
Module 4: Preplanning for an Event
Module 4
Overview
Veterinarians and extension professionals are trusted sources of animal health information. But are you prepared to advise producers during a foreign animal disease (FAD) outbreak? With diseases like avian influenza and African Swine Fever on the rise, it’s a matter of when, not if, an outbreak will affect your community.
FarmReady is a USDA-supported training program developed by the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, in partnership with USDA-APHIS and the Illinois Department of Agriculture. It’s designed to equip you with tools to educate clients on FAD prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery.
Pay Attention
- USDA Category II Accredited Veterinarians
- Livestock & Small Farm Extension Professionals
Take Away
Most disease planning focuses on large commercial farms—but 90% of U.S. farms are small, family-owned operations. These farms are often in remote areas, may lack veterinary access, and are less likely to practice strong biosecurity, putting both themselves and larger operations at risk.
FarmReady bridges this gap by supporting professionals who can reach small and midsized producers with essential disease preparedness knowledge.
Farm Biosecurity Self-Check
This self-check helps you review your farm’s biosecurity practices using the USDA Biosecurity Audit Tool. Work through each section below and answer honestly to see where your operation is strong and where improvements can be made. You can use this tool online or print a checklist for your records.
🧾 Section 1: Biosecurity Documentation
Having a written, up-to-date plan is the foundation of biosecurity compliance.Links to important materials
🚧 Section 2: Line of Separation (LOS) / Perimeter Buffer Area (PBA
The LOS and PBA help control who and what can enter animal areas.
🪣 Section 3: Mortality Monitoring and Disposal
Concise tips on daily checks, reporting, and pest-safe disposal.
🐦 Section 4: Wildlife and Pest Control
Checklist for rodent control, bird prevention, and structural maintenance.
🌾 Section 5: Feed, Bedding & Water
Short questions on feed storage, water safety, and spill cleanup.
🚜 Section 6: Vehicles and Equipment
Include cleaning/disinfection questions and daily-use reminders.
📋 Section7: Training and Records
Questions about staff training, visitor logs, and documentation consistency.
Wrap it Up. What have you learned?
A paragraph of info or bullet points
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