Merced County Developing Livestock Pass Program

Merced County is currently developing* a Livestock Pass program for use during emergency situations. The purpose of creating a county-based "Livestock Pass" program is to provide a uniform way of identifying vetted commercial livestock producer owner-operators and managers to firefighting personnel, California Highway Patrol officers, Sheriff's deputies, other law enforcement officers, and other emergency personnel. Possession of a Livestock Pass during a wildfire or a similar disaster may allow the rancher limited emergency access to restricted areas for the purposes of: (1) Feed, water, or care for livestock sheltering in-place or (2) Evacuate livestock. The Livestock Pass shall not be used to obtain emergency access to care for pets, collect household items or for any purpose other than those specifically stated above. Access to restricted areas will be at the discretion of emergency personnel and possession of a Livestock Pass will not guarantee access to restricted areas.

We are looking for feedback from interested stakeholders to assist us in the development of this program within the requirements of Section 2350, Division 2, Chapter 4, of the California Food and Agricultural Code. Once developed, this program will be brought before the Merced County Board of Supervisors for approval. After establishment by the Board, applications will be accepted, and mandatory training will be held prior to issuance of the livestock pass. County departments, law and fire protection agencies, and other Merced County agriculturally related entities will assist in the development and initiation of this program.

We are currently seeking your comment and feedback on the development of the program and two draft documents: (1) Merced County Livestock Pass Program and (2) Merced County Livestock Pass Application. Comments can be submitted by email to [email protected].Additionally, two in-person opportunities to hear a brief introduction of the program and provide feedback will be provided at the following location and times:

- Please RSVP in advance to [email protected] or (209) 385-7431. -

* Information concerning the development of this program will be updated regularly.

Draft Documents

Related Resources