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2008 Policy Book
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The continued threat of terrorist attacks on America has resulted in an increased awareness and scrutiny being placed on the possibility of agricultural terrorism. There is a fine line between being over-reactive and creating unnecessary regulation versus being acutely aware of agriculture's vulnerability. In trying to determine this delicate balance, we support the following:
- Increased penalties for individuals who destroy or contaminate agricultural property with the intent to create terror.
- Increased communication between state departments and federal agencies in preparing for a response to an agricultural terrorist attack or threat.
- Continued testing and monitoring of food and feed produced and used by agriculture.
- Evaluating the security of food and animal feed storage facilities.
- A stronger effort to increase bio-security measures on farm operations and at the state and national level.
We encourage increased funding to protect the animal health population and ag industries at airports and ports of entry.
We strongly encourage a proactive approach from the farming community in preparedness measures including:
- Communication with local law enforcement and emergency services regarding any suspicious activity.
- Reporting any theft of fertilizer or diesel fuel.
- Verification of the validity of any requests for information about an agricultural facility.
- Controlled access to facilities.
We further encourage:
- Screening of employees.
- Increased scrutiny and screening of all imported agricultural goods.
- Giving preference to domestically produced agricultural goods.
- Changes to regulations established for the purpose of preventing agricultural terrorism which need to consider the importance of maintaining an adequate workforce for agriculture and related industries.
We oppose additional regulation without consultation with the agricultural community.
