Pig issues on RLPB agenda
Rural Lands Protection Boards (RLPB) are working with pig producers to raise awareness of effective biosecurity measures to safeguard the state’s livestock industries.
State Council Animal Health Manager, Stephen Ottaway, said the prevention of swill feeding and increased traceability would not only help keep pig herds free from disease but also avoid spreading any problems to sheep, cattle and goats.
“RLPBs play an important role in administering and promoting good biosecurity practices and are working with landholders to bring about a greater awareness and understanding of the responsibilities of pig owners in NSW.
“Even one pig in a backyard that becomes infected with an exotic disease such as foot and mouth has the potential to close our billion dollar cattle and sheep export markets overnight.
“One of the key activities in which boards are involved is the prevention of swill feeding through inspections and compliance checks at piggeries.
“Swill feeding is when livestock are fed meat products including carcasses or products that have been in contact with meat. It is an illegal practice and has the potential to spread diseases such as anthrax and foot and mouth,” Stephen Ottaway said.
Identifying pig populations and tracing pig movements is also crucial to respond effectively during an animal disease outbreak and return markets and farming operations to normal as quickly as possible.
“Boards are encouraging pig producers who have not already done so to consider registering a Property Identification Code (PIC) and ensure they record the number of pigs held on their property when filling out their annual RLPB Land and Stock Return.
“Those on smaller non-rateable holdings can apply for a PIC, which is used to trace livestock and for a limited time is available free of charge from your local RLPB.
“In the event of an emergency animal disease outbreak it’s critical that boards are aware of all stock numbers and locations so they can work accurately and efficiently to minimise the impacts.
RLPBs also play an important advisory role to keep landholders and producers informed of best farm management practices and changes in regulations and improve understanding of disease surveillance.
“Legislation and standards can be quite technical and boards can help to interpret and demonstrate how they can best be applied at a practical level,” Stephen Ottaway added.
For further information or to obtain a free PIC contact your local Rural Lands Protection Board.
MEDIA CONTACT: Kelly Ingham (02) 6391 3242 Mob 0428 465 378