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Livestock “rescuing” poses threats to farmers and biosecurity

The Animal Agriculture Alliance is cautioning livestock farmers about the threat of animal activists “rescuing” animals from large farms.

Manager of Issues and Engagement Abby Kornegay tells Brownfield members of Direct Action Everywhere have been in several ongoing trials.

“This cut and dry theft, but this has really gained them a lot of momentum,” she explains.  “They went on a kind of a cross-country trip, teaching people about this right to rescue, how to break into farms, how to steal animals.”

Kornegay says that organization has also released an investigation manual on their tactics for other extremists to follow.

“That’s a huge threat,” she says.  “A lot of farmers live on their property, biosecurity is a huge risk. Activist groups are not really wearing the appropriate PPE when they come to your farm to steal animals.”

She says fencing, no-trespassing signs, cameras, and good lighting can help keep farms safe, but owners also need to be proactive in creating relationships with local law enforcement. 

Being transparent on social media and with community members Kornegay says can help increase the transparency of added security measures.

Direct Action Everywhere’s CEO was found guilty in a California court of conspiracy and trespassing following protests on two poultry farms in 2019.  He was recently sentenced to 90 days in jail and probation.

Brownfield interviewed Kornegay during the recent NAFB Convention.