EMERGENCY CARCASS MANAGEMENT 

DESK REFERENCE GUIDE

 JUNE 2017
Contents

Applicability Statement..................................................................................................................................................I

Acknowledgements.........................................................................................................................................................II

USDA Response Process ................................................................................................................................................III

SECTION 1: RESPONSE PROCESS

Operations Procedures.............................................................................................................................................1-1

SECTION 2: DECISION TOOL

Information Needed for Carcass Management Decisions..............................................................................2-1

Definitions ...................................................................................................................................................................2-2

HPAI Carcass Management Decision Tool..........................................................................................................2-4

Carcass Management Decision Cycle..................................................................................................................2-7

Carcass Management Options Checklist............................................................................................................2-8

SECTION 3: IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

Overview of In-House Composting Process .......................................................................................................3-1

Carcass Management: In-house Composting Checklist .................................................................................3-2

Job Aid: Overview of the HPAI Composting Process .......................................................................................3-3

Finding Carbon Source: What to Say When Calling Potential Vendors.......................................................3-5

Carbon Sources for Windrow Construction........................................................................................................3-7

Pre-Compost Windrows for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks.........................................................................3-8

Windrow Construction Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks ..........................................................3-9

Compost Windrow Construction Approval Checklistfor Avian Influenza Infected Flocks.....................3-11

Temperature Monitoring Protocol of Avian Influenza Infected Flocks.........................................................3-13

Calibration of Analog Thermometers...................................................................................................................3-15

Phase 1 Windrow Evaluation Checklist Days 1–14 for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks ...........................3-17

Phase 2 Windrow Evaluation Checklist Days 14–28 for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks.......................3-19

Planning for In-house Poultry Composting .........................................................................................................3-21

Operations for In-house or Outdoor Poultry Composting ..............................................................................3-22

Procedures for In-House Composting of AI-Infected Poultry Carcasses....................................................3-24

SECTION 4: OUTDOOR COMPOSTING

Carcass Management: Outdoor Composting Checklist..................................................................................4-1

Planning for Outdoor Composting for Livestock Other than Poultry ...........................................................4-3

Operations for Outdoor Composting for Livestock other than Poultry .......................................................4-4

Procedures for Outdoor Composting of AI-Infected Poultry Carcasses .....................................................4-7

SECTION 5: OPEN BURNING

Carcass Management: Open Air Burning Checklist.........................................................................................5-1

Procedure for Open Air Burning of AI Infected Poultry Carcasses ...............................................................5-2

SOP: Open Air Burning.............................................................................................................................................5-3

SECTION 6: BURIAL

Carcass Management: On-Site Burial Checklist................................................................................................6-1

Burial Effect on Environment...................................................................................................................................6-2

Land Area or Excavation Volume Required for Trench Burial .........................................................................6-3

SOP: Unlined Burial ...................................................................................................................................................6-5
SECTION 7: MOBILE TREATMENT

Carcass Management: Mobile Treatment Checklist ........................................................................................7-1

Overview of Mobile Treatment Technologies.....................................................................................................7-2

SECTION 8: LANDFILLS

Carcass Management: Off-Site Permitted Landfill Checklist.........................................................................8-1

Landfill Disposal Guidance—Recommended Waste Acceptance Practices for Landfills .......................8-2

CDC Interim Guidance for Landfill Workers in the United States Disposing of Poultry Carcasses 

During Outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza ................................................................................8-6

SOP: Landfilling ..........................................................................................................................................................8-10

SECTION 9: RENDERING

Carcass Management: Rendering Checklist.......................................................................................................9-1

SOP: Rendering...........................................................................................................................................................9-2

SOP: Transport............................................................................................................................................................9-4

Example Rendering Plant Biosecurity Protocol ..................................................................................................9-6

SECTION 10: INCINERATORS

Carcass Management: Off-Site Incineration Checklist....................................................................................10-1

SOP: Fixed Incineration.............................................................................................................................................10-2

SOP: Air-Curtain Incineration.................................................................................................................................10-4

SECTION 11: SECURE TRANSPORT

Loading Procedures ...................................................................................................................................................11-1

Permit Requirements ................................................................................................................................................11-4

Overview of the Eight Steps in Interstate Permitted Movement...................................................................11-5

Transport Methods in Order of Risk and Containment Types and Risk.......................................................11-6

SECTION 12: BIOSECURITY

Safety, Health & Environmental Protection.........................................................................................................12-1

Personal Protective Equipment ..............................................................................................................................12-3

PPE Requirements......................................................................................................................................................12-4

Go-Bag Checklist .......................................................................................................................................................12-5

Temporary Vehicle Wash Station Draft Standard Operating Procedure .....................................................12-7

Work Zones and Control Areas..............................................................................................................................12-9

Ready Reference Guide—Overview of Zones.....................................................................................................12-12

SECTION 13: REFERENCES

HPAI—A Guide To Help You Understand the Response Process..................................................................13-1

FEMA Recovery Division Factsheet—Debris Removal Authorities of Federal Agencies ........................13-4

National Veterinary Stockpile: Ready for Animal Disease Emergencies .....................................................13-11

The National Veterinary Stockpile and the 24 Hour Push Pack.....................................................................13-13

The National Veterinary Stockpile and 3D Response Support Services......................................................13-15

Producer Information Sheet: USDA AI Response: Mass Depopulation and Carcass Disposal .............13-17

Timeline, Eligibility, and Approval for Restocking..............................................................................................13-21

SECTION 14: APPENDICES

Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks............................................................14-I-2

Landfills and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Response .............................................................14-II-1

National Renderers Association Directory..........................................................................................................14-III-1

Permitted Movement................................................................................................................................................14-IV-1

University of Minnesota Risk Assessment..........................................................................................................14-V-1
I

Applicability Statement

This guide is intended to be used by the Disposal 

Group Supervisor or designee on a USDA APHIS 

Incident Management Team during an animal health 

emergency response.

Contact the National Incident Coordination Group 

Disposal Technical Specialist for additional guidance 

(see current Incident Action Plan).
II

Acknowledgements

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Elizabeth Clark 

Nicola L. Ritter, MEd, PhD

Jodi Korich, DVM

Danelle Weaver

Michelle Wiederhold, MEd

CONTENT AUTHOR

Lori P. Miller, PE

Senior Staff Officer/Environmental Engineer

USDA-APHIS

4700 River Road, Unit 41, Room 5D-03.2

Riverdale, MD 20737

301-851-3512

CREATIVE TEAM

Suzanne Kabat

Vince Chihak

Tim Ponder

Dan Shuta

REVIEWERS

Joanna Davis, DVM

Tyler McAlpin, DVM, MS

Julie Gauthier, DVM, MPH

The compilation of the Disposal Guidebook was a collaborative effort. Many individuals 

contributed their time and talents to this project. We wish to thank the following 

people who made this manual possible:

This guidebook was compiled by Texas A&M University, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical 

Sciences through a cooperative agreement with the United States Department of Agriculture, under 

Agreement No. 15-9100-1492-CA. 
III

USDA Response Process

Carcass Management

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Detection and 

Quarantine

Premises

suspected of

having foreign 

animal disease 

may be placed 

under standstill 

notice or hold order 

by the State.

Samples are

submitted to NVSL

and State NAHLN

lab. 

Animal appraisal

process is initiated;

prior to depopulation,

every attempt should

be made to collect

inventory and other

data for indemnity so

that fair market value

can be paid for the

animals.

Appraisal and 

Compensation

Within 24-hours of a 

presumptive positive (case 

definition), animals will be

depopulated to limit 

the spread of the 

pathogen and further 

environmental 

contamination. 

Depopulation

Carcass 

Management

Based on the facility,

location, housing, and

other factors, carcasses

are managed using

one or more methods:

composting, burial,

incineration, rendering,

or landfilling. Get state 

environmental agency 

written approval of 

selected option(s).

Pathogen

Elimination

Pathogen must be eliminated 

from barn, equipment, and

all affected areas of the

farm. Methods will be sitespecific based on Incident 

Command guidance and

preference of producers. 

Required 

environmental 

samples are 

collected and tested

to confirm that the

virus is gone before 

further steps are 

taken to reestablish 

production. Testing

USDA and State officials

must approve restocking;

after approval, producers

can restock their facilities

from an disease negative

source and resume

production.

Restocking

Maintain 

Biosecurity

At all times, and

especially after

restocking, the 

owner maintains the 

highest biosecurity 

standards to protect 

their animals. For

biosecurity tips, go to

www.aphis.usda.gov/

fadprep.

Note: NAHLN = National Animal Health Laboratory Network;

NVSL = National Veterinary Services Laboratories.

Source: United States Department of Agriculture
1-1

SECTION 1 Response Process

Operations Procedures

OPERATIONAL TIMELINE FOR DISPOSAL

QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL

DEMOBILIZATION

Perform disposal as approved 

by the state environmental 

agency, ensuring all regulations 

are followed.

Remove miscellaneous debris, equipment, excess materials, 

disposal byproducts, and other waste in accordance with 

the Site Specific Disposal Plan.

Promptly discuss significant 

impacts to the schedule with 

the Operations Chief.

Leave the facility in broom-clean condition 

in preparation for subsequent activities.

Ensure the rate of depopulation 

does not exceed the rate of 

storage and disposal to avoid 

attracting vectors.

Step 1: Monitor disposal 

operations at the frequency 

specified by the Disposal 

Group Supervisor.

Step 5: Follow finalized 

disposal procedures to expedite 

outbreak control and minimize 

environmental contamination.

SITE/CASE MANAGER DISPOSAL GROUP SUPERVISOR

Step 2: Verify that all activities 

are in accordance with the 

Site Specific Disposal Plan 

and all applicable regulatory 

approval or permit conditions.

Step 3: Take immediate action 

to rectify significant deviations

 from the approved plan or 

state/federal environmental 

regulations.

Step 4: Gain approval to change 

the plan if the deviations are 

needed to accommodate field 

conditions from Operations 

Chief or state environmental 

officials.

Ensure state environmental agency has approved disposal method in writing (see list of state contacts

available at go.usdatraining.com/agencies).

Developed by Texas A&M University Source: USDA FADPReP Disposal SOP go.usdatraining.com/SOP_disposal
2-1

SECTION

2 Decision Tools

Name	of	FacilityUSDA	Case	Manager	Name	and	Cell:Disposal	Team	Leader	Name	and	numberEuthanasia	Team	Leader	Name	and	numberBest	Airport	to	Fly	Into:#	Hours	from	airport	to	premises:Depopulation	Date:Disposal	Method	(approved	by	state	environmental	agency.		If	no	method	identified,	use	MLCh	tool	and	get	state	environmental	agency	approval):If	Composting,	who	will	build	piles	(farmer	or	need	us	to	contract)?Barn	No.

Ceiling	

Height Width	 Length

Door	

Height	and	

Width Type	of	Barn Type	of	Operation

No.	

Animals

Type/Age	

of	Animal Avg.	Wt.

Depth	of	

Litter

12345

Fresh	Bedding	Available	on	Premises:Pile	No. Height Length Width

12345

Acres	availalbe	for	burial:Source:	L.P.Miller,	USDA	(2015)

Y/N:		Type	=	

Attach	sketch	of	premises	with	following	information:Acres	available	for	composting:

Comments:		

Information Needed for Carcass Management Decisions

Address:
DECISION TOOLS

2-2

Definitions

Biomass The total quantity or weight of livestock/poultry carcasses and associated biodegradable 

material requiring management.

Capacity Equal to throughput times availability where throughput is the amount of biomass that can 

be processed per day per system and availability is the number of systems available.

Composting A natural biological decomposition process that takes place in the presence of oxygen (air). 

Composting process control parameters include the initial ratios of carbon and nitrogen rich 

materials, the amount of bulking agent added to assure air porosity, the pile size, 

moisture content, and turning frequency. 

Depopulation (also known as culling, destruction, and/or euthanasia) is a method by which large 

numbers of diseased and/or suffering animals are killed quickly and efficiently with as much 

consideration given to the welfare of the animals as practicable. It may be practiced during an 

animal health emergency, such as a major disease outbreak to eliminate animal suffering or 

help prevent or mitigate the spread of the disease through the elimination of infected, exposed, or potentially exposed animals. It also serves to remove contaminated livestock from 

the food supply, protect the nation‘s agricultural and national economy, and safeguard public 

health. Animals should not be depopulated until a disposal plan is in place.

Grinding An operation that reduces biomass particle size. Grinding implies that particles are broken 

apart largely by smashing and crushing rather than tearing or slicing.

Groundwater Water below the land surface in a zone of saturation.

Leachate Any liquid material that drains from land, waste, or stockpiled material and contains 

significantly elevated concentrations of contamination derived from the material that it 

has passed through.

Off-site 

(Fixed-facility) 

incinerators 

Include (a) small on-farm incinerators, (b) small and large incineration facilities, (c) 

crematoria, and (d) power plant incinerators. Unlike open-air burning and air-curtain 

incineration, fixed-facility incineration is wholly contained and, usually, highly controlled.

On-site Burial In the context of this document refers to excavating a trench or pit into the earth, placing 

carcasses in the trench, and covering with the excavated material (backfill).

Open-air burning Includes burning carcasses (a) in open fields, (b) on combustible heaps called pyres, and (c) 

with other burning techniques that are unassisted by incineration equipment. 

Pathogens Any organism capable of producing disease or infection

Permitted 

Landfills 

Modern Subtitle D landfills that are highly regulated operations, engineered and built with 

technically complex systems specifically designed to protect the environment and include 

liners and leachate controls. These landfills are distinguished from older landfills in the U.S. 

(sometimes called small arid landfills) which were constructed before Subtitle D regulations 

were effective, and therefore were not constructed with sophisticated containment systems. 

Premises Geographically and epidemiologically defined locations, including a ranch, farm, stable, or 

other establishment.
DECISION TOOLS

2-3

Pyres Structures, usually made of wood, for burning carcasses.

Rendering The process by which purified fat and protein products are recovered from inedible 

portions of animals by cooking at high temperatures.

Slaughter The killing of an animal or animals for human consumption.

Stamping out The depopulation of clinically affected and in-contact susceptible animals.

Waste loosely defined as material that cannot be used for its intended purpose. 

Vaccination 

to Live 

The depopulation of clinically affected and in-contact susceptible animals and vaccination of 

at-risk animals, without subsequent depopulation of vaccinated animals. 

Vaccination 

to Slaughter 

The depopulation of clinically affected and in-contact susceptible animals and vaccination of 

at-risk animals, with subsequent depopulation of vaccinated animals.
DECISION TOOLS

2-4

HPAI Carcass Management Decision Tool

Matrix, Decision Loop, Checklist (MLCh)

Developed by USDA APHIS in collaboration with the DHS S&T Depopulation, Disposal, and Decontamination (3D) 

Program and federal interagency 3D Integrated Product Team (IPT)

CONTACT:

Lori.p.miller@aphis.usda.gov

Lori P. Miller, PE

USDA APHIS 

4700 River Road, Unit 41, Room 5D-03.2

Riverdale, MD 20737

301-851-3512

APHIS website for training modules and online interactive tool: go.usdatraining.com/Disposal
DECISION TOOLS

2-5

Weighting Criteria Off-Site 

Landfill Rendering Off-Site 

Incineration Composting Open Air 

Burning

On-Site 

Burial

Most 

Important

(x3)

Pubic Health Risk1 9 9 9 9 6 3

Biosecurity2 6 6 6 3 3 3

Pathogen 

Inactivation3 3 6 9 6 9 3

Environmentally 

Sustainable4 9 9 9 9 3 3

Important

(x2)

Need to Transport 

Carcasses Offsite5 2 2 2 6 6 6

Volume Reduction6 4 6 6 4 6 4

Availability7 6 4 2 4 4 4

Throughput8 6 6 2 4 4 4

Speed to 

Implement9 6 4 4 4 4 4

Public Acceptance10 6 4 6 4 2 4

Less 

Important

(x1)

Cost Effectiveness11 3 2 1 1 1 3

Efficiency12 3 3 3 2 1 2

Operability13 3 3 3 2 1 3

Regulatory 

limitations14 2 3 2 2 1 1

Denial of use15 3 2 2 2 2 1

Total Points 71 69 66 62 53 48

Average Score 4.7 4.6 4.4 4.1 3.5 3.2

Color Key and Matrix Explanation

IDEAL Green technologies 

were scored 3 points

NOT

IDEAL

Yellow technologies 

were scored 2 points

NOT

SUITABLE

Red technologies 

were scored 1 point

Scores were weighted according to the importance of the criteria. Scores for each column were totaled 

then averaged to obtain the ranking.

