Cattle producers are keeping a close watch on the threat of foreign animal diseases. National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President-elect Gene Copenhaver stressed the importance of preparedness. “I’m not sure we are prepared,” he admitted. “I think we need a better traceability program.” While current risk management programs help stabilize the industry, Copenhaver believes more can be done to protect against potential outbreaks. “If we do have a large outbreak of something that could affect the whole industry, we need a plan in place.”
