Township Biosecurity Policy

The township is looking for input into a Draft Biosecurtiy Policy. We are encouraging everyone to look into what is proposed and be sure to include your own thoughts on the matter. The easiest way to voice your opinion is either with yoursaypertheast.com or by emailing the clerk.

Our own stance is basically summed up in the following points. We feel that the language and direction in the Draft Policy is too specific in scope, and could be much more simply stated:

• Prior to any employee, designate or member of staff seeking to enter upon any agriculture property in the Township, consent must be obtained FIRST.
  
• After consent has been obtained, Staff and employees will adhere to ANY and ALL protocols as designated by the property owner or agent.
  
• Staff should be properly equipped to adhere to most generally applied biosecurity protocols: ie. Have proper footwear, disposable coveralls etc.
  
• Staff, when making appointments with property owner, MUST inform the owner or agent of any prior farm visits within the last 48 hours and MUST obtain consent to make any subsequent daily visits to another farm. That is, if the Staff or Employee is to visit more than one property in one day.
  
• These provisions need not be followed in the event of an emergency, such as a fire.
  
  

There is also no specific language surrounding crop production, such as potential issues regarding weeds or soil borne disease etc. Please be sure to leave your comments. As always, we are open to ideas and constructive input.