Developed by USDA APHIS in collaboration with the DHS S&T Depopulation, Disposal, and Decontamination (3D) Program and federal interagency 3D Integrated Product Team (IPT)
DECISION TOOLS

2-6

Matrix Footnotes

Mobile, new, or innovative technologies are not included in this matrix, but a separate table for such technologies is under 

development.

Values in matrix may be incident specific.

1. Public health risk – based on the UK 2001 human health qualitative risk assessment which excluded 

composting and mobile technologies. The rankings are consistent with the public health risks tabulated by 

the United Kingdom (UK) Department of Health (now the Department for Environment, Food and Rural 

Affairs), in “A Rapid Qualitative Assessment of possible risks to Public Health from current Foot & Mouth Disposal 

Options, Main Report,” June 2001. 

2. Biosecurity – if process can be contained and easily disinfected = 3, if process is somewhat contained, but 

the processing area is difficult to disinfect = 2, if process is not contained = 1 

3. Pathogen Inactivation – If process completely inactivates pathogen = 3, partial inactivation = 2, 

no inactivation = 1

4. Environmental sustainability – low risk of environmental contamination and useful end product = 3, low risk 

of contamination or useful end product = 2, risk of environmental contamination and no useful end product = 1

5. Transport carcasses offsite – Yes = 1, No = 3

6. Volume reduction – process reduces volume of biomass = 3, same volume = 2, increases volume = 1

7. Availability – option is widely available = 3, regional or somewhat available = 2, very limited availability = 1 

8. Throughput – the amount of biomass that can be processed per day. If >200K lbs/day = 3, between 200K 

lbs/day - 50K lbs/day = 2, <50K lbs/day = 1. Note: Throughput X Availability = Capacity

9. Speed to implement – how quickly can option begin taking first carcasses including obtaining regulatory 

approval where immediately = 3, <5 days = 2, more than 5 days = 1

10. Public acceptance – likelihood of public protests where low = 3, medium = 2, and high = 1

11. Cost effectiveness – cost to perform option from K State Carcass Disposal: A Comprehensive Review where 

<$100/ton = 3, $100/ton - $250/ton = 2, > $250/ton = 1

12. Efficiency – amount of inputs (utilities, chemicals, fuel, carbon source) to contain and stabilize biomass over 

a short period of time 

13. Operability – ease of implementation, for example simple to do, operators readily trained and available

14. Regulatory limitations – permits or regulator exemptions would have to be obtained in order to utilize this 

disposal method

15. Denial of use – land or equipment is no longer able to be used for its intended purpose due to disposal method 

Developed by USDA APHIS in collaboration with the DHS S&T Depopulation, Disposal, and Decontamination (3D) Program and federal interagency 3D Integrated Product Team (IPT)
DECISION TOOLS

2-7

Carcass Management Decision Cycle

1. Is in-house 

Composting feasible?

See checklist.

2. If not, is Outdoor 

Composting feasible? 

See checklist.

3. If not, is site 

suitable for 

Open Air Burning?

See checklist.

4. If not, is Onsite 

Burial permitted?

See checklist.

5. If not, are Mobile 

Technologies 

available? 

See checklist.

6. If not, are landfills 

available? 

See checklist.

7. If not, are 

rendering plants 

available? 

See checklist.

8. If not, are 

incinerators 

available? 

See checklist.

NOTE: The order of options in the Carcass Management Decision Cycle differs from the Matrix 

because on-site options are preferable to disease management officials.

For more 

information 

about all options, 

see APHIS online 

training modules: 

go.usdatraining.com/

Disposal_tree
DECISION TOOLS

2-8

Carcass Management Options Checklists

First Option - Is in-house composting feasible?

Based on the opinion of an animal mortality composting subject matter expert (SME) from the APHIS 

roster, are the site conditions suitable for in-house composting of the number of animals affected? 

 See USDA Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks (also at go.usdatraining.

com/HPAI)

 Poultry houses have sufficient interior space to maneuver composting equipment and construct 

windrows (e.g., enough open space and ceiling height to allow loaders to construct windrows 

6-8 feet high and 12 feet wide. Houses with columns, such as double-deck houses, restrict such

formations.)

 Poultry houses are located in an area that is accessible by trucks delivering carbon source and 

equipment removing compost

 Poultry houses can be secured against vandals, scavengers, and disease vectors such as wild birds

If the poultry houses are suitable, consider the duration of time it takes to fully compost and determine 

if the following issues can be overcome:

 Personnel required to ensure proper construction, maintenance, and temperature monitoring of 

windrows.

 Need for pest management.

 Denial of use of poultry houses while composting (at least 30 days).

If so, is there a sufficient local supply of carbon source such as wood chips (1-2 pounds carbon source 

per pound of biomass)?

 Check with local agencies and organizations to determine if stockpiles of carbon source are 

available (e.g., parks department and landfills). Ensure that the carbon source is free of any pests or 

pathogens which could threaten local species. (See Carbon Sources for Windrow Construction)

If so, have you arranged for the necessary personnel, equipment and supplies to be delivered to the site?

 Mortality composting subject matter expert

 Composting supplies and carbon source

 Personal protective equipment 

 Cleaning and disinfecting (biosecurity) supplies 

 Hand tools

 Heavy equipment (mid-size skid-steer loaders, tractors with bucket loaders) 

 Qualified equipment operators

If in-house composting is an option, see In-House Composting training module at go.usdatraining.com/

Disposal and implement composting. If not, continue to Second Option.

Clear Checklist
DECISION TOOLS

2-9

Second Option – Is outdoor composting feasible? 

Identify a suitable site on premises or in a centralized location in accordance with the checklist items below. 

 If off-site consider the need for secure transport

Based on approval of the state environmental agency and the composting SME from the APHIS roster, 

are the site conditions suitable for composting the number of animals affected? 

 See USDA Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks (also at go.usdatraining.

com/HPAI)

 Adequate land area to build compost piles (assume (237) 1000-pound cows per acre, (1,185) 

200-pound swine or sheep per acre, or (47,500) 5-pound poultry per acre). 

 Required distance from water wells, surface water bodies (lakes, streams, rivers, etc.), sinkholes, 

seasonal seeps or other landscape features that indicate the area is hydrologically sensitive, based 

on guidance from state environmental officials. 

 Consider all groundwater pathways including the presence of drain tiles, soil characteristics, depth 

to groundwater, use of groundwater etc. 

 Located away from neighbors and/or out of sight.

 Located downwind from neighbors and/or houses.

 Located away from environmentally-sensitive areas.

 Located close to the livestock or poultry facility or have clear access for transport.

 Clear of overhead utility lines.

 Void of excess water.

 Located on a gentle slope (1%-3%) so there will be no water ponding.

 Consider the need for an impermeable base and/or protective cover to prevent leachate generation 

and migration.

If the site is suitable, consider the duration of time it takes to fully compost and determine if the 

following issues can be overcome:

 Personnel required to ensure proper construction, maintenance, and temperature monitoring of 

windrows.

 Need for pest management.

 Potential for extreme weather (e.g., hurricane) to disturb pile.

 Denial of use of land area while composting (minimum 30 days).

If so, is there a sufficient local supply of carbon source such as wood chips (1-2 pounds carbon source 

per pound of biomass)?

 Check with local agencies and organizations to determine if stockpiles of carbon source are 

available (e.g., parks department and landfills). Ensure that the carbon source is free of any pests or 

pathogens which could threaten local species. See Carbon Sources for Windrow Construction.
DECISION TOOLS

2-10

If so, have you arranged for the necessary equipment and supplies to be delivered to the site?

 Personnel 

 Composting supplies and carbon source

 Personal protective equipment 

 Cleaning and disinfecting (biosecurity) supplies 

 Hand tools

 Heavy equipment (mid-size skid-steer loaders, tractors with bucket loaders, trucks, containers and 

covers if transporting, leak-resistant material for lining carcass transport containers) 

If composting is an option see Outdoor Composting training module at go.usdatraining.com/Disposal

and implement composting. If not, continue to Third Option.

Third Option - Is site suitable for open air burning? 

Will local and state agencies allow open burning at the site?

 Local Fire Department

 State Department of Agriculture, Animal Health

 State Department of Environment or Natural Resources 

 USDA-APHIS

 USEPA

Will open burning release air pollutants in excess of public health standards?

If so, can the permit conditions, such as measures to control the spread of fire, distance to occupied 

buildings etc. be met?

 What environmental testing (e.g., water, ash, soils) are required and at what frequency? 

 How and where would the ash be disposed of?

 Are weather conditions (e.g., wind and drought) suitable for open are burning?

If so, will burning be publically unacceptable?

If so, have you arranged for the necessary personnel, equipment and supplies to be delivered to the site?

 Adequate source of combustible material and fuel to keep the fire going. Verify that type of fuel is 

acceptable to regulatory agencies.

 Other equipment including mechanical chains and lifting equipment. 

 Personnel properly trained in the use of this equipment. 

 Fire safety equipment also should be readily available. 

 If open air burning is an option, see On-Site Treatment/Burial training module at go.usdatraining.com/

aphis_tools and implement on-site open air burning. If not, continue to Fourth Option.
DECISION TOOLS

2-11

Fourth Option - Is site suitable for on-site burial? 

Will state environmental agency permit burial at the site?

 Consider soil suitability (see USDA NRCS online Web Soil Survey at go.usdatraining.com/WSS

based on guidance from state environmental officials?)

 Consider potential for leachate to contaminate groundwater

 Consider all groundwater pathways including the presence of drain tiles, soil characteristics, depth 

to groundwater, use of groundwater etc.

 Consider potential for the burial site to create a stability or explosion hazard in nearby structures 

from production of methane.

If so, is adequate land available for on-site burial? (assume 1.42 acres per 1000 half-ton cows , 0.28 

acres per 1000 swine or sheep, and 0.01 acres per 1000 poultry)

If so, will land owner accept on-site burial, associated environmental liabilities, and potential loss of 

property value or use? 

If on-site burial is an option, see the On-Site Treatment/Burial training module at go.usdatraining.com/

Disposal and implement on-site burial. If not, continue to Fifth Option.

Fifth Option - Are mobile treatment technologies available for your area? 

Contact all appropriate mobile treatment technology vendors.

 Verify the units are available for deployment to your site.

 Verify your ability to meet all site/utility requirements.

 Verify units can be fully disinfected after use. 

 Verify the units have adequate capacity to meet your needs. 

 If the capacity is less than needed, can the carcasses be stored/refrigerated while awaiting disposal? 

 Verify the availability of skilled operators and spare parts to keep the units operational. 

 Verify the unit can be set-up on the site (e.g., the site has appropriate grading)

If so, is the technology permitted by the state environmental agency?

If so, can the permit conditions be met? 

If so, can the process byproducts be readily disposed?

If mobile treatment is an option, see On-Site Treatment/Burial training module at go.usdatraining.com/

Disposal and implement. If not, continue to Sixth Option.
DECISION TOOLS

2-12

Sixth Option - Can off-site permitted landfill be used? 

Consult with state environmental agency for landfill advice.

Access a comprehensive list of landfills using the I-WASTE Tool at go.usdatraining.com/I-WASTE. 

 Log on to the I-WASTE Tool and obtain a password if you do not currently have one. 

 Enter userid and password.

 Choose treatment and disposal facilities button on the lower left.

 Enter filter criteria such as “facility type (e.g., rendering, incinerators, or landfill)”

 Note that construction debris landfills are not suitable for carcass disposal, and hazardous waste 

landfills are not necessary unless the carcasses are contaminated with a hazardous material causing 

them to be classified as hazardous

 Enter State or EPA region, and click “View List of Facilities” button.

Contact facilities and determine if they will accept your livestock or poultry and meet some or all of your 

capacity needs.

 If there is insufficient capacity, consider fast-tracking expansion of existing landfill or permitting of 

new landfill for this purpose.

 Consider potential environmental and biosecurity concerns.

 Verify landfill has no outstanding permit violations

 Procure landfill services through appropriate Incident Management Team branch.

If the landfill will accept the material, arrange for biosecure transport. 

 Obtain controlled movement permit for transport of infected carcasses

 Determine type of transport vehicles required. If the waste must travel on public roads, it should be 

transported in closed, leak-resistant trucks or dumpsters. Secondary containment may be needed, 

depending on the type of waste being transported. See Landfill Disposal Guidance

 Work with Depopulation Group Supervisor within the Incident Command System to determine how 

many animals can be depopulated per day and how many trucks will be needed for transport per 

day, ensuring the rates are about the same. If not, arrange for covered, leak-resistant storage.

 Pre-identify transport routes to minimize exposure to susceptible premises.

If permitted landfilling is an option, see the Secure Transport and Off-Site Treatment/Burial training 

modules at go.usdatraining.com/Disposal and implement off-site permitted landfilling. If not, continue 

to Seventh Option.
DECISION TOOLS

2-13

Seventh Option - Is rendering available? 

Will state environmental agency approve rendering?

If so, see a complete list of renderers at go.usdatraining.com/NRA or the EPA database at 

go.usdatraining.com/I-WASTE. 

 Log on to the I-WASTE Tool and obtain a password if you do not currently have one. 

 Enter userid and password.

 Choose treatment and disposal facilities button on the lower left.

 Enter filter criteria such as “facility type (e.g., rendering, incinerators, or landfill)”

 Enter State or EPA region, and click “View List of Facilities” button or map facilities.

Contact facilities and determine if they will accept your livestock or poultry and meet some or all of your 

capacity needs.

 If the capacity is less than needed, can the carcasses be stored/refrigerated while awaiting disposal?

If so, arrange for storage and transport to rendering facility for disposal. 

 Determine if any permits are required for transport of infected carcasses.

 Determine type of transport vehicles required. If the waste must travel on public roads, it should 

be transported in closed, leak-proof trucks or dumpsters. Secondary containment may be needed, 

depending on the type of waste being transported. Contact National Veterinary Stockpile.

 Work with Depopulation Group Supervisor within the Incident Command System to determine how 

many animals can be depopulated per day and how many trucks will be needed for transport per 

day, ensuring the rates are about equal. If not, arrange for leak-resistant, covered storage.

 Pre-identify transport routes to minimize exposure of susceptible premises.

If rendering is an option, see Secure Transport and Off-Site Treatment/Burial training modules at 

go.usdatraining.com/Disposal and implement rendering. If not, continue to Eighth Option.

Eighth Option - Can off-site incinerator be used? 

Will state environmental agency approve incineration?

