National Farm-Level Biosecurity Standard For Dairy Sector
CANADA - The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), in collaboration with the Dairy Farmers of Canada (DFC), is developing a voluntary national farm-level biosecurity standard for the dairy sector.
31 January 2011
1 minute read
An advisory group will guide the development of the standard. This group will be composed of representatives from DFC, the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, academia, and provincial and federal governments.
"Canadian producers have a long-standing commitment to creating and implementing effective biosecurity programs on their farms," said Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. "The standard will build on this foundation by providing goals, objectives and measurable targets. Sound farm-level biosecurity protects animal health and maintains consumer confidence in Canadian products."
"Biosecurity at farm level is an important tool for preventing the occurrence of diseases in dairy herds," said Jacques Laforge, President of Dairy Farmers of Canada. "Developing a national standard, based on current practices, will encourage wider adoption of best practices on farms across the country. DFC is pleased to continue collaborating with the government on biosecurity and other initiatives that strengthen the dairy industry."
A benchmarking exercise will be conducted at the farm-level to help determine current biosecurity practices in the Canadian dairy industry. The exercise will also highlight existing best management practices and will give producers an opportunity to input into the standard.
The national standard is expected to be completed by spring 2012 and will focus on the broad issues affecting biosecurity. Biosecurity refers to activities that can be done to minimise the risk of introducing and spreading disease and pests.
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