Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Is Your Farm Cyclone Ready?

With the threat of cyclone imminent, here are our top tips for farmers to cyclone proof your crops and agricultural business.

Plan: As the saying goes, Failing to Plan is Planning to Fail. Have a detailed lock-down plan, with all staff having specific instructions on their individual tasks. Having each individual on a specific task allows each person to not be overwhelmed in an emergency.

Clear: It is best to clear trees and shrubs away from buildings and sheds, as well as ensure that power lines are well cleared to avoid electrical fires.

Livestock: The Burdekin Shire Council Place of Refuge does have a space to shelter pets in a cyclone, however, all animals must present in a cage and have adequate food and water supplies. However, for livestock and paddock animals, ensure that all animals have a form of identification. If transporting to a secondary secure location, ensure that all handlers and drivers are well experienced and that the mew location has plenty of food and water for all the animals. Where relocation or evacuation is not possible, the farmer must consider either turning the livestock loose, to be rounded up later, or moving them into a secure area.

Crops: To best prepare crops, ensure that drains are well maintained, with contour banks and farm waterways to limit flooding and crop damage. Consider windbreaks, crop layout and support structures that are designed to best support the crops. Clear headlands and paddock access points of all potential debris.

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