If so, see a complete list of incinerators at the EPA database at go.usdatraining.com/I-WASTE. 

 Log on to the I-WASTE Tool and obtain a password if you do not currently have one. 

 Enter userid and password.

 Choose treatment and disposal facilities button on the lower left.

 Enter filter criteria such as “facility type (e.g. rendering, incinerators, or landfill)”

 Enter State or EPA region, and click “View List of Facilities” button or map facilities.
DECISION TOOLS

2-14

Contact air authorities to verify operations are not in violation of their air permits.

If the facilities are compliant, contact them and determine if they will accept your livestock or poultry 

and meet some or all of your capacity needs.

If so, arrange for transport to off-site incineration facility for disposal. 

 Determine if any permits are required for transport of infected carcasses.

 Determine type of transport vehicles required. If the waste must travel on public roads, it should 

be transported in closed, leak-proof trucks or dumpsters. Secondary containment may be needed, 

depending on the type of waste being transported. See University of Minnesota Risk Assessment

 Work with Depopulation Group Supervisor within the Incident Command System to determine how 

many animals can be depopulated per day and how many trucks will be needed for transport per 

day, ensuring the rates are about equal. If not, arrange for leak-resistant, covered storage.

 Pre-identify transport routes to minimize exposure of susceptible premises.

If off-site incineration is an option see the Secure Transport and Off-Site Treatment/Burial training modules 

at go.usdatraining.com/Disposal and implement off-site incineration. If not, and you still need to dispose 

of animals, inform Operations Chief and discuss alternate strategies such as vaccination. Return to First 

Option and repeat cycle until all carcasses can be managed.
3-1

SECTION 3 In-House Composting

STEP 2:

Conduct the Farm 

Assessment

STEP 3:

Arrange for Necessary 

Equipment, materials 

and supplies

STEP 4:

Construct Compost 

Windrows

STEP 5:

Monitor 

Temperature

STEP 6:

Turn the 

Windrows

STEP 1:

Deploy compost 

SME from APHIS roster 

(contact Disposal Cell)

Finding Carbon Source: What 

to Say When Calling Potential 

Vendors

Job Aid: Carbon Sources 

for Windrow Construction

Job Aid: Pre-Compost 

Windrows for

AI-Infected Flocks

Job Aid: Windrow

Construction Protocol

for AI-Infected Flocks

At least 2 skid steers 

with operators

Compost Windrow Construction 

Approval Checklist for AI-Infected

Flocks

Job Aid: Temperature

Monitoring Protocol of 

AI-Infected Flocks

Job Aid: Calibration of 

Analog Thermometers

Phase 1 Windrow Evaluation 

Checklist Days 1-14 for 

AI-Infected Flocks

Phase 2 Windrow Evaluation 

Checklist Days 14-28 for 

AI-Infected Flocks 

Composting materials within enclosed structures may contain harmful levels of air contaminants. 

Before entering the structure wear appropriate personal protective equipment and maximize 

natural ventilation by opening the doors and curtains to all the houses containing compost piles. 

Allow enough time for the houses to air out before entering them. Close the doors and curtains 

after completing the temperature readings.

Use the buddy system. Entering a barn with active compost or dead birds requires a two-person 

team. One person, with a cell phone, stays outside the house to monitor the person inside. Before 

anyone enters the barn, the monitor writes down the location so it can be given quickly to a 911 

dispatcher is case of an emergency.

If the person inside is overcome, the monitor immediately calls 911 for assistance. Under no 

circumstances does the monitor enter the barn without Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA). 

Do anything possible to increase ventilation inside the building while waiting for rescue personnel.

SAFETY 

NOTICE

Review the following for a detailed explanation for each step in the Composting Process:

 Job Aid: Overview of the Composting Process

 Appendix I: Mortality Composting Protocol for AI Infected Flocks

Overview of In-House Composting Process

Developed by Texas A&M University Sources: Job Aid: Overview of the Compositing Process , Appendix I: Mortality Composting Protocol for AI Infected 

Flocks , and HPAI Outbreak 2014-2015 Safety, Health & Environmental Protection 
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-2

Carcass Management: In-house Composting Checklist

First Option - Is in-house composting feasible?

Based on the opinion of an animal mortality composting subject matter expert (SME) from the APHIS 

roster, are the site conditions suitable for in-house composting of the number of animals affected? 

 See USDA Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks (also at go.usdatraining.

com/HPAI)

 Poultry houses have sufficient interior space to maneuver composting equipment and construct 

windrows (e.g., enough open space and ceiling height to allow loaders to construct windrows 

6-8 feet high and 12 feet wide. Houses with columns, such as double-deck houses, restrict such 

formations.)

 Poultry houses are located in an area that is accessible by trucks delivering carbon source and 

equipment removing compost

 Poultry houses can be secured against vandals, scavengers, and disease vectors such as wild birds

If the poultry houses are suitable, consider the duration of time it takes to fully compost and determine 

if the following issues can be overcome:

 Personnel required to ensure proper construction, maintenance, and temperature monitoring of 

windrows.

 Need for pest management.

 Denial of use of poultry houses while composting (at least 30 days).

If so, is there a sufficient local supply of carbon source such as wood chips (1-2 pounds carbon source 

per pound of biomass)?

 Check with local agencies and organizations to determine if stockpiles of carbon source are 

available (e.g., parks department and landfills). Ensure that the carbon source is free of any pests or 

pathogens which could threaten local species. (See Carbon Sources for Windrow Construction)

If so, have you arranged for the necessary personnel, equipment and supplies to be delivered to the site?

 Mortality composting subject matter expert

 Composting supplies and carbon source

 Personal protective equipment 

 Cleaning and disinfecting (biosecurity) supplies 

 Hand tools

 Heavy equipment (mid-size skid-steer loaders, tractors with bucket loaders) 

 Qualified equipment operators

If in-house composting is an option, see In-House Composting training module at go.usdatraining.com/

Disposal and implement composting. If not, continue to Second Option.

 Developed by USDA, DHS, and the 3D IPT
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-3

1

Note: The purpose of this document is to provide a summary of the USDA APHIS Mortality Composting

Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flock s and is not a substitute for that document. All appendices

referenced below can be found in that Protocol located at www.aphis.usda.gov/fadprep.

CONDUCTING THE FARM ASSESSMENT

In order to plan for windrow construction at the affected premises, a Farm Assessment is required. The Farm 

Assessment may be provided by the Site Manager or may be developed by a composting Subject Matter 

Expert (SME) recognized by APHIS. The following components found within the assessment must be 

completed.

 Evaluate the barn configuration to determine if space is adequate for windrow(s) construction

within the poultry barns. If not, assess other on-site structures or outside compost sites (see

Appendix A).

 Evaluate the type and quantity of infected materials to be composted, including

– carcass: type, size, number, and condition;

– in-barn manure/litter: volume, moisture content, and density;

– stored manure/litter: volume, moisture content, and density;

– routine mortality method, location, and physical condition of mortalities;

– feed: quantity and location;

– eggs: quantity and condition;

– clean bedding; and

– paper products.

 Calculate the amount of carbon needed for composting (see Appendix B).

 Evaluate premises for supplemental water and include the source and application method.

 Evaluate on farm equipment availability and determine any supplemental equipment needs.

 Ensure all overhead lines and poultry house equipment are removed or out of the way. Be sure all loose 

cords cables or hoses are secured so that they will not become entangled by equipment.

 Ensure ventilation is balanced to reduce the risk of disease transmission while maintaining air

quality for worker safety.

ARRANGING FOR NECESSARY EQUIPMENT

Following a Farm Assessment, the SME coordinates with the Site Manager and requests additional resources 

from the Incident Management Team (IMT) Logistics Branch. The resource list includes, but is not limited to:

 skilled equipment operators and general laborers;

 skid loader(s), pay loaders, dump trucks, rakes, and scoops;

 sawdust, litter, wood shavings, active compost, woodchips, or other carbon material; and

 compost thermometers (36” or 48” stem length).

CONSTRUCTING COMPOST WINDROWS

When constructing compost windrows, the SME should ensure that the following key elements are

incorporated into the construction of the compost windrows:

 windows formed outside of poultry houses are sited in consultation with State and local officials

to minimize environmental impacts;

 windrows (finished dimensions not to exceed 6 to 8 feet high and 12 to 15 feet wide) are

constructed on adequate and uniform base layer (10 to 15 inches thick) of sufficiently porous

carbon material;

FY2016 HPAI Response

Job Aid: Overview of the 

HPAI Composting Process

May 12, 2016

Job Aid: Overview of the

HPAI Composting Process
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-4

2

 base layer and windrow are not compacted with equipment;

 feed from the feed bins and pans is distributed evenly into the compost mix;

 good carcass to carbon contact is achieved by creating a core with a minimum of 1:1 mix volume

of carcasses and other infected materials (manure, egg shells, feed, etc.) and carbon;

 windrows are constructed to ensure adequate distribution of moisture throughout; and

 windrows are capped with carbon material (minimum 8 to 12 inches thick) to ensure that no

carcasses are exposed.

TEMPERATURE MONITORING 

Once windrow construction has been approved by the SME, daily temperature monitoring for 14 days can 

begin following the standard operating procedure (SOP) for temperature monitoring (see Appendix D). 

Temperature data should be recorded on the temperature log (see Appendix E), or in a comparable electronic 

document. The health and safety of the individual conducting the temperature monitoring should be protected 

by following the ammonia safety procedures outlined in Appendix F, and any other safety procedures required

by the Incident Command (IC) or employer.

TURNING THE WINDROWS

After the evaluation and approval of the temperature data collected during the initial 14-day compost cycle, the 

windrow is eligible for turning. The SME or appointed designee will signal approval using the Phase 1 Windrow

Approval Checklist (see Appendix G). Unless obvious problems are noted (leachate, exposed birds, poorly mixed 

piles, or excessive vector activity), windrows should not be disturbed before the end of the 14-day period. 

Physical mixing or rebuilding of the windrows will require restarting the 14-day period. Adding or replacing the cap 

materials or placement of clean carbon sources around the windrow base will not require restarting of the 14-day 

period. Turning must provide homogenization of the core, base and cap materials, and windrows must maintain 

adequate porosity and structure after turning. Following a second successful 14-day compost period, the SME or 

appointed designee will signal approval for releasing the windrow from quarantine by using the Phase 2 Windrow 

Approval Checklist included in Appendix G. If soft tissue is observed on the windrow surface, a 2 to 4 inch 

carbonaceous cap needs to be applied. See Appendix H for turning equipment and methods.

TROUBLESHOOTING PROBLEMS

In the event that windrows fail to perform in the required manner, the following table offers some of the most 

common composting problems and possible solutions that may be implemented. The advice and council of an 

SME should be sought in identifying and prescribing remedies for underperforming compost processes.

Problem Issue Solution

Excessive flies or odor Exposed carcasses Add additional cap material

Leachate from windrow Mixture too wet Add additional carbon material, mix

and cap

Temperature does not reach 131oF Mixture too dry (< 40%)

moisture) Add water to pile, mix if necessary

Temperature does not reach 131oF Mixture too wet (> 

60%) moisture)

Add additional carbon material, mix 

if necessary

Temperature drops early Not enough oxygen Aerate or mix pile
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-5

1 

Note: The purpose of this document is to serve as a guide or script to follow when calling companies who 

may be able to provide carbon material for emergency mortality composting. 

PLANNING THE CALL

The caller needs to be familiar with the Carbon Source Job Aid. 

Use as reference during discussion:

♦ Carbon Source Job Aid

♦ Procuring DUNS and SAM numbers for federal contracting, or state contracting information.

Please check this website for any quarantines on the carbon material to ensure the shipment 

doesn’t violate Plant Protection and Quarantine restrictions https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ 

ourfocus/planthealth/plant-pest-and-disease-programs/pests-and-diseases. 

IDENTIFY YOURSELF AND ASK FOR THE OWNER/MANAGER

Hello, I'm (name) with the (organization). We are preparing for potential animal disease outbreaks 

in our state and composting is one of our options for carcass disposal. (Stress this point)—There is 

no disease currently going on, this is only for planning purposes. To adequately compost, we will 

need wood chips, shavings, and similar carbon materials, and your company has been suggested 

as a potential supplier. We wanted to find out if you have this material and if you might be 

interested in providing it in an emergency? (If they are interested, what kind of materials can they 

provide?)

The material must meet certain specifications to be effective. Reference APHIS Carbon Source

Job Aid, e-mail if possible. (If owner/manager can meet the specification, continue; otherwise thank 

them for their time and ask if they know any other potential suppliers, then end call.)

Depending on the size of an infected farm, we might need to order the material by the truckloads 

for delivery within 48 to 72 hours so the carcasses can be quickly composted. This is only for 

livestock and poultry. Transportation could be contracted if you do not have the vehicles to move 

large quantities of materials. 

(If the owner/manager can meet the need, continue; if not, thank them for their time and ask if they 

know any other potential suppliers, then end call.)

We will not be able to guarantee that you will be contacted, and we are currently collecting this 

information for planning purposes only. Any order would be placed by contracting officials at the 

time of the emergency if funds are available. If you’re interested in helping, we could put you in

 HPAI Response

Finding Carbon Source: What to Say When Calling Potential Vendors 

December 2016

Carbon Source Job Aid

go.usdatraining.com/PPQ

Carbon Source

Job Aid

Finding Carbon Source: 

What to Say When Calling Potential Vendors

Developed by J. Davis, USDA, 2016
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-6

contact with someone that could give you more details on contracting with the state or federal

government. You would be paid fair market price for the materials and this would be negotiated at

the time of the emergency.

We hope that we would never have to face the situation in (their State), but if you’re interested,

may we add you to our list of potential suppliers?  No  Yes If yes, continue. If no, thank them

and ask if they have any other recommendations, and end call.

Thank you for your help. We would like to verify we have your accurate contact information and

would like to ask a few questions, if that’s OK with you?

Plant name:

Physical address: Mailing address:

GPS coordinates, if known (for mapping over agricultural areas):

Contact names (at least two people)

Name: Name:

Phone numbers Phone numbers:

Cell: Work: Cell: Work:

After hours: After hours:

What products could they supply?

Do they have trucks capable

of delivering the product?

 No  Yes—How many trucks could they make available in

an emergency?

How far away could they travel to deliver product?

Would they be willing to allow someone to inspect the product for suitability in advance?

 No  Yes

Provide (your contact information) for further questions or (their State or federal contact information).

Thank you for your help. (End the call.)

Developed by J. Davis, USDA, 2016
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-7

FY2016 HPAI Response

Mortality Composting: 

Carbon Sources for Windrow Construction

May 9, 2016

Construction demolition debris

Wood chips with rocks/gravel

Oat hulls Chopped corn stover

Please note: These procedures may be revised as the situation develops; this is a list of generally acceptable carbon 

sources for windrow composting of HPAI related mortalities. The carbon source resource needs for the premises, i.e. 

quantity and type, should be determined by a compost Subject Matter Expert and will depend on site-specific (typically 

poultry house-specific) conditions and circumstances.

Suitable carbon sources:

 Wood chips about 2” or less in size

 Wood shavings

 Yard/brush trimmings 2” or less in 

size

 Partially composted leaf and yard 

waste (still hot)

 Sawdust (not used alone)

 Chopped hay/straw

 Chopped corn stover

 Oat/Sunflower hulls

 Dry mammalian manure

 Ground pallets (2” or less) if 

fasteners have been removed

 Class A Biosolids, in accordance 

with local and state requirements for 

land application 

 Other material listed in APHIS 

Composting Protocol or as 

recommended by APHIS-recognized 

Subject Matter Expert and approved 

for use on agricultural land by the 

state

Materials not suitable within a carbon 

source:

 Rocks

 Glass

 Plastic

 Large logs/branches

 Grass clippings >5%

 Ground construction and demolition

debris (CDD)

 Regulated pests (Emerald ash borer, 

etc.)

