Agriculture and food production is a critical and essential industry as deemed by the federal and state government. That means those providing animal care, including veterinary services, and those in food manufacturing, such as packing plants, should continue their work to provide food to the country. Also, livestock markets are still fully operational.
There are currently no movement restrictions on livestock in the U.S. related to COVID-19. If you live in an area impacted by a local stay-at-home order and want some extra reassurance in the event you’re asked by someone if you are part of an essential industry when conducting regular business, you can print and carry an authorization letter from the Texas Department of Agriculture and the DHS list of Critical Infrastructure Industries.
Below is a letter developed by the NPPC for your use, indicating that you are an Essential Critical Infrastructure Worker.
Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce, from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Essential Worker Travel Form, from Texas Department of Agriculture
Essential Critical Infrastructure Worker Form
Critical Workers Safety Practices
Essential Critical Workers Do’s and Don’ts
Texas Animal Health Commission FAQ for Animal Owners
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Webinars
The Pork Checkoff continues to share current information with producers and partnering with industry leaders.
March 24, 2020 – Impact on International and Domestic Markets
Provides good background about COVID-19 and related issues to pig production. Dr. Heather Fowler, director of producer and public health for the Pork Checkoff, explained what we know and current control measures. The National Pork Producers Council also had staff on the line to share how they are working on related issues.