As more processing facilities have announced closures over the weekend, livestock producers are faced with even more challenges. In response, the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service announced the establishment of a National Incident Coordination Center to provide direct support to producers whose animals cannot move to market as a result of processing plant closures.
American livestock and poultry producers are facing an unprecedented emergency due to COVID-19, particularly with the closing of meat processing plants in several states. USDA is leading the federal response by working in coordination with the Vice President’s Task Force, the CDC, OSHA, Department of Labor, industry, state and local governments, and others across the federal family to mitigate the impacts of COVID-19 on producers. APHIS is committed to seek solutions to ensure the continuity of operations and return to production as quickly, safely and as health considerations allow at these critical facilities.
While this work continues, APHIS is establishing a National Incident Coordination Center to provide direct support to producers whose animals cannot move to market as a result of processing plant closures due to COVID-19. Going forward, APHIS’ Coordination Center, State Veterinarians, and other state officials will be assisting to help identify potential alternative markets if a producer is unable to move animals, and if necessary, advise and assist on depopulation and disposal methods.
Additionally, APHIS will mobilize and deploy assets of the National Veterinary Stockpile as needed and secure the services of contractors that can supply additional equipment, personnel, and services, much as it did during the large-scale Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza emergency in 2015.
The USDA’s Natural Resources and Conservation Service will also be providing state level technical assistance to producers and will provide cost share assistance under the Environmental Quality Incentives Program in line with program guidelines for disposal.
