Managing deadstock

By Gary Sliworsky
OMAFRA Rep.

Managing deadstock is an inevitable product of raising livestock. Disposing of deadstock takes time and money. The key issues regarding deadstock include public health, perception, economics, and environmental protection. Deadstock disposal concerns go far beyond just deciding which method is most convenient.
Improper disposal of deadstock poses risks to environmental quality, animal health (in terms of contagious diseases and biosecurity concerns) and public health, which includes the farm family. Also improper disposal of livestock and poultry mortalities is a sensitive public issue.
The Dead Animal Disposal Act (DADA) was created in the 1960’s to prevent meat from dead livestock from entering the human food chain. The legislation includes only cattle, horses, swine, sheep and goats, and has received only minor changes since that time.
Under this Act, all dead cattle, pigs, sheep, goats and horses must be disposed of within 48 hours after death, in one of three approved methods:
·removal through a licensed deadstock collection service (not available in our area)
·composting under 60 cm (2 ft) of organic substrate, such as sawdust or straw
·burial under 60 cm (2 ft) of soil and away from all waterways
A review of the DADA is underway. The Ontario ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and the Ministry of the Environment propose to replace the Dead Animal Disposal Act with two new regulations. The Nutrient Management Act will address the on farm disposal of dead animals. The Food Safety and Quality Act will address the off farm disposal of deadstock.
To review the actual proposed regulations go to the Environmental Registry (EBR) website at www.ebr.gov.on.ca and enter the following Registry Number: 010 - 4842 or search the current proposals on the Regulatory Registry website at www.ontariocanada.com/registry.
A summary document will also be posted on the OMAFRA website: http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/livestock/deadstock/facts/sum_oct08.htm
Please ensure that your comments are received prior to December 5, 2008 in writing and that they reference the EBR Registry number 010 - 4842.
The contact information for submitting comments is Yves Tremblay, Policy Advisor, OMAFRA, 77 Grenville Street, Floor 11, Toronto, ON M5S 1B3 Fax: 416-326-9892 or you can make an on line submission on the EBR website.
We are interested in your input to help us finalize the regulations that minimizes burden while maintaining food safety and environmental protection.

Dates to Remember
Nov. 25 – 26 – Large animal clinic dates for Dr. Dan Matyasovszky. Call 807-475-3837 to book an appointment.