Extension Office and other local officials were present.
SES, Inc., Patrick's company, was contracted by the state of Missouri to educate local growers, producers and officials.
"Individuals do not need any specialized training to participate in the workshop," said Splichal.
Agroterrorism would have serious impact on local markets, because "when the food supply is killed off, then so are lives and jobs," said Splichal.
So, far this innovative workshop has been conducted in Nebraska, but it is unknown whether it will go nationwide. Those who participated in Wednesday's workshop acted out different scenarios that would place them in a situation to which the new and specialized training could apply. The workshops began in Greene county and so far agroterrorism workshops have been completed in 40 counties, and there still are 59 counties to go.
One of the issues discussed was "backyard biosecurrity," or preventive measures producers can take.
For example, The Missouri Department of Agriculture recommends that access to private property and birds stay restricted.
"Wear clean clothes, scrub shoes, and wash hands thoroughly before entering a bird area." states the United States Department of Agriculture's informational sheet. Also, the USDA recommends poultry owners, if they have been near other birds or bird owners to disinfect themselves as well as the areas, in which they have frequented after coming into contact with poultry. The USDA also states the warning signs of an infectious bird. A sudden increase in bird deaths in a flock, sneezing, gasping for air, coughing and nasal discharge, watery green diarrhea and/or tremors, drooping wings, circling or twisting of the neck, or lack of movement. These are just a few signs that the USDA recommends poultry owners look for in order to monitor any type of agroterrorism.
Agroterrorism continues to be a threat, according to officials and preparedness is key even in rural America.
For more information on upcoming classes and/or workshops contact the Vernon County Extension Office at (417) 448-2560.