Erin Coyle
Program Manager, Emergency Management
Cell: (360) 764-9704
ecoyle@agr.wa.gov
The Washington State Department of Agriculture is responsible for responding to animal and agricultural emergencies that happen in our state. The United States Department of Agriculture and WSDA work in partnership to plan and coordinate emergency responses to protect the state's agriculture. WSDA, USDA, and other partners within the animal and agricultural sector work to prevent and respond to foreign animal disease outbreaks, dangerous plant or pest infestations, food and feed illness outbreaks, radiological releases, and bioterrorism attacks.
The WSDA Emergency Management program assists the state by conducting trainings, exercises, and outreach activities. The program also assists in response and recovery actions during natural or man-made emergencies and disasters.
Information and links for farmers and ranchers on resources available to them after a natural disaster.
Information for livestock, poultry, and dairy stakeholders.
Steps to take in the event of a radiation emergency for farmers, ranchers, and the public.
Visit the state of Washington Emergency Resources website for information on a variety of natural disasters and homeland security threats. Here are a few key resources for general preparation.
All emergencies begin locally. While help may be on the way, ensure you have taken precautions to safeguard yourself, your family, and your agricultural enterprise. Make an emergency plan, prepare a response kit, and consider action that will aid you in all phases of the emergency management cycle (Preparedness, Response, Recovery, and Mitigation)
WSDA is the primary coordinating agency for the Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan, Emergency Support Function 11: Agriculture and Natural Resources. All other Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plans are located on the Washington State Emergency Management Department's website here.
The Washington State Department of Agriculture coordinates with USDA APHIS for guidance on foreign animal disease response activities. Their website [external link], provides resources on all Foreign Animal Disease Prepared (FAD PReP) documents, disease response plans, standard operating procedures, reference guides, links to SecureFood Supply Plans, and more. WSDA recognizes USDA as the industry leader in these plans and coordinates for effective state and federal responses.
WSDA understands that emergencies and disasters start locally. This is why we work with and encourage our local jurisdictions to reach out to us for assistance.
The PETS Act amends the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to ensure that State and local emergency preparedness operational plans address the needs of individuals with household pets andservice animals following a major disaster. For additional resources on the PETS Act, and what it means for jurisdiction, visit the American Veterinary Medical Association's page and their frequently asked questions.
The WSDA is dedicated to assisting our state in preparing for animal and agriculture natural disasters. It has beenthrough much collaboration and dedication to outreach that we reach out to our county and regional partners toexercise and train with local, state, and federal partners. Below are examples of past exercises we have conducted with these entities. For additional exercise materials and after action reviews, please contact us. We are dedicated to assisting others in preparing their communities for emergencies and disasters in their own neighborhoods.
Foreign Animal Disease Tabletop Exercises: