Press Release
From: Independent Cattlemen of Nebraska
Contact Person: Linda Wuebben, Communications Director, 402-357-3778 or CEO Louis Day, 402-376-1538
Email: [email protected]
Date: December, 2008
Biosecurity Lab Will Be Moved to Kansas
The Independent Cattlemen of Nebraska (ICON) are very disappointed that the Department of Homeland Security is still considering moving the Biosecurity Research Lab from the isolated Plum Island Facility, located offshore four miles east of Long Island, New York.
The Plum Island lab has conducted research on diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease for over 50 years. Its location has helped avoid potential outbreaks like the recent one in England, where thousands of livestock had to be destroyed following an outbreak at a research lab. The animals were culled to contain the infectious disease.
The Bush administration acknowledged earlier this year that there have been accidents at the Plum Island lab, but these incidents were contained due to the facility’s remoteness and natural barriers.
ICON feels it is irresponsible for Homeland Security, the USDA, or APHIS to consider moving the lab to Kansas, especially since the proposed location is near the center of the largest concentration of livestock feeding in the country.
ICON strongly believes that Plum Island remains the best location for this much-needed but dangerous facility. Upgrading the existing Plum Island facility would better serve both consumers and the livestock industry.
"It is not a matter of if an accident will occur, but when," ICON stated.
About the Author: Louis Day is a rancher from Valentine, Nebraska. Mr. Day is the CEO of ICON and the Nebraska Membership Chair for R-CALF USA. For more information about Mr. Day or the Independent Cattlemen of Nebraska, please contact Louis Day at 402-376-1538 or visit www.independentcattlemen.com.
Independent Cattlemen of Nebraska
"Solid as a windmill. Always working for the independent producer."
The mission of the Independent Cattlemen of Nebraska (ICON) is to protect and promote the interests of Nebraska's independent cattle producers. The organization’s office is located in Hyannis, Nebraska, and membership can be obtained by calling (308) 458-7282.