Department of Agriculture and Forestry, State of Louisiana - Mike Strain DVM, Commissioner

NEWS

Strain: Prepare for Red River Flooding — Have a livestock plan; prepare property

June 5, 2015

Baton Rouge, LA (June 5, 2015) – The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) is monitoring the Red River and the impact it will have on the Shreveport area. According to the National Weather Service, the Red River will crest Saturday evening in Shreveport in which flooding is expected.

“At this time, there is backwater flooding of agriculture land adjacent to the river. Cattle and farm equipment that have not been moved may be impacted. Cattle and horse owners should identify an area on their property that is least likely to flood and where livestock can quickly and easily be moved,” said Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain, D.V.M.

The LDAF is prepared to provide resources to Caddo/Bossier and other parishes that may be affected by flooding, if necessary. LDAF Brand Officers are on standby to provide assistance in the event livestock must be evacuated. The LDAF companion animal branch is also on standby to provide pet supplies if requested by parish offices of emergency preparedness.

“Now that it is hurricane season, this serves as a good reminder for livestock and pet owners to have a plan for all severe weather,” said Strain. “This is also a good time to mitigate potential damage to your property by removing dead trees or cutting back tree limbs hanging over homes or businesses.”

In the event tree limbs must be cut, it is recommended that a licensed arborist is hired because they are trained and they must maintain liability insurance. “Ask to see a license issued by LDAF before allowing any work to be done on the property. Also, make sure you get a written estimate and never pay for the job in full up front,” said Strain.

Proper identification for livestock that are evacuated is crucial during a natural disaster.

Livestock owners who need assistance should call their local office of emergency preparedness (OEP). “Your local OEPs have a network of veterinarians and other trained professionals ready to help livestock and pet owners,” Strain added.

For more information on emergency preparation for livestock and pets, visit www.LDAF.la.gov  and click on the Emergency Programs icon on the right hand side of the page. For more information on how to prepare a family and business plan, go to www.getagameplan.org.

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