 Rubber

 Metal/baling wire

 Chemicals

 Concrete

 Painted/pressure treated wood

 Soil/sand

 Carbon source with free liquid or 

excessive leachate

Mulch from yard trimmings/waste

Wood chips

Mixed wood with logs/large lumber pieces

Mortality Composting:

Carbon Sources for Windrow Construction

Developed by USDA APHIS Composting Technical Team
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-8

1

Please note: These procedures may be revised as the situation develops.

PRE-COMPOST WINDROWS (PREP PILES)

Applicability: This method can be used after poultry have been euthanized to stabilize 

the carcasses while awaiting arrival of a composting subject matter expert to guide 

construction of the final windrows.

Description: This method, which increases the amount of carbon material mixed within 

the windrow core, involves forming two pre-compost windrows, capping them, and then 

forming one final windrow at a later time. This is especially useful when dealing with 

large amounts of carcass material relative to litter, creating a significant C:N imbalance, 

or when additional carbon material will increase porosity. Forming pre-compost 

windrows also stabilizes the tissue and begins a heating process until a single windrow 

can be constructed.

BUILDING PRE-COMPOST WINDROWS

 Move litter and carcasses from along 

sidewalls and the center of the house, 

forming two pre-compost windrows 

extending the length of the house (see 

top right photo). 

 Cap each windrow with 8–12 inches of 

suitable carbon material. 

BUILDING FINAL WINDROW FROM TWO 

PRE-COMPOST WINDROWS

 In the center of the house, construct a 

12–15 foot wide base that is 10–15

inches deep. 

 Combine both capped pre-compost 

windrows onto the base, mixing litter, 

carcasses, and added carbon material.

 Cap the final windrow with 8–12 inches of 

suitable carbon material (see bottom right

photo).

Final windrow (photo by Josh Payne)

FY2016 HPAI Response

Mortality Composting: 

Pre-Compost Windrows for 

Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

May 11, 2016

Pre-compost windrows (photo by Josh Payne)

Mortality Composting:

Pre-Compost Windrows for 

Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

Developed by USDA APHIS Composting Technical Team
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-9

1

Please note: These procedures may be revised as the situation develops.

TYPICAL WINDROW CONSTRUCTION PROTOCOL

Three critical elements of windrow construction are: 1) a porous base layer, 2) a uniformly mixed 

windrow core, and 3) an adequate cap (see Figure 1). These steps may be done concurrently or as 

separate steps. 

Figure 1. Cross Section of Compost Windrow

WINDROW BASE CONSTRUCTION 

Before in-house composting, clear carcasses and litter from the windrow location(s) of the poultry 

house to create a 12–15 foot wide work area for construction of the windrow base(s). Distribute the 

material from on either side of the pathway. (See Appendix C for 

in-house variations.) 

Before outside composting, an adequate site must be 

identified (see Appendix A). Site modifications and approval 

from State and local agencies may be required. 

Using the largest loader possible, begin building the windrow 

base. 

The windrow base should be 12–15 feet wide with a depth of 

10 to 15 inches. Base will compress over time. 

Carbon material for the base should be porous and bulky 

enough to allow adequate air flow into and through the 

windrow. Ideal materials for the base include bark mulch or 

coarse wood chips. Other acceptable materials include: straw, 

wood shavings, active compost, small grain hulls, and corn 

stover. Also, coarse woody material in excess of 2 inches in 

size should be avoided to ensure that the resulting compost 

can be land applied as a soil amendment. 

If these materials are not available, poultry litter may be used for the windrow base if it is sufficiently 

dry, porous, and bulky. 

To maintain the base’s porosity and to avoid compaction, do not drive equipment on the base.

Clearing the base (photo by 

Gary Flory)

FY2016 HPAI Response

Mortality Composting: Windrow Construction 

Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

May 9, 2016

Mortality Composting:

Windrow Construction Protocol for 

Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

Developed by USDA APHIS Composting Technical Team

Appendix C

Appendix A
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-10

2

CONSTRUCTION OF THE CORE

The windrow core should consist of a uniform mix of 

carcasses and litter. The easiest way to get a 

uniform mix throughout the windrow is to scoop litter 

and birds together in each bucket load and add it to 

the windrow in a manner that thoroughly mixes the 

contents of the bucket. If additional carbon material 

is needed, the material should support heat 

generation (i.e., composting). Suitable materials 

include fresh wood shavings, active compost, poultry 

litter, straw, corn stover, and small grain hulls. In 

many instances this material may need to be 

blended with the existing litter and carcasses to be 

suitable.

Any remaining feed should be blended and mixed 

with the carcasses and litter before windrow construction. Be sure to move infected material as little 

as possible. 

The mix of carcasses and litter should be added from both sides of the windrow. This allows the 

operators to reach the center of the windrow and avoid compacting the base with the tires or tracks of 

the loader. 

The windrow core should be constructed such that 1 foot of base material is exposed on both sides of 

the windrow. 

Add water as needed.

The core should be dome-shaped and of sufficient height to include the litter and carcass mix from 

the area adjacent to the windrow. At this stage, the windrow height should not exceed 6 feet. 

Continue building the core until all of the litter and carcasses have been placed on the base.

CAPPING THE WINDROW

Prior to capping the windrow, remove any carcasses 

that are near the edge of the windrow base and include 

them in the core of the windrow. 

Cap the windrow with 8 to 12 inches of a suitable carbon 

material. Carbon material for the cap should prevent 

flies from contacting carcasses, serve as an insulating 

blanket, and allow air to flow out of the piles. This 

material may be finer in texture than the base. Suitable 

material includes poultry litter, small grain hulls, 

sawdust, new bedding, and wood chips. Straw, corn 

fodder, or similar material may also be suitable; 

however, experience has shown that these products can 

blow off the windrow and may need to be thicker to serve this purpose than other materials. 

Ensure that the entire core is uniformly covered with cap material with no carcasses exposed. 

Avoid compacting the windrow. Do not operate the loader’s tires or tracks onto the sides of the 

windrow while capping.

The completed windrow should be approximately 6 to 8 feet high. 

Constructing the core (photo by Bob Peer)

Smoothing the cap on an outside 

windrow (photo by Gary Flory)

Developed by USDA APHIS Composting Technical Team
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-11

1

Please note: These procedures may be revised as the situation develops.

INITIAL COMPOST WINDROW CONSTRUCTION APPROVAL CHECKLIST

Premises 

County and #: 

Farm Name: 

Farm Address: 

Farm Contact: Contact Phone:

Windrow #(s): Date Windrows 

Started:

Date Windrows 

Completed:

Who 

Constructed 

Windrow(s)?

Contact Phone:

Yes No N/A Comments/Description

WINDROW DESIGN

1 Height between 6 and 8 feet tall. 

2 Width between 12 and 15 feet wide

3 Base between 10 and 15 inches thick

4 Dome shaped without significant irregularities 

5 No soft tissue visible on the surface of the windrow

6 A minimum of 8 inches of carbon cover material

7 Photos taken

8 Sketch of flag locations with dimensions attached

RECOMMENDATIONS:

I have observed the windrows at this site and in my professional judgment they have been 

constructed consistent with the criteria outlined in the Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian 

Influenza Infected Flocks.

I have observed the windrows at this site and in my professional judgment they have NOT 

been constructed consistent with the criteria outlined in the Mortality Composting Protocol for 

Avian Influenza Infected Flocks. The following corrective actions are recommended:

Signature of Composting SME: ________________________________ Date: ______________

FY2016 HPAI Response

Mortality Composting: 

Compost Windrow Construction Approval Checklist 

for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

May 11, 2016

Print name of Composting SME: __________________________________________________

The corrective actions recommended above were completed on (date): _____________

Mortality Composting:

Compost Windrow Construction Approval Checklist

for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

Developed by USDA APHIS Composting Technical Team

Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian

Influenza Infected Flocks.

Mortality Composting Protocol for

Avian Influenza Infected Flocks.
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-12

2

Print name of Composting SME: __________________________________________________

The corrective actions recommended above were completed on (date): _____________

Signature of Composting SME: ________________________________ Date: ______________

Print name of Composting SME: __________________________________________________

Developed by USDA APHIS Composting Technical Team
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-13

Please note: These procedures may be revised as the situation develops.

TEMPERATURE MONITORING PROCEDURE

Monitor temperatures of the windrow daily at a minimum of 10 locations flagged by 

the Subject Matter Expert (SME). The temperature monitoring locations should be 

spaced equidistantly the length of each windrow. Take two temperature readings 

at each flagged location within a foot of the flag; one reading at a depth of 18 

inches and another reading at a depth of 36 inches. To ensure consistent 

temperature monitoring to the same depth, mark the thermometer probe at 18 

inches and 36 inches. Place the temperature probe 3⁄4 of the way up the windrow 

at a 45 degree angle. Ideally, temperatures should be monitored by a single 

individual for consistency. Temperature probes should be calibrated before first use

and weekly thereafter (see Calibration of Analog Thermometers Job Aid). 

Calibration dates can be recorded on the Composting Temperature Log, attached.

INSTRUCTIONS

 Turn on fans or open the doors and curtains to all the houses containing 

compost piles to allow them to air out and to maximize ventilation.

 USE THE BUDDY SYSTEM. Entering a barn with active compost or dead 

birds requires a two person team. 

 Place the stem of the thermometer approximately 18 inches and then 36 

inches into the compost pile half way up the pile at a 45 degree angle.

 Leave the thermometer at each depth and point for at least 60 seconds.

 Log the reading from the thermometer at each flag and at both depths.

 Compare readings to previous day’s readings. 

 After completing the house readings, close the doors and curtains.

 Calculate the average temperatures for each pile by averaging the 18-inch 

readings for all flags for that day then averaging the 36-inch readings for all 

flags for that day and noting the two averages on the Composting 

Temperature Log.

 Windrows should reach an average temperature of 131°F for a minimum of 72 consecutive hours at both 

the 18 inch and 36 inch depths or be assessed by a SME for possible corrective measures. 

 Disinfect the thermometer and return it to its protective case.

 Each thermometer will be kept at the respective premises being monitored. Do not take a thermometer 

from one premise to another.

 If by the third day after initial windrow construction, compost temperature averages remain below 100°F or 

greater than 160°F, a SME should be consulted immediately. 

 During Phase 2, a SME should be consulted immediately if any monitoring location is consistently (more 

than 3 consecutive days) below 100°F or greater than 160°F.

Example temperature 

monitoring locations

FY2016 HPAI Response

Mortality Composting:

Temperature Monitoring Protocol of Avian 

Influenza Infected Flocks

May 9, 2016

Mortality Composting:

Temperature Monitoring Protocol of 

Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

Developed by USDA APHIS Composting Technical Team

Calibration of Analog Thermometers Job Aid Composting Temperature Log

Temperature Log

Composting
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-14

Calibration Week 1 (Name): ___________________________ Date: _______________

Calibration Week 2 (Name): ___________________________ Date: _______________

Calibration Week 3 (Name): ___________________________ Date: _______________

TEMPERATURE MONITORING LOG SHEET

COMPOSTING TEMPERATURE LOG

County: Site Number:

Street address, city, state:

Farm Name:

House/Windrow Number: Date Started: Date Finished: Date Turned:

Use the cells below to record the temperatures each day, for 14 consecutive days, at 18 and 36 inches.

Date Depth Flag #1 Flag #2 Flag #3 Flag #4 Flag #5 Flag #6 Flag #7 Flag #8 Flag #9 Flag#10 Avg

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

Developed by USDA APHIS Composting Technical Team
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-15

1

ROUTINE CALIBRATION OF COMPOST THERMOMETERS MAINTAINS EQUIPMENT

ACCURACY

The purpose of windrow composting of HPAI related poultry 

carcass mortality is inactivation of avian influenza virus. Compost 

pile temperature measurements are a critical indicator of 

effectiveness of the compost process for virus inactivation. 

Temperature monitoring is performed by a compost subject 

matter expert (SME), regulatory monitoring staff, contractors, or 

farm personnel. Accurately monitoring and recording daily 

temperatures is vital to demonstrating that the composting process meets time and 

temperature requirements designated by USDA-APHIS. These time and temperature 

requirements must be met as part of the process to release quarantine on the infected 

premises.

THE THERMOMETER SHOULD BE CALIBRATED BEFORE FIRST USE AND, AT A 

MINIMUM, WEEKLY

Calibration should also be performed if any of the following occurs:

♦ It is dropped on a hard surface or subjected to severe shock 

♦ It is subjected to forces causing excessive pressure or bending of the stem 

♦ It is subjected to prolonged vibration 

♦ It is exposed to extreme temperatures outside the range of the dial 

♦ The calibration screw on the back of the dial is turned accidentally 

FY2016 HPAI Response

Calibration of Analog Thermometers

March 22, 2016

The calibration process described below is appropriate for 

most commercially available dial-type compost 

thermometers. Compost thermometers commonly in use for 

HPAI response are 36” or 48” length bimetal dial industrial 

compost thermometers (such as the 5

/16” stem heavy duty, 

or 3

/8” stem with 1⁄4” fast response tip super duty) 

manufactured by Reotemp Instruments. 

Common bimetal dial compost thermometers

Note: If the stem of the thermometer is bent or the dial is un-sealed 

or broken, the thermometer should be discarded and another 

procured. It is recommended that, where possible, thermometers 

be purchased with and fitted with a “probe handle” or “probe guard” 

for safer handling and protection of the stem and dial. 

Probe handle Probe guard

Calibration of Analog Thermometers

Developed by USDA APHIS Composting Technical Team
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-16

2

MATERIALS NEEDED TO PERFORM CALIBRATION:

♦ Sturdy pail or bucket

♦ Cold water

♦ Ice (crushed or small cubed)

♦ Flathead screwdriver

♦ Compost temperature log or calibration form

♦ Pen or pencil

CALIBRATION INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Assemble a water bath of known temperature, typically an ice bath 32°F (0°C). Place 

enough ice in the bucket to have at least 6” depth, adding just enough water to fill spaces 

between the ice pieces. Let sit for one to several minutes.

2. Agitate (stir) the bath just before and occasionally during calibration.

3. Immerse thermometer tip at least 4” into bath, as the sensitive portion of the thermometer

is the last 2-3” of the stem. Be sure tip does not touch sides or bottom of bucket.

4. Leave thermometer in the bath for at least one minute. 

5. If the dial does not read 32°F, using the flathead screwdriver, turn the small (1/4”) hex 

screw head on the back of the dial case of the thermometer until the pointer is at 32°F. 

Turn the screw counter-clockwise to increase temperature or clockwise to decrease 

temperature.

6. When adjustment is complete, re-check the thermometer in ice water. Repeat adjustment if 

necessary.

7. Each time a thermometer is calibrated it is to be documented that calibration was 

completed. Information can be recorded on the compost temperature log or a separate 

calibration form. Include an equipment identifier, date, reference temperature (32°F), and 

name of the individual performing the calibration.

Probe tip Ice bath 320 F Calibration temperature

Hex screw 

adjustment

Hex screw

Developed by USDA APHIS Composting Technical Team
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-17

1

Please note: These procedures may be revised as the situation develops.

