Ecuador livestock sector receives El Niño preparedness recommendations

Ecuador's National Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (MAGP), has released a series of recommendations for the livestock sector. These measures are part of a contingency plan to address the potential presence of the El Niño phenomenon.

Key recommendations for livestock producers include developing and updating contingency and evacuation plans for animals. They are also advised to identify and prepare safe, elevated areas for temporary cattle relocation in case of floods. Minister of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Juan Carlos Vega, emphasized the importance of preventive actions due to El Niño's potential to cause extreme weather changes, impacting animal health and productivity.

Additional measures recommended by the MAGP involve ensuring a consistent supply of clean water and adequate feed through strategic storage of forages and supplements. Producers should implement grazing rotation systems and conserve fodder reserves. Maintaining preventive vaccination, deworming, and health control programs is also crucial. Regular hoof inspections and monitoring for diseases associated with excess moisture are advised, along with strengthening biosecurity measures on farms and in breeding centers. The MAGP also urged a review and reinforcement of stables, corrals, roofs, and shelters to withstand heavy rains and strong winds.

The ministry also recommended implementing animal identification systems, such as ear tagging and updated records, to facilitate livestock movement and control. Proper management of animal waste and carcasses is essential to prevent disease outbreaks. Producers are encouraged to seek training on livestock management during climate emergencies. Furthermore, coordination mechanisms with relevant authorities should be established for timely epidemiological surveillance and health care.

Finally, producers are urged to stay informed via bulletins from the National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (Inamhi), the Regional Study Committee of the El Niño Phenomenon (Erfen), and the National Risk Management Secretariat. The MAGP stated that complete technical recommendations and updated information are available through its official channels and national district offices, providing producers with guidance and technical assistance.

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it is important to adopt preventive measures because the El Niño phenomenon can generate extreme changes in climatic conditions, affecting the health and productivity of animals.