APHIS is an Emergency Response Organization |
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APHIS’ mission is to protect the health and value of U.S. agricultural, natural and other resources. To fulfill this mission, APHIS has created an Emergency Management Leadership Council, along with the Emergency Preparedness Staff and the Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security.
All Hazards (ESF #11) |
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Under the National Response Framework, USDA is a primary agency for Emergency Support Function #11, Agriculture and Natural Resources. APHIS is expected to play a significant role in a wide variety of emergency incidents, including “all hazards” emergencies (i.e., those unrelated to outbreaks of pests and diseases threatening agricultural production.) [Description of ESF #11 (pdf)]
Animal Health Emergency |
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APHIS’ Veterinary Services (VS) program safeguards U.S. poultry and
livestock from the introduction, establishment and spread of foreign animal
diseases. VS’ National Center for Animal Health Emergency Management
develops strategies and policies for effective incident management, and coordinates
incident responses.
Pet Evacuation and Shelter |
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Hurricane Katrina clearly demonstrated that enabling pet evacuation promotes citizen evacuation, thereby saving human lives, as well as pets. The Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act and the Post Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act created a requirement for the federal government and States to develop disaster management plans for household pets. APHIS is integral to providing for the well-being of household pets by working with States and Tribes to develop and implement emergency plans that include evacuation and sheltering of pets.
Plant Health Emergency |
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APHIS’ Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) program safeguards U.S. agriculture and natural resources from the introduction, establishment, and spread of plant pests, diseases, and noxious weeds. PPQ’s Emergency and Domestic Programs unit provides national leadership and coordination in crop biosecurity and emergency management.
Last Modified: September 22, 2008