PHASE 1 WINDROW APPROVAL CHECKLIST

Applicability: This checklist is to be used 14 days after windrow construction to verify that they have been 

constructed in accordance with the protocol and have reached temperatures necessary for virus 

inactivation. 

Premises County 

& Number: Farm Name:

Farm Address: 

Farm Contact: Contact Phone:

Windrow No.(s):

Date 

Windrow(s) 

Started:

Date 

Windrow(s)

Completed:

Who constructed 

windrow/s? Contact Info:

Yes No N/A Comments/Description

PHASE 1 WINDROW EVALUATION—Days 1–14

1 Height between 6 and 8 feet tall

2 Width between 12 and 15 feet wide

3 Dome shaped without significant irregularities 

4 No soft tissue visible on the surface of the windrow

5 A minimum of 8 inches of carbon cover material

6 Moisture adequate

7 Leachate present

8 Excessive flies

9 Vector activity observed

10 Odor observed: VOA, putrid

11 Temperature measured at 18 inches and 36 inches

12 Temperatures reached 131°F for 72 consecutive hours

13 Photos taken

PHASE 1 RECOMMENDATIONS OF STATE ANIMAL HEALTH, APHIS OR IMT OFFICIAL:

I have observed the windrows at this site and in my professional judgment they have been 

constructed consistent with the criteria outlined in the Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza

Infected Flocks. Additionally, windrow temperatures have reached the average temperature of 131°F 

for a minimum of 72 consecutive hours. The 14-day initial composting cycle is complete.

FY2016 HPAI Response

Mortality Composting: 

Phase 1 Windrow Evaluation Checklist

Days 1–14 for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

May 11, 2016

Mortality Composting:

Phase 1 Windrow Evaluation Checklist

Days 1–14 for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

Developed by USDA APHIS Composting Technical Team

Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza

Infected Flocks.
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-18

2

I have observed the windrows at this site and in my professional judgment they have NOT been 

constructed consistent with the criteria outlined in the Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza 

Infected Flocks. The windrows should be evaluated by a composting Subject Matter Expert (SME) to 

recommend corrective actions if necessary. 

Windrow temperatures have NOT reached the average temperature of 131°F for a minimum of 72 

consecutive hours. The windrows should be evaluated by a composting SME to recommend corrective 

actions if necessary.

Signature of State Animal Health

Official, APHIS Official or IMT Official: __________________________ Date: _____________

Print name of signing official: ____________________________________________________

PHASE 1 RECOMMENDATIONS OF SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT (FOR UNDERPERFORMING 

WINDROWS):

I have observed the windrows at this site and based on their construction and my review of the 

temperature logs, the windrows have performed in a manner demonstrated to inactive the avian 

influenza virus. The 14-day initial composting cycle is complete.

I have observed the windrows at this site and based on their construction and my review of the 

temperature logs, the windrows have NOT performed in a manner demonstrated to inactive the avian 

influenza virus. The following corrective actions are recommended:

Date of windrow evaluation: _____________________________________________________

Signature of Composting SME: ________________________________ Date: ______________

Print name of Composting SME: __________________________________________________

The corrective actions recommended above were completed on: ________________________

Phase 1 was completed on: _____________________________________________________

Signature of Composting SME: ________________________________ Date: ______________

Developed by USDA APHIS Composting Technical Team
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-19

1

Please note: These procedures may be revised as the situation develops.

PHASE 2 WINDROW APPROVAL CHECKLIST

Applicability: This checklist is to be used 14 days after Phase 1 was completed to verify that the compost 

windrows may be moved without restriction on the premises or may leave the premises with appropriate 

permits. 

Premises County 

& No: Farm Name:

Farm Address:

Farm Contact: Contact Phone:

Windrow No.(s):

Date 

Windrow(s)

Started:

Date 

Windrow(s)

Completed:

Who constructed 

windrow(s)? Contact Info:

Yes No N/A Comments/Description

PHASE 2 WINDROW EVALUATION—Days 14–28

1 Height between 6 and 8 feet tall

2 Width between 12 and 15 feet wide

3 Dome shaped without significant irregularities 

4 No soft tissue visible on the surface of the windrow

5 A minimum of 8 inches of carbon cover material

6 Moisture adequate

7 Leachate present

8 Excessive flies

9 Vector activity observed

10 Odor observed: VOA, putrid

11 Temperature measured at 18 inches and 36 inches

12 Temperatures reached 131°F for 72 consecutive hours

13 Photos taken

PHASE 2 RECOMMENDATIONS OF STATE ANIMAL HEALTH, APHIS OR IMT OFFICIAL:

I have observed the windrows at this site and in my professional judgment they have been 

constructed consistent with the criteria outlined in the Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza 

Infected Flocks. Additionally, windrow temperatures have reached the average temperature of 131°F 

FY2016 HPAI Response

Mortality Composting: 

Phase 2 Windrow Evaluation Checklist

Days 14–28 for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

May 11, 2016

Mortality Composting:

Phase 2 Windrow Evaluation Checklist

Days 14–28 for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

for a minimum of 72 consecutive hours during the second composting phase. The windrows may be 

moved without restriction on the premises or may leave the premises with appropriate permits.

I have observed the windrows at this site and in my professional judgment they have NOT been 

constructed consistent with the criteria outlined in the Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza 

Infected Flocks. The windrows should be evaluated by a composting Subject Matter Expert (SME) to 

recommend corrective actions if necessary. 

Developed by USDA APHIS Composting Technical Team

Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza

Infected Flocks.
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-20

2

for a minimum of 72 consecutive hours during the second composting phase. The windrows may be 

moved without restriction on the premises or may leave the premises with appropriate permits.

I have observed the windrows at this site and in my professional judgment they have NOT been 

constructed consistent with the criteria outlined in the Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza 

Infected Flocks. The windrows should be evaluated by a composting Subject Matter Expert (SME) to 

recommend corrective actions if necessary. 

Windrow temperatures have NOT reached the average temperature of 131°F for a minimum of 72 

consecutive hours during the second composting phase. The windrows should be evaluated by a 

composting SME to recommend corrective actions if necessary.

Signature of State Animal Health

Official, APHIS Official or IMT Official: _______________________ Date: _________________

Print name of signing official: ____________________________________________________

PHASE 2 RECOMMENDATIONS OF SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT (FOR UNDERPERFORMING 

WINDROWS):

I have observed the windrows at this site and based on their construction and my review of the 

temperature logs, the windrows have performed in a manner demonstrated to inactive the avian 

influenza virus. The windrows may be moved without restriction on the premises or may leave the 

premises with appropriate permits.

I have observed the windrows at this site and based on their construction and my review of the 

temperature logs, the windrows have NOT performed in a manner demonstrated to inactive the avian 

influenza virus. The following corrective actions are recommended:

Date of windrow evaluation: _____________________________________________________

Signature of Composting SME: ________________________________ Date: ______________

Print name of Composting SME: __________________________________________________

The corrective actions recommended above were completed on: ________________________

Phase 2 was completed on: _____________________________________________________

Signature of Composting SME: ________________________________ Date: _____________

Developed by USDA APHIS Composting Technical Team

Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza

Infected Flocks.
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-21

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES: 14. DISPOSAL

Attachment 14.A Composting12

PLANNING FOR IN-HOUSE POULTRY COMPOSTING

SOP Manual 14-43 Disposal

Attachment 14.A Composting12

Planning for In-house Poultry Composting

1. Identify service providers for:

a. Mortality composting. Personnel should be trained on operational procedures,

composting procedures, and the proper disposal and composting of animal carcasses.

Contact APHIS Disposal Cell for roster of Composting SMEs. 

b. Heavy equipment operations.

c. Carbon source production and delivery (assume 2–3 pounds of carbon source per

pound of carcass). 

2. Identify regulatory requirements and obtain pre-approval.

3. Identify a facility that

a. has sufficient space to maneuver composting equipment and construct windrows. The

facility should contain enough open space and ceiling must be high enough to allow

the loader to construct windrows 6 feet high and 12 feet wide. Facilities with columns,

such as double-deck houses, restrict such formations;

b. is located in an area that is accessible by the composting equipment. This facilitates

the delivery of carbon source and compost removal; and

c. offers access doors that can be secured against vandals, scavengers, or disease vectors.

4. Obtain all necessary equipment, supplies, materials, personnel, and services identified in

the Site Specific Disposal Plan and as required by the Biosecurity and Health and

Safety/PPE SOPs, such as PPE, carbon source, skid-steer or front-end loaders, longstemmed thermometers, pH meters, bulk-density testing devices, and log books.

5. Ensure all compost team members are trained on proper procedures for composting

infected carcasses, biosecurity procedures, work safety issues, and the use of PPE. If they

are not, see below.

6. Train personnel on biosecurity, work safety issues, and the use of PPE based on the Site

Specific Disposal Plan, the NAHEMS Guidelines: Biosecurity and Biosecurity SOP, and

NAHEMS Guidelines: Health and Safety, NAHEMS Guidelines: PPE, and the Health

and Safety/PPE SOP.

7. Identify a qualified disposal Contracting Officers Representative to oversee the composting 

12 Content and all photos in this attachment are courtesy of Cornell Waste Management Institute. 

http://cwmi.css.cornell.edu/composting.htm. 

operations.

USDA FADPReP Disposal SOP
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-22

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES: 14. DISPOSAL

Attachment 14.A Composting 

OPERATIONS FOR IN-HOUSE OR OUTDOOR POULTRY COMPOSTING

SOP Manual 14-44 Disposal

Operations for In-house or Outdoor

Poultry Composting

1. Don all required PPE as detailed in the

Site-Specific Health and Safety/PPE

Plan.

2. Select a site that is well drained and not

subject to flooding. Keep piles away

from homes and businesses and from

water courses, sinkholes, seasonal seeps

or other landscape features that indicate

the area is hydrologically sensitive. 

3. When implementing in-house

composting the poultry house will be 

vented naturally but mechanical 

ventilation should be turned off. 

4. Site cleanliness is an important aspect of

composting; it deters scavengers, helps 

control odors, and helps maintain good 

neighbor relationships. 

5. Push litter and feed off to the side of the 

barn. Lay an 10-15 inch deep bed of coarse 

wood chips, 8–12 feet wide (depending 

upon structure and equipment 

constraints) and as long as space 

permits. 

6. Add a 12–15 inch layer of litter and 

birds, then cover with a 12–15 inch layer 

of wood chips or other carbon sources.

7. Add another layer of litter and birds until 

the windrow is two or three layers high 

and as long as needed. 

8. If your birds and litter are not separate,

put a carbon base down (as in step 5),

add birds mixed with litter and bedding 

to 4-5 feet high and continue as follows.

9. Cover with 1-2 feet of wood chips or other 

carbon sources to create a bio-filer. The

finished section should be 6–8 feet high.

Operations for In-house or Outdoor

Poultry Composting

1. Don all required PPE as detailed in the 

Site-Specific Health and Safety/PPE 

Plan.

2. Select a site that is well drained and not 

subject to flooding. Keep piles away

from homes and businesses and from 

water courses, sinkholes, seasonal seeps 

or other landscape features that indicate 

the area is hydrologically sensitive.

3. When implementing in-house

composting the poultry house will be

vented naturally but mechanical 

ventilation should be turned off.

4. Site cleanliness is an important aspect of 

composting; it deters scavengers, helps 

control odors, and helps maintain good 

neighbor relationships.

5. Push litter and feed off to the side of the

barn. Lay an 10-15 inch deep bed of coarse

wood chips, 8–12 feet wide (depending

upon structure and equipment 

constraints) and as long as space

permits.

6. Add a 12–15 inch layer of litter and 

birds, then cover with a 12–15 inch layer 

of wood chips or other carbon sources.

♦ 

♦ 

♦ 

♦ 

♦ 

♦ 

♦ 

Build Pile

5. Add a 12-15 inch layer of litter and birds,

then cover with a 12-15 inch layer of wood 

chips or other carbon sources.

6. Add another layer of litter and birds until 

the windrow is two or three layers high and 

as long as needed.

chips, 812 feet wide (depending upon structure 

and equipment constraints) and as long as 

space permits.

For additional information see: Natural Rendering: Composting Poultry Mortality web site: ht

Cornell Waste Management Institute • cwmi.css.cornell.edu

Department of Crop & Soil Sciences

New York State Department of Enviro

With an Avian Influenza outbreak, the birds should be moved as little as possible to ensure disease 

material should be composted with the birds for disinfection. Poultry houses will be out of production 

active stage of composting can be completed. After the compost is removed from the building and p

then be totally disinfected. If it is not feasible to compost in-house, composting should occur as close 

MOISTURE NOTE: If litter is very dry, add 

moisture to the layers as you are building them.

The compost feedstock should be at 30-40%

moisture.

NOTE: If there is a disease outbreak, make

sure on and off-farm workers wear personal 

protective equipment and are properly sanitized

when done. Workers should be vaccinated if

applicable.

Adapted from Cornell Waste Management publication
IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

3-23

SOP Manual 14-45 Disposal

11. Make sure all mortalities are wellcovered to keep odors down, generate 

heat and keep vermin or unwanted

animals out of the windrow.

12. Monitoring is the only activity that will

occur. Temperature probes will be used 

to record temperatures and should range

from 131°–150°F or 55°–65°C during

most of this time period.

13. The primary process in-house, where it 

reaches thermophilic temperatures, will 

take 10–14 days. During this time, no

turning, agitating, or active aeration 

should occur.

14. If litter is very dry, add moisture to the

layers as you are building them. The

compost feedstock should be at 30–40%

moisture. 

15. After the required time/temperature

duration, windrows can be moved

outside the buildings for the curing

process. Testing for the presence of the

disease will be required.

SOP Manual 14-45 Disposal

heat and keep vermin or unwanted 

animals out of the windrow.

12. Monitoring is the only activity that will

occur. Temperature probes will be used 

to record temperatures and should range

from 131°–150°F or 55°–65°C during

most of this time period.

13. The primary process in-house, where it

reaches thermophilic temperatures, will

take 10–14 days. During this time, no 

turning, agitating, or active aeration 

should occur.

14. If litter is very dry, add moisture to the

layers as you are building them. The

compost feedstock should be at 30–40%

moisture.

15. After the required time/temperature

duration, windrows can be moved 

outside the buildings for the curing

process. Testing for the presence of the

disease will be required.

Adapted from Cornell Waste Management publication
4-1

SECTION 4 Outdoor Composting

Carcass Management: Outdoor Composting Checklist

Second Option – Is outdoor composting feasible? 

Identify a suitable site on premises or in a centralized location in accordance with the checklist items below. 

 If off-site consider the need for secure transport

Based on approval of the state environmental agency and the composting SME from the APHIS roster, 

are the site conditions suitable for composting the number of animals affected? 

 See USDA Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks (also at go.usdatraining.

com/HPAI)

 Adequate land area to build compost piles (assume (237) 1000-pound cows per acre, (1,185) 

200-pound swine or sheep per acre, or (47,500) 5-pound poultry per acre). 

 Required distance from water wells, surface water bodies (lakes, streams, rivers, etc.), sinkholes, 

seasonal seeps or other landscape features that indicate the area is hydrologically sensitive, based 

on guidance from state environmental officials. 

 Consider all groundwater pathways including the presence of drain tiles, soil characteristics, depth 

to groundwater, use of groundwater etc. 

 Located away from neighbors and/or out of sight.

 Located downwind from neighbors and/or houses.

 Located away from environmentally-sensitive areas.

 Located close to the livestock or poultry facility or have clear access for transport.

 Clear of overhead utility lines.

 Void of excess water.

 Located on a gentle slope (1%-3%) so there will be no water ponding.

