Rural Readiness

Large flat tracts of land, such as farms and fields can be vulnerable to a variety of natural hazards. Floods can damage crops and make them inedible. Large isolated barns and silos may be particularly vulnerable to lightning, and by extension, fire.  It is imperative to always be two steps ahead when it comes to ensuring your farm's safety in the event of a natural disaster.

Here are a few extra steps you can take to protect your land and livestock:

·         Familiarize yourself with the disaster response plan in your community. Know where you can find emergency shelters.

·         Take full inventory of your property, livestock, equipment, chemicals, and fuel.

·         Choose a safe, flood-resistant location to store extra fuel, food and water for livestock, and a generator.

·         Know your evacuation routes for you and your livestock, and keep livestock out of barns that are prone to flooding.

If your field is flooded during a disaster, it is recommended that flooded areas not be planted again for at least 30 to 60 days. Before replanting, make sure the soil is dry and has been reworked.

Looking for more information on preparing your farm for disasters? Check out the FEMA page for farmers and gardeners.