The Florida Cattlemen’s Association (FCA) staff wants ranchers and producers across the state to be ready for the arrival of Hurricane Ian. FCA notes the storm will impact Florida, and in anticipation of potential issues that may arise, they have been working with State Governmental officials to set forth a number of emergency declarations, exemptions, waivers etc. pertaining to the movement of livestock.
This includes issues regarding transportation:
- Florida DOT Emergency Order, Emergency Road Use Permit Letter (Size and Weight waiver etc), Enforcement Bulletin
- FEMA Emergency Declaration
- Animal Movement Waiver
More about the waivers and other Hurricane Information can found on the FCA website.
There are also a variety of industry event cancellations:
- Livestock Sales for the week of September 26 are cancelled at the Livestock Markets located in Ocala, Arcadia, Okeechobee, and Webster.
- Markets in Lakeland, Columbia County, and Madison are having their sales at the time of this posting. It may be wise to contact the markets directly for confirmation.
- Florida Cracker Cattle Gathering and Auction postponed until October 28 and 29, 2022
- Melvin Adams Farms Bred Heifer Sale Moved to October 7th.
- UF/IFAS Extension Polk & Hillsborough Counties have elected to postpone the Pasture & Grazing Management Seminar that was scheduled for Thursday, September 29th, 2022. Details will be provided as soon as a new date is set, we expect to reschedule for October.
FCA hopes that you and your operations are all able to weather the storm this week through proper preparation and diligence through this natural disaster. The staff and volunteer leaders of the FCA will work hard in the days and weeks to come to help meet any storm related needs of their members and the Florida Cattle Industry.