Statement from Agriculture Secretary Buddy Hance on Agribusiness Security

ANNAPOLIS, MD (May 3, 2011) – “In light of recent events and the start of a new growing season, this is a good time to remind farmers and agribusinesses of on-farm biosecurity measures and to double check that they are in place.  I encourage farmers and agribusinesses to be aware of their surroundings, remain alert and vigilant in implementing routine security measures.

Farmers should maintain biosecurity procedures to protect the health of livestock by taking common sense precautions to prevent the transmission of disease.  Agribusinesses, especially those who sell, distribute, transport, store, or apply pesticides, should review their security risks, needs and heighten their critical security control points. Should you experience a breach in security, pesticide or application equipment theft or if suspicious activity occurs, you should report these incidents to your local police department.

The Maryland Emergency Management Agency, in partnership with Maryland Law Enforcement agencies advises that homeland security begins with hometown security where an alert public plays a critical role in keeping our nation safe.  If You See Something/Say Something – report any and all suspicious behaviors and situations to local law enforcement. Report Homeland Security threats to the Maryland Coordination and Analysis Center at 1-800-492-TIPS.

Police and emergency management officials ask that citizens familiarize themselves with the Department of Homeland Security’s National Terrorism Advisory System, which replaces the former color-coded alert system.  Citizens can find information on the new terror alert system at:http://www.mema.state.md.us/MEMA/content_page.jsp?TOPICID=ntas.”