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Farmers Should Shelter Livestock

The State Emergency Response team reports that there has been a small release of radioactivity from the Harris Nuclear Plant. Livestock owners in Lee County should quickly move their livestock from pastures to protected shelters.
If sufficient manmade shelters, such as barns and sheds, are not available, natural shelters, such as wooded lots, culverts and ravines will provide some protection.
Animals used for milk production should be given first priority in sheltering. Ventilation fans in shelters should not be used unless. If ventilation is absolutely necessary, the system should be set on the lowest level possible.
Animals should be fed on stored feed and water. Feed and water supplies should be brought into the buildings if possible. Feed that must be left outside should be covered with plastic or canvas to protect it from contamination. As much water as possible should be stored for livestock. Also, wells and open tanks should be covered.

It may be possible for those in evacuated areas to return home for short periods to check on livestock and replenish food and water. Provisions for such visits would need to be made with Cooperative Extension Service agents that are part of the County Emergency Operations Center.

Authorities will continue to monitor the situation and will announce when livestock can be taken off stored feed and water.

THIS IS AN EXERCISE MESSAGE