 Consider the need for an impermeable base and/or protective cover to prevent leachate generation 

and migration.

If the site is suitable, consider the duration of time it takes to fully compost and determine if the 

following issues can be overcome:

 Personnel required to ensure proper construction, maintenance, and temperature monitoring of 

windrows.

 Need for pest management.

 Potential for extreme weather (e.g., hurricane) to disturb pile.

 Denial of use of land area while composting (minimum 30 days).

If so, is there a sufficient local supply of carbon source such as wood chips (1-2 pounds carbon source 

per pound of biomass)?

 Check with local agencies and organizations to determine if stockpiles of carbon source are 

available (e.g., parks department and landfills). Ensure that the carbon source is free of any pests or 

pathogens which could threaten local species. See Carbon Sources for Windrow Construction.
OUTDOOR COMPOSTING

4-2

If so, have you arranged for the necessary equipment and supplies to be delivered to the site?

 Personnel 

 Composting supplies and carbon source

 Personal protective equipment 

 Cleaning and disinfecting (biosecurity) supplies 

 Hand tools

 Heavy equipment (mid-size skid-steer loaders, tractors with bucket loaders, trucks, containers and 

covers if transporting, leak-resistant material for lining carcass transport containers) 

If composting is an option see Outdoor Composting training module at go.usdatraining.com/Disposal

and implement composting. If not, continue to Third Option.

 Developed by USDA, DHS, and the 3D IPT
OUTDOOR COMPOSTING

4-3

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES: 14. DISPOSAL

Attachment 14.A Composting 

PLANNING FOR OUTDOOR COMPOSTING FOR LIVESTOCK OTHER THAN POULTRY

SOP Manual 14-44 Disposal

Planning for Outdoor Composting for Livestock Other than Poultry

1. Identify service providers for:

a. Mortality composting. Personnel should be trained on operational procedures,

composting procedures, and the proper disposal and composting of animal carcasses.

See APHIS roster of Compost SMEs.

b. Heavy equipment operations.

c. Carbon source production and delivery (assume 2–3 pounds of carbon source per

pound of carcass). See Carbon Sources for Windrow Construction

2. Identify regulatory requirements and obtain pre-approval from state environmental agency.

3. Identify a composting site that is

a. large enough to accommodate the windrows (assume 24 feet wide including buffer 

space and 6 feet high by required length plus staging and access areas);

b. located away from neighbors and out of sight;

c. at least 200 feet from drinking water wells, surface water, and environmentally

sensitive areas;

d. downwind of homes and other dwellings;

e. accessible in all weather;

f. clear of underground and overhead utilities;

g. not interfering with traffic;

h. on a crowned grade where storm water will not accumulate;

i. void of excess water; and

j. capable of being dedicated to composting for several months.

4. Obtain all necessary equipment, supplies, materials, personnel, and services identified in

the Site Specific Disposal Plan and as required by the Biosecurity and Health and

Safety/PPE SOPs, such as PPE, carbon source, skid-steer or front-end loaders, longstemmed thermometers, pH meters, bulk-density testing devices, and log books.

5. Ensure all compost team members are trained on proper procedures for composting

infected carcasses, biosecurity procedures, work safety issues, and the use of PPE. If not,

6. Train personnel on biosecurity, work safety issues, and the use of PPE based on the Site

Specific Disposal Plan, the NAHEMS Guidelines: Biosecurity and Biosecurity SOP, and

NAHEMS Guidelines: Health and Safety, NAHEMS Guidelines: PPE, and the Health

and Safety/PPE SOP.

7. Identify a qualified disposal Contracting Officers Representative to oversee the composting 

operations.

Attachment 14.K

USDA FADPReP Disposal SOP

Carbon Sources for Windrow Construction
OUTDOOR COMPOSTING

4-4

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES: 14. DISPOSAL

Attachment 14.A Composting

OPERATIONS FOR OUTDOOR COMPOSTING FOR LIVESTOCK OTHER THAN POULTRY

SOP Manual 14-45 Disposal

Operations for Outdoor 

Composting for Livestock other 

than Poultry

1. Don all required PPE as detailed in the SiteSpecific Health and Safety/PPE Plan.

2. Select site that is well drained, at least 200 

feet from water courses, sinkholes, seasonal 

seeps or other landscape features that 

indicate the area is hydrologically sensitive.

3. Fence the area if desired, and install 

measures to prevent water run-on and runoff if needed.

4. Construct an impermeable pad if excess 

leachate production is a concern to the 

approving authority. The pad could consist 

of a low-permeability soil base, pavement, 

or a suitable liner material beneath the pile if 

the liner will not cause the compost material 

to slip during inclement weather.

5. Place a 24-inch bed of bulky, absorbent 

organic material such as 3-inch wood chips 

over the pad. Ensure the base is large 

enough to allow for 2-foot clearance around 

the carcass.

6. Lay animal in the center of the bed. Lance 

the rumen to avoid bloating and possible 

explosion. Explosive release of gases can 

result in odor problems and it will blow the 

cover material off the composting carcass.

7. Cover carcass with dry, high-carbon 

material, old silage, sawdust or dry stall 

bedding (some semi-solid manure will 

expedite the process). Do NOT stack 

medium-sized, large, or very large carcasses 

on top of one another. For young animals, 

layer mortalities no more than 1 foot thick 

with a minimum of 2 feet of carbon material 

between layers. 

Operations for Outdoor 

Composting for Livestock other 

than Poultry

1. Don all required PPE as detailed in the SiteSpecific Health and Safety/PPE Plan.

2. Select site that is well drained, at least 200 

feet from water courses, sinkholes, seasonal 

seeps or other landscape features that 

indicate the area is hydrologically sensitive.

3. Fence the area if desired, and install 

measures to prevent water run-on and runoff if needed.

4. Construct an impermeable pad if excess 

leachate production is a concern to the 

approving authority. The pad could consist 

of a low-permeability soil base, pavement, 

or a suitable liner material beneath the pile if 

the liner will not cause the compost material 

to slip during inclement weather.

5. Place a 24-inch bed of bulky, absorbent 

organic material such as 3-inch wood chips 

over the pad. Ensure the base is large 

enough to allow for 2-foot clearance around 

the carcass.

6. Lay animal in the center of the bed. Lance 

the rumen to avoid bloating and possible 

explosion. Explosive release of gases can 

result in odor problems and it will blow the 

cover material off the composting carcass.

7. Cover carcass with dry, high-carbon 

material, old silage, sawdust or dry stall 

bedding (some semi-solid manure will 

expedite the process). Do NOT stack 

medium-sized, large, or very large carcasses 

on top of one another. For young animals, 

layer mortalities no more than 1 foot thick 

with a minimum of 2 feet of carbon material 

between layers. 

Adapted from Cornell Waste Management Institute
OUTDOOR COMPOSTING

4-5

SOP Manual 14-46 Disposal

8. Let sit for several months, then check to see if

carcasses are fully degraded. Do not turn 

piles for at least 3 months. 

9. Remove large bones before using the 

finished compost. 

10. After building the compost piles, disinfect

all tools, equipment and other items that

may harbor pathogens, and maintain site 

cleanliness to deter scavengers, control

odors, and help good neighbor relations. 

11. Maintain a log of temperature, moisture, 

content, odor, vectors (any unwanted 

animals), leachate (liquid that comes out of

the pile), spills and other unexpected events.

SOP Manual 14-46 Disposal

8. Let sit for several months, then check to see if

carcasses are fully degraded. Do not turn 

piles for at least 3 months. 

9. Remove large bones before using the 

finished compost. 

10. After building the compost piles, disinfect

all tools, equipment and other items that

may harbor pathogens, and maintain site 

cleanliness to deter scavengers, control

odors, and help good neighbor relations. 

11. Maintain a log of temperature, moisture, 

content, odor, vectors (any unwanted 

animals), leachate (liquid that comes out of

the pile), spills and other unexpected events.

Adapted from Cornell Waste Management Institute
OUTDOOR COMPOSTING

4-6

SOP Manual 14-47 Disposal

12. Monitor the internal compost pile temperatures daily with 3–4 foot long compost thermometers.

The optimal temperature range for composting is between 104°F and 140°F (40°C and 60°C). 

During periods of extremely cold weather, piles may need to be larger than usual to minimize 

surface cooling. As decomposition slows, temperatures will gradually drop and remain within a 

few degrees of ambient air temperature. Don appropriate PPE equipment such as disposable 

gloves.

a. Insert a temperature probe carefully and straight down into each quadrant of the pile 

to allow daily and weekly monitoring of internal temperatures at depths of 10, 20, 30, 

and 40 inches.

b. Use the averages to represent the compost pile temperature.

13. If the compost pile does not rise to expected temperature levels within the first 2 weeks of 

composting, evaluate the initial pile formulation for proper carbon-to-nitrogen ratio (30:1) and the 

mixture of co-composting materials and carcasses.

14. If building an aerated static pile, the pile must be insulated (covered with a layer of bulking 

material or finished compost) and maintained at a temperature of not less than 1310

F (550C) for at 

least 3 consecutive days, monitored 6–8 inches from the top of the pile, to meet pathogen 

reduction standards typically used for land-applied sewage sludge.

15. Periodically test the moisture content of the compost. Use analytical equipment or the handsqueeze method. For the hand-squeeze method:

a. Don appropriate PPE (see the Health and Safety/PPE SOP).

b. Squeeze a handful of compost material firmly several times to form a ball.

c. The characteristics of the ball indicates the moisture content:

i. If it falls apart, the moisture content is much less than 50 percent.

ii. If it remains intact after being gently bounced three or four times, it is nearly 50 

percent.

iii. If the ball texture is slimy with a musty, soil-like odor and liquid squeezes out, the 

moisture content is more than 50 percent.

d. If the moisture content is low and the pile temperature is very high (1500

F), rake back 

the compost cover layer (up to 1 foot) and add enough water to bring the moisture 

content in the pile up to 50 percent. 

e. If liquid begins to leach out of the pile, spread an absorbent organic material such as 

sawdust around the pile.

16. Thoroughly clean and disinfect all of the disposal equipment. See the C&D and Biosecurity 

SOPs.

17. When the compost is finished (typically 4–9 months for a static mortality compost pile, 

depending on weather and other conditions), it can be used for

a. a base for the next compost pile,

b. land application on non-edible crops, and

c. landfill daily cover.
OUTDOOR COMPOSTING

4-7

Determine Compost Site Availability

Logistics

Logistics (Cont.)

Procedures for Outdoor Composting of AI-Infected Poultry Carcasses

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 

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















































































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







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 



































































 















 

























































 

























































































































 



































































 















 

























































 

























































































































 

































































 





























































 

























































 















































































 











































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 

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 

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

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

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

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











































USDA APHIS online Emergency Management Tools, 2007.
OUTDOOR COMPOSTING

4-8

Finishing the Site

Disposal

After Composting

Composting Birds and Byproducts



















































































 

























































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





















 



















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



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



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

















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











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





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





 













































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







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





















 



















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



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



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

















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











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





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





 













































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







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





















 



















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



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



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

















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











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





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





 













































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































 























































































 













































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



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





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







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

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





USDA APHIS online Emergency Management Tools, 2007.
5-1

SECTION 5 Open Air Burning

Carcass Management: Open Air Burning Checklist

Will local and state agencies allow open burning at the site?

 Local Fire Department

 State Department of Agriculture, Animal Health

 State Department of Environment or Natural Resources 

 USDA-APHIS

 USEPA

Will open burning release air pollutants in excess of public health standards?

If so, can the permit conditions, such as measures to control the spread of fire, distance to occupied 

buildings etc. be met?

 What environmental testing (e.g., water, ash, soils) are required and at what frequency? 

 How and where would the ash be disposed of?

 Are weather conditions (e.g., wind and drought) suitable for open are burning?

If so, will burning be publically unacceptable?

If so, have you arranged for the necessary personnel, equipment and supplies to be delivered to the site?

 Adequate source of combustible material and fuel to keep the fire going. Verify that type of fuel is 

acceptable to regulatory agencies.

 Other equipment including mechanical chains and lifting equipment. 

 Personnel properly trained in the use of this equipment. 

 Fire safety equipment also should be readily available. 

 If open air burning is an option, see On-Site Treatment/Burial training module at go.usdatraining.com/

aphis_tools and implement on-site open air burning. If not, continue to Fourth Option.

 Developed by USDA, DHS, and the 3D IPT
OPEN AIR BURNING

5-2

Open Air Burning Advantages

Disadvantages

Procedure for Open Air Burning of AI Infected Poultry Carcasses

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

























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

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



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













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







































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













 











































































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

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



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

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

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



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



















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

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













 









































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



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

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

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



































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





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

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



USDA APHIS online Emergency Management Tools, 2007.
OPEN AIR BURNING

5-3

SOP Manual 14-57 Disposal

Attachment 14.F Open-Air Burning

This method involves burning on open land and above ground, in a pit, or on pyres. 

Planning

2. Calculate the amount of material required to accomplish the open

1. Obtain approval from state environmental agency.

-air burning. One adult

bovine carcass is equivalent to five finishing pigs or five adult sheep. One adult bovine 

carcass will require16

a. 3 bales of straw or hay,

b. 3 pieces of untreated heavy lumber,

c. 50 pounds of kindling wood,

d. 100 pounds of coal pieces that are 6–8 inches in diameter, and

e. 1 gallon of liquid fuel. Do not use gasoline. The type and amount of fuel used for

incineration will be influenced by local fuel availability and conditions. For effective

burning, fuel should be as dry as possible.

3. Other equipment includes mechanical chains and lifting equipment. Identify personnel 

properly trained in the use of this equipment. Fire safety equipment also should be readily

available.

4. Build a fire bed that is perpendicular to the prevailing wind.

Operations

1. Don all required PPE detailed in the Site-Specific Health and Safety/PPE Plan.

2. Prepare the bed:

a. Stake out and fence the selected burning site for the fire-bed construction.

b. Allow a fire-bed length of 3 feet for each adult cattle carcass, five swine carcasses, or 

five sheep carcasses. The team may find it helpful to convert the number of carcasses 

in need of disposal into bovine-equivalent carcasses as seen in Table 14.F-1.

17

Table 14.F-1. Estimating Bovine—Equivalent Carcasses 

Animal Bovine Equivalent Carcasses

1 adult cow or bull 1 bovine-equivalent carcass

5 adult swine 1 bovine-equivalent carcass

5 adult sheep 1 bovine-equivalent carcass

 16 Recommended incineration materials include straw or hay, untreated heavy timber, kindling wood, coal, and

liquid fuel.

17 To estimate the number of bovine-equivalent carcasses, first list the number and species of carcasses to be 

incinerated, then convert these figures into a number representing bovine-equivalent carcasses.

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES: 14. DISPOSAL

Attachment 14.F Open Air Burning

USDA FADPReP Disposal SOP
OPEN AIR BURNING

5-4

SOP Manual 14-58 Disposal

c. Lay three rectangular rows of straw or hay bales lengthwise along the line of the fire

bed. Rows should be 12 inches apart and each bale should be separated by a 12-inch 

gap.

d. Place loose straw in the spaces between the rows and bales to provide natural air

flow.

e. Place large pieces of lumber lengthwise on top of each row. Distribute large and 

medium-sized pieces of lumber across the fire bed, leaving 6 to 12 inches of space

between them.

f. Place small kindling wood on the fire bed and cover loosely with straw.

g. Spread 6- to 8-inch-diameter coal evenly at the rate of 500 pounds per square yard, or 

use a liquid field such as diesel or furnace oil over the wood mixture to make a level 

bed.

h. Lay the carcasses on the fire bed.

i. Position carcasses on their backs with their feet in the air and alternately head to tail.

j. Two goats, sheep, or swine carcasses can be placed on top of each bovine carcass and 

burned without additional fuel.

k. Place loose straw on top of the carcasses and all spaces in between.

l. Spray liquid fuel over the fire bed with a pump, or use sprinkling cans or buckets.

m. Soak rags in kerosene oil or waste oil and place them every 30 feet along the fire bed 

for a better and more harmonized ignition.

n. Make sure that people and equipment are at least 25 feet from the burning pile.

o. Have fire equipment readily available.

p. Ignite the fire bed.

q. Occasionally stir the burning pile with front-end loaders.

r. Add more fuel as needed.

s. Bury the ash after all carcasses have been burned completely and the fire has been 

extinguished.

