A Disaster-Ready Strategy for Cattle Operations

By Addie Stamps

Natural disasters and disease outbreaks can strike at any time, but planning ahead keeps losses minimal and protects both our animals and livelihoods. For cattle producers, we can incorporate guidance and resources into a cohesive operation‑level emergency action plan.

Without a plan, cattle operations expose themselves to liability risks, animal welfare issues, consumer scrutiny, and increased recovery costs. A documented plan enables quick decision‑making, ensures continuity of care, and facilitates assistance requests.

Here’s a phased approach to developing or revising your on‑site plan.

1. Form your planning team & assess hazards

• Identify key collaborators: your farm manager/owner, herd veterinarian, trusted employees, neighbor producers, and local first responders or Extension personnel.
• Analyze likely threats: fire, flood, drought, extreme heat/cold, tornadoes, disease. Adopt an “all‑hazards” mindset but tailor to your geography.
• Define planning objectives: e.g. keep livestock fed/watered during utility outage, evacuate safely if needed, maintain records and source verification, and support recovery.

2. Draft operational procedures using BQA best practices

• Create a written emergency action plan (EAP) that includes:
  • Operation name, PIN or official ID, physical address, owner/manager contact info.
  • Important phone numbers: vet, Extension, emergency services, utilities, feed supplier.
  • A site map showing pens, shelter, water sources, power, access routes.
  • Animal identification protocols: ear tags, USDA tags, branding, or temporary spray paint in urgent conditions to aid tracking and recovery.
  • Daily chore lists and replacement instructions (so a proxy caretaker can step in): feeding schedules, water checks, manure removal, medication dosing.
  • Mortality management: plans for burial, composting, or disposal according to local regulations.
  • Staffing and proxy training: identify backup caretakers, ensure they are familiar with operations through periodic walk‑throughs and practice drills.