Preparing Your Farm for Flooding
By Ashley BrietenbachFebruary 12, 2020
A quick checklist and guide to ensuring your farm and livestock are prepared for flooding during the rainy season.
Preparing Your Farm for Flooding
It was almost one year ago that devastating floods hit the
Midwest destroying homes and thousands of acres of farmland in states like
Missouri, Nebraska, Iowa and Kansas. Many farmers lost their entire operation.
In preparing for another flood season, here are some tips to keep your land,
livestock and families safe.
Check your Insurance
Many insurance policies don't cover floods so make sure you
check your benefits. If you live in a flood plain, it might be a good idea to
invest in flood insurance.
Plan for your Livestock's Safety
If you can't transport your livestock to higher ground, have
a plan in place to give them the best chance for survival. Before you evacuate,
open your gates to allow them to migrate to higher ground. Also, leave fresh
water and food in a place they can access it.
Keep Extra Supplies on Hand
Sandbags are a must to protect your property from flooding.
However, it's important to have other supplies like hand tools, rope, fire
extinguishers and generators on hand for circumstances beyond your control like
loss of power, fires or being able to secure items from drifting away.
Prepare Household Items
Check your sump pump to make sure it's working correctly and
if you don't have one, install one. Consider putting any appliances on
platforms to reduce the possibility of damage. Also, store important, smaller
items in metal or plastic containers that can float and keep your things dry.
Make an Evacuation Plan
Have an emergency plan in place for you and your family (as well as any workers you may have on your farm). This includes having an evacuation route, assigned duties to who prepares/does what, copies of emergency numbers and an inventory of livestock and other supplies.
Most importantly, don't ever assume it won't happen to you. Be prepared to evacuate and follow through with your plans. If you have questions, reach out to your local extension office.
United Country Real Estate has experts across the country
who can help you find prime farmland that will set you up for success.
Visit www.UnitedCountry.com to
learn more and to find a farmland expert near you.
Sources:
https://www.agriculture.com/news/business/6-tips-to-prepare-your-farm-for-a-flood