3. Thoroughly clean and disinfect all disposal equipment. See the Cleaning and 

See the Cleaning and Disinfection SOP: Disinfection and Biosecurity SOPs.go.usdatraining.com/SOP_CD and the Biosecurity SOP: 

go.usdatraining.com/SOP_Biosecurity

USDA FADPReP Disposal SOP
6-1

SECTION 6 On-Site Burial

Carcass Management: On-Site Burial Checklist

Will state environmental agency permit burial at the site?

 Consider soil suitability (see USDA NRCS online Web Soil Survey at go.usdatraining.com/WSS

based on guidance from state environmental officials?)

 Consider potential for leachate to contaminate groundwater

 Consider all groundwater pathways including the presence of drain tiles, soil characteristics, depth 

to groundwater, use of groundwater etc.

 Consider potential for the burial site to create a stability or explosion hazard in nearby structures 

from production of methane.

If so, is adequate land available for on-site burial? (assume 1.42 acres per 1000 half-ton cows , 0.28 

acres per 1000 swine or sheep, and 0.01 acres per 1000 poultry)

If so, will land owner accept on-site burial, associated environmental liabilities, and potential loss of 

property value or use? 

If on-site burial is an option, see the On-Site Treatment/Burial training module at go.usdatraining.com/

Disposal and implement on-site burial. If not, continue to Fifth Option.

 Developed by USDA, DHS, and the 3D IPT
ON-SITE BURIAL

6-2

Burial Effect on Environment

Why is nitrogen a problem? 

 EPA standard for nitrates in drinking water is 10.0 mg/L

 Carcass burial sites generate over 1000 times the standard

 Causes Methemoglobinemia (blue baby syndrome) which can be fatal to infants

 Toxic to aquatic life

 Depletes dissolved oxygen in receiving waters

 Stimulates aquatic plant growth (eutrophication)

Developed by L.P. Miller, USDA, 2014
ON-SITE BURIAL

6-3

Land area or excavation volume required for trench burial.

Jurisdiction/ 

Source

 Total

Trench

Depth

(D)

Carcass

Depth

Depth

Cover

Trench

Width (W)

Trench

Length

(L)

Est. Area 

or Volume

Required

Carcass

Equivalents

Other Notes 

Literature

NC

(Wineland & 

Carter, 1997)

 50-55 ft3 (~2.0 

yd3) per 

1,000 broilers 

or 

commercial 

layers

100 ft3 (3.7 

yd3) per 

1,000 turkeys

Note that the volume estimates 

were based on a 

disposal pit design, rather than 

trench burial.

Australia 

(Atkins & 

Brightling, 

1985) 

~3.5 m 

(11.5 ft) 

1.5 m 

(5 ft) 

2.0 m 

(6.5 ft) 

to ground 

level 

3-5 m 

(10-16.5 ft) 

determined 

by 

equipment 

used 

-- 1 m3 (~35 ft3 

or 1.3 yd3) 

per 8-10 

mature sheep 

(off-shears) 

 -- To calculate the necessary pit 

volume, including an 

allowance for cover, a value of 

0.3 m3 of excavation 

per sheep was used. 

Australia 

(Lund, 

Kruger, & 

Weldon) 

2.6 m 

(8.5 ft) 

-- 1 m 

(3.3 ft) 

4 m 

(13 ft) 

6.7 km 

(~4.2 mi) 

for 30,000 

cattle 

30,000 head of 

cattle 

requires trench 

of 

70,000 m3 (2.5 

million 

ft3, or 92,000 

yd3) 

-- Equates to excavation volume 

of 2.3 m3 (82 ft3 or 3 

yd3) per cattle carcass. 

N/A 

(McDaniel, 

1991) 

9 ft 3 ft 6 ft 7 ft -- 14 ft2 at 

bottom of pit 

for 

each adult 

bovine 

1 adult 

bovine = 5 

mature sheep 

or hogs 

For every additional 3 ft of 

trench depth, the number 

of carcasses per 14 ft2 can be 

doubled. 

Due to bulky feathers, poultry 

(assuming 3 ft 

depth, 

equates to ~42 

ft3 or 

~1.2 yd3 per 

adult 

bovine) 

require more burial 

space per unit of weight than 

cattle, hogs, or sheep. 

Estimate space required for 

poultry by counting 

carcasses that fill a space of 

known volume (i.e. 

truck). 

N/A 

(Sander, 

Warbington, 

& Myers, 

2002) 

9 ft -- 3-4 ft 7 ft -- 14 ft2 per 

mature cow 

-- 

N/A 

(Anonymous, 

1973) 

-- -- -- -- -- Assume 40 lbs 

of 

poultry 

carcasses per 1 

ft3 

-- Equates to approximately 1,080 

lbs/yd3. 

Regulatory Agencies

AL 

(USDA, 

Natural

Resource 

Conservation 

Service,

Alabama) 

8 ft 

(for deep 

soils 

where 

bedrock 

not a 

concern) 

1 ft max 

small 

animals 

1 carcass 

max large 

animals 

2 ft 

mounded 

-- -- -- -- Max size of burial excavation 

should be 0.1 acre 

(~4,400 ft2) 

Excavations over 3.5 ft deep 

should be sloped on 

sides at least 1.5 (horiz) to 1 

(vert) 

TX

(USDA, 

Natural

Resources 

Conservation 

Service,

Texas, 2002) 

3 ft min 

8 ft max 

1 ft small 

animals 

1 carcass 

large 

animals 

2 ft 4 ft Adequate 

for 

mortality 

Total mortality 

weight ÷ 

62.4 lb/ft3 = 

~volume of 

mortality in ft3 

Pit excavation 

= 2-4 

times the 

mortality 

volume to 

-- Pits 6 ft or greater in depth – 

perform soil tests to a 

depth two ft below lowest 

planned excavation 

Multiple pits – separate by 3 ft 

of undisturbed or 

compacted soil 

For deep soils, carcasses and 

soil can be placed in 

multiple layers up to a total 

Land Area or Excavation Volume Required for Trench Burial
ON-SITE BURIAL

6-4

Land area or excavation volume required for trench burial.

Jurisdiction/ 

Source

 Total

Trench

Depth

(D)

Carcass

Depth

Depth

Cover

Trench

Width (W)

Trench

Length

(L)

Est. Area 

or Volume

Required

Carcass

Equivalents

Other Notes 

Literature

NC

(Wineland & 

Carter, 1997)

 50-55 ft3 (~2.0 

yd3) per 

1,000 broilers 

or 

commercial 

layers

100 ft3 (3.7 

yd3) per 

1,000 turkeys

Note that the volume estimates 

were based on a 

disposal pit design, rather than 

trench burial.

Australia 

(Atkins & 

Brightling, 

1985) 

~3.5 m 

(11.5 ft) 

1.5 m 

(5 ft) 

2.0 m 

(6.5 ft) 

to ground 

level 

3-5 m 

(10-16.5 ft) 

determined 

by 

equipment 

used 

-- 1 m3 (~35 ft3 

or 1.3 yd3) 

per 8-10 

mature sheep 

(off-shears) 

 -- To calculate the necessary pit 

volume, including an 

allowance for cover, a value of 

0.3 m3 of excavation 

per sheep was used. 

Australia 

(Lund, 

Kruger, & 

Weldon) 

2.6 m 

(8.5 ft) 

-- 1 m 

(3.3 ft) 

4 m 

(13 ft) 

6.7 km 

(~4.2 mi) 

for 30,000 

cattle 

30,000 head of 

cattle 

requires trench 

of 

70,000 m3 (2.5 

million 

ft3, or 92,000 

yd3) 

-- Equates to excavation volume 

of 2.3 m3 (82 ft3 or 3 

yd3) per cattle carcass. 

N/A 

(McDaniel, 

1991) 

9 ft 3 ft 6 ft 7 ft -- 14 ft2 at 

bottom of pit 

for 

each adult 

bovine 

1 adult 

bovine = 5 

mature sheep 

or hogs 

For every additional 3 ft of 

trench depth, the number 

of carcasses per 14 ft2 can be 

doubled. 

Due to bulky feathers, poultry 

bovine) 

p

known volume (i.e. 

truck). 

N/A 

(Sander, 

Warbington, 

& Myers, 

2002) 

9 ft -- 3-4 ft 7 ft -- 14 ft2 per 

mature cow 

-- 

N/A 

(Anonymous, 

1973) 

-- -- -- -- -- Assume 40 lbs 

of 

poultry 

carcasses per 1 

ft3 

-- Equates to approximately 1,080 

lbs/yd3. 

Regulatory Agencies

AL 

(USDA, 

Natural

Resource 

Conservation 

Service,

Alabama) 

8 ft 

(for deep 

soils 

where 

bedrock 

not a 

concern) 

1 ft max 

small 

animals 

1 carcass 

max large 

animals 

2 ft 

mounded 

-- -- -- -- Max size of burial excavation 

should be 0.1 acre 

(~4,400 ft2) 

Excavations over 3.5 ft deep 

should be sloped on 

sides at least 1.5 (horiz) to 1 

(vert) 

TX

(USDA, 

Natural

Resources 

Conservation 

Service,

Texas, 2002) 

3 ft min 

8 ft max 

1 ft small 

animals 

1 carcass 

large 

animals 

2 ft 4 ft Adequate 

for 

mortality 

Total mortality 

weight ÷ 

62.4 lb/ft3 = 

~volume of 

mortality in ft3 

Pit excavation 

= 2-4 

times the 

mortality 

volume to 

-- Pits 6 ft or greater in depth – 

perform soil tests to a 

depth two ft below lowest 

planned excavation 

Multiple pits – separate by 3 ft 

of undisturbed or 

compacted soil 

For deep soils, carcasses and 

soil can be placed in 

multiple layers up to a total 

allow for 

voids and fill 

soil 

Spreadsheet 

avail on 

request 

depth of 8 ft 

62.4 lb/ft3 suggests a density of 

approximately 1,680 

lbs/yd3 

APHIS 

(USDA, 

1980) 

9 ft or 

Greater

-- -- 7 ft 

or greater 

-- 14 ft2 at 

bottom of pit 

for 

each adult 

bovine 

1 adult 

bovine = 5 

mature sheep 

or hogs 

For every additional 3 ft of 

trench depth, the number 

of carcasses per 14 ft2 can be 

doubled. 

Trench site should be mounded 

over and neatly 

graded. Do not pack the trench 

– decomposition 

and gas formation will crack a 

tightly packed trench 

causing it to bubble and leak 

fluids. 

APHIS 

(USDA, 

2001a) 

-- -- -- -- -- 42 ft3 (~1.2 

yd3) 

required to 

bury 1 

bovine, 5 pigs, 

or 5 

sheep 

-- 

Australia 

(Agriculture 

and

Resource 

Management 

Council of 

Australia and 

New 

Zealand,

1996) 

~5 m 

(~16.5 ft) 

-- 2 m 

(6.5 ft) 

~3 m 

(~10 ft) 

-- 1.5 m3 (~53 

ft3 or ~2 

yd3) per each 

adult 

beast or 5 adult 

sheep 

-- Example: 

Trench 5 m deep x 3 m wide 

filled with carcasses to 

within 2.5 m of ground level 

will accommodate 5 

cattle or 25 sheep per linear 

meter (2.5 x 3 x 1 = 7.5 

m3; 7.5/1.5 = 5 cattle or 25 

sheep) 

Alberta, 

Canada 

4-5 m 

(13-16.5 

-- 2 m 

(6.5 ft) 

2 m 

(6.5 ft) 

10 m 

(33 ft) 

31 adult cattle 

carcasses

1 bovine = 5 

adult hogs or 

(Ollis, 2002) ft) require 

trench 4 x 2 x 

10 m 

(DxWxL) 

(80m3, 2,800 

ft3, or 105 yd3 

per 31 

adult cattle) 

(~2.6 m3, 

92 ft3, or 3.5 

yd3 per 

carcass)

46 adult cattle 

carcasses

require 

trench 5 x 2 x 

10 m 

(DxWxL) 

sheep 

1 bovine = 40 

broiler 

chickens 

(market-ready 

weight) 
ON-SITE BURIAL

6-5

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES: 14. DISPOSAL

Attachment 14.G Unlined Burial18

SOP Manual 14-59 Disposal

Attachment 14.G Unlined Burial18

Planning

1. Review State and local regulations regarding burial. Individual States regulate the

parameters for burial (e.g., quantity of carcasses, depth to water table, and distance to 

wells, surface water, and property lines).

2. Obtain information from the USDA NRCS Web Soil Survey such as soil maps, drainage, 

and seasonal water table data.

3. If the Web Soil Survey data indicates the site is suitable for carcass burial, obtain the 

services of a qualified environmental professional such as a Professional Geologist or 

Professional Engineer to collect at least three soil borings of the site to the water table.

Trench burial has the potential to impact groundwater and generate offensive odors, 

requiring the water table to be deep and the soil impermeable. Using the soil logs, 

perform hydrogeological and contaminant transport modeling to assess the likelihood of 

the burial site contaminating drinking water aquifers. 

4. Consult with appropriate State regulatory agencies about permits for potential sites before

initiating operations.

5. Verify the site is large enough for on-site burial of the carcasses based on Attachment 

14.I Land Area or Excavation Volume Required for Trench Burial, and the FAD/PReP

Guidelines: Disposal.

6. Verify the site is accessible to carcass hauling trucks and heavy equipment.

7. Design the excavation size, depth, and side slope angles to prevent cave-ins.

8. Prepare and maintain a list of names and contact information for heavy machinery

operators, fire department personnel, law enforcement, public works departments, 

departments of transportation, and regulatory agencies.

9. Contract with local heavy equipment suppliers and operators to deliver, operate, fuel, and 

maintain needed heavy equipment. Contract for carcass storage equipment and/or 

services if needed.

10. Ensure that personnel who will be operating the heavy equipment are properly certified in 

the use of the equipment.

11. Train disposal personnel on safety, biosecurity, and operational procedures in accordance

with the Site Specific Plan. 

Operations

1. Obtain all appropriate permits and approvals, including landowner’s permission and 

acceptance of long-term environmental liability, to begin burial.

 18 Mukhtar, S., Boadu, F.O., Jim, Y.H., Shim, W., Vestal, T.A., & Wilson, C.L. (2012). Managing Contaminated

Animal and Plant Materials: Field Guide on Best Practices.

14.I Land Area or Excavation Volume Required for Trench Burial,

Attachment

USDA FADPReP Disposal SOP

 (go.usdatraining.com/SOP_disposal).
ON-SITE BURIAL

6-6

SOP Manual 14-60 Disposal

2. Don all required PPE as detailed in the Site-Specific Health and Safety/PPE Plan.

3. Fence and stake the burial site.

4. Obtain the heavy equipment and machinery (backhoe, scraper, bulldozer, or other 

equipment) required for excavating.

