Biosecurity resources: There’s a lot to know about protecting your herd from animal diseases. Fortunately, the information is as close as your computer.

"What doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger." This folksy sentiment rings true in our recent experience with bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), foot-and- mouth disease and anthrax. What we’ve learned about these diseases and, more importantly, what we’re doing about dairy biosecurity has us feeling stronger.
Accurate information has been one of the dairy industry’s greatest strengths during these disease threats. Many scientific institutions worldwide have developed sensible recommendations for disease control and posted them on the Internet, putting a growing body of practical information literally at your fingertips. Check out these websites:

www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/
The USDA Veterinary Service’s website includes what the agency has contributed to the national and regional disease control information-base.
www.oie.int/
The World Organization for Animal Health’s website gives a global perspective on animal disease control and food product safety.
www.biosecuritycenter.org/nbrctoc.htm
Purdue University has compiled detailed biosecurity information in The National Biosecurity Resource Center for Animal Health Emergencies.
http://nyschap.vet.cornell.edu/
Cornell University provides disease control information through the New York State Cattle Health Assurance Program’s (NYSCHAP) website. It also provides details on enrolling your herd in NYSCHAP. Pennsylvania producers can learn more about the Pennsylvania Dairy Quality Assurance program’s biosecurity component by contacting any of the following: PSU Veterinary Extension, (814) 863-2160; Dr. Brenda Coe, (814) 863-7738; or Dr. Larry Hutchinson, (814) 863-5938.
www.cce.cornell.edu/issues/cceresponds/biosecurity/index.htm
Cornell University’s Resilient Communities/Agriculture and Food Systems Biosecurity website contains many dairy biosecurity fact sheets.
www.DQACenter.org/
The Milk and Dairy Beef Quality Assurance Center’s FIVE-STAR Program is a voluntary audit program, similar to NYSCHAP. Participation in it qualifies you for a discount on some Farm Family Insurance policies. Find out about the center’s programs in your region by calling (800) 553-2479 or by mail at P.O. Box 497, Stratford, IA 50249.

Check info for accuracy

Before you wager your farm on any information, such as that about disease threats:

Consider the source. Is it credible? Does the person issuing the information have hidden motives?
Analyze the message. Does it present a balanced perspective?
Digest the content. Is it good science? Can it be corroborated?
Determine the value. Is it timely and practical for your situation?