The focus this past week was storm Hanna. Now eyes are on Hurricanes Ike and Josephine.

In readiness for Hanna, agriculture officials in North and South Carolina urged readiness on the farm. With prospects of either Ike or Josephine being more powerful storms than Hanna, the message remains.

N.C. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler on Wednesday urged farmers to have backup plans for electricity in tobacco curing barns and emergency feed for cattle and other animal herds. The same applies

Troxler said generators would help farmers keep critical farm buildings operating. He said there was no guarantee that state-owned generators would be available for farms.

In Columbia, Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh E. Weathers urged residents to plan ahead for their animals’ needs.

Weathers says people should not wait until an evacuation order is given to think about how they will deal with their livestock and other animals. Food, water, shelter and possibly relocating animals are a top concern for animal and livestock owners.

“I encourage everyone to plan ahead to ensure their animals, both large and small, do not become victims of a storm,” Weathers said. “There are some valuable resources available for anyone who needs assistance for their emergency plans.”

The South Carolina Department of Agriculture offers several tips for residents to think about while planning for a hurricane or any natural disaster.

* Ensure animal vaccinations and other health requirements up to date.

* If possible, make arrangements in advance for evacuation of horses.

* Make sure trailers for carrying animals are current on maintenance.

* Keep food and potable water on hand.

* Ensure livestock food stays dry. Wet food is no good for animals.

* Carry animal health and vaccination records with you during an evacuation.

For information on evacuating livestock, contact Mary Ellen Tobias, S.C. Department of Agriculture, 803-734-2210, or visit www.agriculture.sc.gov and click on Livestock Emergencies.

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