By Times Chronicle Staff
The Province is encouraging ranchers and farmers to register the location of their livestock to protect their animals during emergencies as wildfire season is fast approaching.
Premises ID – mandatory, free and confidential – is a key component of BC’s animal traceability system, which the Province says contributes to ensuring “stable, local meat supply chains and market access for livestock producers throughout the province.” Animal identification and animal movement reporting are the other two key pieces of the livestock traceability system.
The program helps link livestock and poultry to the geographic areas where they are kept. This information helps emergency responders reach animals faster so they can quickly prioritize assistance during evacuations or animal disease outbreaks. Premises ID registration is currently mandatory in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec and Prince Edward Island.
“Ranchers and farmers are deeply committed to the well-being of their animals, especially in times of crisis,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food. “By registering with Premises ID, they ensure emergency responders have access to fast and accurate information — providing critical support and peace of mind when every second counts.”
There are more than 10,000 ranchers and farmers registered with Premises ID with 100 per cent supply-managed (i.e. dairy cattle and poultry) participation and over 80 per cent of cattle producers.
Kevin Boon, general manager, BC Cattlemen’s Association underscored the importance of learning from previous years of wildfire events. “Premises ID has become a cornerstone of our communications and co-ordination for livestock welfare and movement. Making sure your operation is registered is one more way to help us help you with things like the Ranch Liaison and Range Rider programs.”
