Farming is a vital part of our economy and culture, but it comes with its own set of challenges. One of the more distressing aspects is dealing with fallen stock—livestock that has died on your farm. It’s crucial to understand the proper procedures for disposal, not only for legal compliance but also for maintaining biosecurity and animal welfare standards. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps for the disposal of fallen stock, ensuring you are well-informed and prepared.
Understanding Fallen Stock Regulations
When livestock dies on your farm, it must be collected, identified, and transported without ‘undue delay’. This means that as soon as is reasonably practical under the circumstances, arrangements should be made for collection. The regulations are strict: you must not burn or bury fallen stock on your farm or feed them to red kites or necrophagous birds (birds that feed on carcasses).
These measures are in place to prevent disease spread and protect public health. Therefore, understanding these regulations is essential for every farmer.
Approved Disposal Methods
The law stipulates specific methods for disposing of fallen stock. You must arrange for the animal to be collected by an approved transporter and taken to one of the following facilities:
- Knacker: A knacker’s yard is a facility where dead animals are processed. They ensure that remains are disposed of in a safe manner.
- Hunt Kennel: Some hunt kennels may accept fallen stock; however, this typically depends on their policies regarding disease control.
- Maggot Farm: These farms use maggots to break down carcasses efficiently while providing a source of protein for animal feed.
- Incinerator: Incineration is an effective method that ensures complete destruction of any pathogens present in the carcass.
- Renderer: Rendering facilities convert animal by-products into usable materials such as fats and proteins.
It’s important to note that this same protocol applies to stillborn animals and afterbirth as well.
Immediate Actions After Livestock Death
While waiting for your fallen stock to be collected, there are immediate actions you should take:
- Prevent Access: Ensure that other animals—both domestic and wild—cannot access the carcass. This can help prevent further health risks or contamination.
- Temporary Storage Solutions: If collection cannot happen immediately due to circumstances like high mortality rates or logistical issues, consider using bins as temporary storage solutions for fallen stock.
Guidelines for Temporary Storage Bins
If you opt for bins during times of high mortality, keep these guidelines in mind:
- Cleanliness: Your bins must be kept clean and disinfected at all times.
- Lids: Ensure all bins have lids to prevent access by birds or other animals.
- Leakproof Design: Bins should be leakproof to avoid any potential contamination from fluids seeping out.
These measures will help maintain hygiene while waiting for collection services like Martlands Fallen Stock Collection Service.
Choosing a Collection Service
When selecting a service provider like Martlands Fallen Stock Collection Service, consider their reputation and compliance with local regulations. It’s advisable to check if they have appropriate licenses and certifications required by law.
Benefits of Using Professional Services
Utilising professional services offers several benefits:
- Expertise: Trained professionals understand how to handle fallen stock safely.
- Efficiency: They can often provide quicker collection times compared to arranging transport yourself.
- Compliance Assurance: Professional services ensure adherence to all legal requirements regarding disposal methods.
Dealing with fallen stock can be distressing but understanding your responsibilities can alleviate some stress associated with it. By following our guide on the disposal of fallen stock, you ensure compliance with regulations while prioritising biosecurity on your farm.
Remember that burning or burying livestock is illegal; instead, make arrangements with approved transporters like Martlands Fallen Stock Collection Service promptly after an animal’s death occurs on your farm. By taking immediate action—preventing access by other animals and using temporary storage solutions—you can manage this challenging aspect of farming responsibly.
In summary, being proactive about disposal methods not only protects your farm but also contributes positively towards public health standards in agriculture. Stay informed about best practices in livestock management so you can focus more on what truly matters—caring for your healthy herd!
Contact us today on 01704 776977 for more information on how we can help with the disposal of fallen stock and animal by-products efficiently and responsibly.
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