Agriculture Disaster Response

Farmedic Program 2015

Agriculture jobs are the 9 ^th most dangerous field of work in the United States, according to a Time Magazine article published in 2014 [i].

The National Farmedic Training Program, developed by Cornell University, provides First Responders (fire/rescue personnel) with the training and resources they need in order to execute farm rescues using safe methods for the victims as well as the rescue team.

On June 12^th and 13^th, Cornell Cooperative Extension Dutchess County coordinated a Farmedic Training Program for 30 local firefighters and EMS workers . Participants came from the Amenia, Dover, East Fishkill, Millbrook, Millerton, Pine Plains and Wassaic volunteer fire companies. There was a waiting list for the training. This program was made possible through the Dutchess County Agency Partnership Grant for Agriculture & Farming Sustainability.

The 12-hour course included classroom instruction (Farm and Home Center, Millbrook), a farm tour (Coons Brothers Farm, Amenia) and hands-on rescue procedures (Rally Farms, Millbrook). Mock victims of “Rescue Randy” and “Tyvek Teddy” (crash dummies for rescue workers) were staged from PTO shafts, hay balers, and other farm equipment.

The participants were issued the Farmedic Training patch and will receive their continuing education certificates from the sponsoring agency, McNeil and Co., Cortland, NY. Additional support was provided by Dutchess County Emergency Management, Pine Plains Ford Tractor, Columbia Tractor, Madison’s Pizzeria, Brennan’s Market and Renny’s Deli.

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Dutchess County Animal Response Program

Are you prepared for a disaster? Have you created a farm emergency plan? Have you made plans for your animals (livestock as well as pets) as well? This educational outreach program serves all animal owners (pets and livestock) of Dutchess County with the sole purpose of preparing for disasters and emergencies.

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Resources

Disaster Preparedness for Production Agriculture - an educational tool developed to assist farmers to become better prepared for ANY disaster.

NY Extension Disaster Education Network Linking extension educators, emergency managers, and community officials to enhance resilience and reduce the impact of disasters in New York communities.

NYS Animal Response Team

Last updated July 26, 2019