U.S. Small-Scale Livestock Operation Approach to Biosecurity

Agricultural biosecurity is a pressing global issue that must be given continuous attention by researchers, producers, consumers, and government agencies responsible for food security. This article examines the relevant literature specifically related to recommended practices for U.S. small-scale farms and ranches to minimize potential disease susceptibility in animals and humans. Current training and educational resources appear to focus on mechanisms of disease transmission and ecological and/or social factors that support mitigation efforts. Training against biological incursion and knowledge of diseases are typically focused on serving the continuing educational needs of veterinarians, epidemiological groups, and animal health technicians for large-scale facilities. However, there is a gap in the available resources that could be beneficial to keepers of livestock, smaller farmers, and ranchers who lack the financial capability to employ the most proven prevention or mitigation strategies. There have been limited comprehensive reviews in the U.S. of disease control, perception, education, or analysis on current prevention measures among small-scale producers. Findings from a review of the literature were used to formulate disease-prevention training resources and outreach strategies directed at U.S. small-scale farm operators and those likely to be involved in disease outbreak situations (e.g., veterinarians, first responders, and family members). The evaluation of the current types and causes of diseases, along with their respective level of current threat to agriculture, was a fundamental strategy to achieve this goal while reviewing literature focused on U.S. biosecurity and international biosecurity. Developing an evidence-based approach to prevention measures for biosecurity operations will allow for more effective execution and adoption of protocols for small-scale farms.