One-Third of Dairy Farms Skip Regular Biosecurity Reviews, Survey Finds

# One-Third of Dairy Farms Skip Regular Biosecurity Reviews, Survey Finds New research released at the [MILK Business Conference](https://events.farmjournal.com/milk-business-conference-2025) reveals that U.S. dairy farmers remain more reactive than proactive when it comes to biosecurity—a concerning finding as disease threats like H5N1 avian influenza and New World screwworm continue to challenge the industry. The study, conducted by [Farm Journal](https://www.farmjournal.com/) and presented by [Dairy Herd Management](https://www.dairyherd.com/news/dairy-production/wake-call-dairy-new-research-exposes-stagnant-biosecurity-efforts), surveyed more than 300 dairy producers to examine trends and vulnerabilities in biosecurity practices nationwide. --- ## Key Finding: Biosecurity Plans Aren't Keeping Pace While **68% of farms with at least 250 dairy cows** report having a biosecurity plan in place, the research uncovered a troubling pattern: **34% admit they do not review their plans regularly**. "We need biosecurity efforts to be more impactful at the ground level," says Kirk Ramsey, Neogen's professional services veterinarian. "Not only to prevent major outbreaks, but to even protect employees and families from the things being taken home every day." On a positive note, **72% of larger dairy operations** report they are currently making improvements to their biosecurity protocols. These improvements are being driven by: - Recent on-farm or neighboring farm disease outbreaks - Veterinarian recommendations - Government or regulatory authority guidelines --- ## Farm Security Basics Are Being Neglected The survey uncovered significant gaps in fundamental farm security measures: - **20%+ of dairies** don't secure access to barns and animal housing - **16%** fail to monitor or restrict visitor access - **67%** don't use camera surveillance (only 33% have it in place) - **38%** don't control or limit access to feed storage areas These basic measures form the foundation of effective biosecurity, yet substantial portions of the industry are leaving these gaps unaddressed. --- ## Hygiene and Herd Health: Room for Improvement When it comes to daily practices, the research found: - **72%** of larger dairy operations have hand-washing stations as part of their biosecurity protocol - **75%** use separate equipment for handling feed and manure - More than **50%** use technology like herd activity monitoring systems to identify sick animals While these numbers are encouraging, experts say there's still significant room for improvement in daily hygiene and health protocols across the industry. --- ## Training Remains Reactive, Not Proactive Perhaps most concerning is the approach to biosecurity education: - **32%** of farms provide training only in response to biosecurity issues - **30%** conduct quarterly biosecurity meetings - Many farms lack consistent, proactive staff education programs "Biosecurity on dairy farms is a continuous process that requires proactive updates and employee education to keep pace with evolving disease threats," says Jamie Jonker, Ph.D., Chief Science Officer with National Milk Producers Federation. He points to resources like the **National Dairy FARM Program**, which offers comprehensive biosecurity materials, evaluation tools, and certified evaluators who can draft tailored plans and guide training. --- ## Cybersecurity: An Emerging Blind Spot As farms become increasingly technology-dependent, cybersecurity is becoming another critical consideration. The survey found that **only 29% of farmers** have collaborated with cybersecurity experts to protect their farm systems and data. With more dairy operations relying on interconnected systems for herd management, milk monitoring, and automated feeding, protecting digital infrastructure is an emerging need that many farms haven't yet addressed. --- ## Expert Recommendations: Simple Steps Can Make a Difference Kirk Ramsey emphasizes that effective biosecurity doesn't require extreme measures: "I believe there are some misconceptions around what biosecurity looks like. For many, it's thought of as Tyvek suits and face masks, not clean boots and coveralls, and shower-in-shower-out facilities, not limited-farm entry." He notes that there are simple ways to incorporate biosecurity into every operation, and experts throughout the industry are developing innovative solutions to address the complexities of cattle management. --- ## What This Means for Dairy Producers The research serves as a pivotal reminder that biosecurity is not a one-time task but a dynamic, ongoing process demanding continuous review and proactive management. Key takeaways include: 1. **Review your biosecurity plan** at least annually—if you haven't updated it recently, now is the time 2. **Address basic security gaps** like visitor access, surveillance, and feed area controls 3. **Invest in training** that's proactive rather than reactive 4. **Consider cybersecurity** as part of your overall farm protection strategy 5. **Leverage available resources** like the National Dairy FARM Program for guidance and evaluation tools As disease pressures like H5N1 and New World screwworm continue to threaten the industry, a reactive or static approach to biosecurity is no longer sufficient. --- *Source: Research by [Farm Journal](https://www.farmjournal.com/), presented at the [2025 MILK Business Conference](https://events.farmjournal.com/milk-business-conference-2025). Original reporting by Karen Bohnert for [Dairy Herd Management](https://www.dairyherd.com/news/dairy-production/wake-call-dairy-new-research-exposes-stagnant-biosecurity-efforts).* *For more dairy industry news and best practices, visit the [Therio Education Center](/education-center).*