5. Excavate the appropriate sized trench based on the excavation design parameters.

6. Puncture/vent the carcasses by stabbing the area posterior to the ribs and the thoracic and 

abdominal cavities, on the left side for ruminants. 

7. Place carcasses in the trench.

8. Cover the carcasses with the excavated earth, being sure to grade the surface soil to 

facilitate runoff.

9. Seed the surface of the excavated area to minimize soil erosion.

10. Thoroughly clean and disinfect all of the disposal equipment. See the Cleaning and Disinfection

and Biosecurity SOPs.

11. Regularly inspect and maintain the site by adding additional backfill to prevent pooling

of water if necessary.

12. Highly recommended: monitor groundwater quality down gradient of the burial site(s) to 

ensure the ongoing safety of ground water.

Note on Mass Burial

Mass burial involves collecting carcasses from multiple affected premises and placing them in a

large burial unit. The disposal unit must meet the criteria for a Subtitle D landfill, including

leachate and landfill gas collection and management systems. During the 2001 FMD outbreak in 

the UK, approximately 20 percent (1.3 million carcasses) of FMD-infected carcasses were

disposed using mass burial. Siting, permitting, designing, and constructing a Subtitle D landfill

requires extensive site assessment, professional engineering design, and rigorous quality control 

during construction. The process takes a significant amount of time and funds, and the closed 

disposal unit requires long-term monitoring and acceptance of future environmental liability by

the property owner. It is likely more cost-effective and efficient to establish an agreement with 

an existing Subtitle D landfill than to site, permit, design, and build a new one in the face of an 

emergency.

See the Cleaning and Disinfection SOP:

go.usdatraining.com/SOP_CD and the Biosecurity SOP: go.usdatraining.com/SOP_Biosecurity
7-1

SECTION 7 Mobile Treatment

Carcass Management: Mobile Treatment Checklist

Contact all appropriate mobile treatment technology vendors.

 Verify the units are available for deployment to your site.

 Verify your ability to meet all site/utility requirements.

 Verify units can be fully disinfected after use. 

 Verify the units have adequate capacity to meet your needs. 

 If the capacity is less than needed, can the carcasses be stored/refrigerated while awaiting disposal? 

 Verify the availability of skilled operators and spare parts to keep the units operational. 

 Verify the unit can be set-up on the site (e.g., the site has appropriate grading)

If so, is the technology permitted by the state environmental agency?

If so, can the permit conditions be met? 

If so, can the process byproducts be readily disposed?

If mobile treatment is an option, see On-Site Treatment/Burial training module at go.usdatraining.com/

Disposal and implement. If not, continue to Sixth Option.

 Developed by USDA, DHS, and the 3D IPT
MOBILE TREATMENT

7-2

Overview of Mobile Treatment Technologies

Mobile treatment technologies can offer alternative, innovative, and immediate approaches to disposing 

of animal carcasses on-site, particularly in response to emergency situations. There are several types 

defined below:

INCINERATION

Air-curtain incineration:

blowing high velocity 

air across and down at 

an optimum angle into 

a firebox pit, creating 

an air curtain on top

and a rotational 

turbulence within the 

firebox

Gasification:

the waste mass is 

destroyed in multiple 

chambers including a 

primary (combustion) 

chamber followed by a

secondary (gasification)

RENDERING

The process of 

converting animal 

carcasses into carcass 

meal (protein-based 

solids), melted fat or 

tallow, and water

ALKALINE 

HYDROLYSIS

Involves processing 

carcasses at high 

temperature, high 

pressure, and high pH 

to convert the proteins, 

nucleic acids, and lipids 

of the tissues to a sterile 

aqueous solution and 

solid by-products

STEAM OR 

MICROWAVE 

STERILIZATION

Uses the direct 

application of steam or 

multiple, high-energy 

microwave generators 

to treat the disposal 

waste

DISADVANTAGES

ADVANTAGES

• Availability of resources and equipment may be limited

• Accessibility to equipment may be impeded depending on vendor proximity to the on-site location

• May need specially skilled operators who can keep equipment running and who are trained in biosafety 

and biosecurity

• Level, paved areas may be needed to set up equipment and stage materials

• Availability and/or sources of spare parts for back-up equipment may be limited

• Extensive utilities may be required, such as fuel and electric for operations and support equipment

• Some methods may be limited by the volume of carcasses they can accommodate

• Some technologies may require preprocessing of carcasses and disposal of byproducts

• Easy to implement due to portability of units

• Inactivates pathogens

• Reduces the risk of disease spread due to limited movement and limited handling of infected material

• Environmentally favorable

• Self-contained units are generally acceptable to the public

On-Site Burial and Treatment Course
8-1

SECTION 8 Landfills

Carcass Management: Off-Site Permitted Landfill Checklist

Consult with state environmental agency for landfill advice.

Access a comprehensive list of landfills using the I-WASTE Tool at go.usdatraining.com/I-WASTE. 

 Log on to the I-WASTE Tool and obtain a password if you do not currently have one. 

 Enter userid and password.

 Choose treatment and disposal facilities button on the lower left.

 Enter filter criteria such as “facility type (e.g., rendering, incinerators, or landfill)”

 Note that construction debris landfills are not suitable for carcass disposal, and hazardous waste 

landfills are not necessary unless the carcasses are contaminated with a hazardous material causing 

them to be classified as hazardous

 Enter State or EPA region, and click “View List of Facilities” button.

Contact facilities and determine if they will accept your livestock or poultry and meet some or all of your 

capacity needs.

 If there is insufficient capacity, consider fast-tracking expansion of existing landfill or permitting of 

new landfill for this purpose.

 Consider potential environmental and biosecurity concerns.

 Verify with state environmental agency that landfill has no outstanding permit violations.

 Procure landfill services through appropriate Incident Management Team branch.

If the landfill will accept the material, arrange for biosecure transport. 

 Obtain controlled movement permit for transport of infected carcasses

 Determine type of transport vehicles required. If the waste must travel on public roads, it should 

be transported in closed, leak-resistant trucks or dumpsters. Secondary containment may be 

needed, depending on the type of waste being transported. See Landfill Disposal Guidance at 

go.usdatraining.com/HPAI_landfill.

 Work with Depopulation Group Supervisor within the Incident Command System to determine how 

many animals can be depopulated per day and how many trucks will be needed for transport per 

day, ensuring the rates are about the same. If not, arrange for covered, leak-resistant storage.

 Pre-identify transport routes to minimize exposure to susceptible premises.

If permitted landfilling is an option, see the Secure Transport and Off-Site Treatment/Burial training 

modules at go.usdatraining.com/Disposal and implement off-site permitted landfilling. If not, continue 

to Seventh Option.

 Developed by USDA, DHS, and the 3D IPT
LANDFILLS

8-2

1

BACKGROUND

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu, is a foreign animal 

disease caused by influenza A viruses. These viruses are found naturally in wild bird populations. 

Wild birds act as reservoirs, circulating these viruses between each other, sometimes with no

clinical signs. However, HPAI can be transmitted to domestic chickens and turkeys, which may 

result in an outbreak. The USDA is the lead federal agency in responding to foreign animal 

diseases, such as HPAI. 

PURPOSE

The intent of this guidance is to provide recommended waste acceptance practices for landfill 

disposal of HPAI infected carcasses. In an outbreak, all carcasses must be disposed of in a

timely, biosecure, aesthetically acceptable, and environmentally responsible manner. Permitted 

landfills are an important option for disposal during an outbreak. These landfills must have 

necessary environmental controls to manage carcasses. In addition, strict biosecurity procedures 

must be followed during transportation and disposal. 

PROTECTION OF LANDFILL OPERATORS

While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has determined that risk for human 

infection from the 2014–2015 HPAI outbreak strains is low (see the CDC Interim Guidance for 

Landfill Workers in the United States Disposing of Poultry Carcasses During Outbreaks of HPAI),

the CDC does recommend landfill operators take appropriate precautions for those involved in

disposal operations. If landfills are used to dispose of carcasses during an HPAI outbreak, 

landfill operators should follow CDC’s guidelines, which are available in this section or by visiting

www.aphis.usda.gov/fadprep.

GENERAL LANDFILLING PROCESS

All HPAI landfill operations will be supervised by personnel from USDA or State Departments of

Agriculture. Contractors can be hired through the USDA to provide roll offs and other equipment 

at farms, CDL truck drivers (to transport roll offs to and from landfills), and personnel to perform 

cleaning and disinfection (C&D) of all conveyances. Contracted workers may also instruct truck 

drivers onsite, under the direction of landfill management. 

The landfill will determine the amount of carcasses and waste materials they will accept from an

infected farm. Waste materials may include manure, eggs, litter, left over feed, egg flats, pallets, 

used PPE, and C&D supplies. The landfill will also control the frequency of deliveries. 

Communication will be established between landfill management, State or federal site managers 

and/or case managers at an infected premises, and the USDA APHIS contracting office. 

Deliveries to and from the landfill are coordinated in advance between the landfill and the State or

federal site manager on an infected premises. 

FY2016 HPAI Response 

Landfill Disposal Guidance—

Recommended Waste Acceptance 

Practices for Landfills

April 18, 2016

Landfill Disposal Guidance—

Recommended Waste Acceptance 

Practices for Landfills

go.usdatraining.com/HPAI_landfill

in this section

Developed by USDA, Iowa DNR and Indiana Department of Environmental Management
LANDFILLS

8-3

2

Landfill Reimbursement

USDA APHIS may pay or reimburse landfills for operations that occur in addition to the normal

course of business. This could include the following expenses, which will be negotiated at the

time services are required:

 building temporary roads and entrances/exits dedicated to HPAI operations,

 purchasing additional liability insurance policies,

 hazing scavenger birds, and

 managing predators, pests, and odors related to HPAI waste disposal.

These items have been covered in the past, and will be negotiated with the landfill in

advance, when farms have tested positive and emergency funding is made available. Any

interested landfills should register as a federal contractor by:

1. Obtaining a DUNS number by visiting http://www.dnb.com/get-a-duns-number.html.

2. Registering at www.sam.gov (select “register/update entity” in the middle of the

screen).

All entities must register in SAM to be paid. It takes an hour or two to register and then several

days for the system to update.

Producers may choose to contract directly with landfills. Producers should check with their 

APHIS representative regarding reimbursement at the time of an outbreak prior to any 

expenditures. 

Guidelines for State Regulators

State Departments of Environmental Protection or Natural Resources typically determine the

guidelines for containment liners, leachate management, grey water management, timelines for

covering contaminated materials, the depth of covering, modifications to working faces, and

permits for landfill burial. The USDA can provide suggestions and brief the landfill regulatory

agencies, but ultimately it is the landfill’s responsibility to follow their State’s rules and

regulations. An example of what preparations could be made in advance by State regulatory 

agencies can be found below. 

1. Technical requirements and procedures for landfilling of HPAI wastes are established by 

the State-level regulatory agency responsible for permitting of landfills (State 

environmental agency). These requirements are designed to be protective of human 

health and the environment, to not jeopardize the structural or operational integrity of the 

landfill, and to allow the facility to operate in compliance with their land disposal facility 

permit. Federal/State agencies charged with protecting animal health, biosecurity, and 

disease control are responsible for establishing any additional technical requirements 

and procedures pertaining to their authorities. 

2. The State environmental agency may survey all potentially qualified land disposal 

facilities to determine their interest in accepting HPAI wastes. Information on the 

technical requirements and procedures for land disposal of HPAI wastes is included in 

the communication so landfills can perform an initial evaluation of their facility’s capability 

in regards acceptance of HPAI wastes.

3. The landfill notifies the State environmental agency of its willingness to accept HPAI 

wastes.

4. The State environmental agency meets with landfill representatives to evaluate the 

suitability of their facility to accept HPAI wastes. The evaluation includes the following 

topics:

Developed by USDA, Iowa DNR and Indiana Department of Environmental Management
LANDFILLS

8-4

3

a. Area within the landfill for disposal of HPAI wastes; verification that the area is 

underlain by a leachate collection system.

b. Number of acres available for disposal of HPAI wastes.

c. Thickness of already-disposed waste layer between surface of landfill and leachate 

collection system.

d. Leachate management activities and method for disposal of excess leachate.

e. Logistics of HPAI waste acceptance and coordination of HPAI waste acceptance with 

acceptance of routine waste streams.

f. Gas collection system – location and any necessary operational changes during 

HPAI waste disposal activities to reduce the risk of fires.

g. Mobile incinerator – is landfill facility willing and able to host a mobile incinerator at 

their facility, and if so, determine if a fuel source is available.

h. Public relations and community outreach – discuss how the public and local elected 

officials will be informed of and educated about potential HPAI waste landfilling 

activities at the facility.

5. The State environmental agency informs federal/State agencies charged with protecting 

animal health, biosecurity, and disease control of the landfill facilities deemed technically 

able and willing to accept HPAI wastes for disposal.

TYPICAL EMERGENCY LANDFILLING PROCEDURES, ROLES, AND

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. The landfill agrees to receive infected birds.

2. State provides permits and permit conditions to landfill.

3. USDA contractor visits the landfill to evaluate access, and works with the landfill to:

a. plan traffic routing for trucks carrying HPAI waste,

b. stabilize the roadway if needed,

c. select the location for vehicle C&D, and

d. select C&D wash water disposal option(s).

4. The USDA contractor provides recommendations for road stabilization material in addition

to possible government equipment needed.

5. USDA APHIS awards contract to the landfill.

6. The landfill consults with the USDA APHIS on cost—an agreement is then made to

proceed with any required modifications to handle the HPAI waste.

7. The USDA contractor sets up and operates vehicle C&D station(s).

8. The USDA contractor provides, loads, and disinfects outbound trucks at origin (e.g., 

sealed roll-offs lined with plastic to allow bags to slip out; biozip (or similar) bag placed in 

roll-off over liner; 1 foot wood chips placed in bottom of bag; birds loaded to within 1 foot

of top of roll-off; biozip (or similar) bag sealed; roll-off disinfected and tarped).

9. USDA provides a permit for the truck to leave the infected premises.

10. The USDA contractor or subcontractor drives the truck to the landfill and prepares to

dump where directed by landfill staff or designee.

11. The USDA contractor uses heavy equipment to open roll-off gate.

12. The truck driver tips load where directed.

13. The USDA contractor covers the waste material.

14. The landfill manages leachate in accordance with permit conditions.

15. The USDA contractor or subcontractor drives the truck to the C&D station for washing

prior to leaving landfill.

16. The USDA contractor or subcontractor disposes of C&D wash water in accordance with

the landfill and State requirements (likely at the municipal waste water treatment plant).

17. USDA APHIS pays the contractor and landfill when their invoices are approved.

Developed by USDA, Iowa DNR and Indiana Department of Environmental Management
LANDFILLS

8-5

4

Aerial View of Landfill Staging

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

Please see the following websites for further information concerning HPAI:

 FAD PReP Material and References

 USDA APHIS Avian Influenza.

Active MSW FIll Boundary

Trench Disposal

Truck Tire Decon.

Decon. Station

Clean Roll-Off Staging

Command Area

Full Roll-Off Staging

Roll-Off Staging

Decon. Station

Scale House

go.usdatraining.com/HPAI

go.usdatraining.com/FADPReP

Developed by USDA, Iowa DNR and Indiana Department of Environmental Management
LANDFILLS

8-6

CDC Interim Guidance for Landfill Workers in the United States Disposing of Poultry 

Carcasses During Outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

A. Purpose and Background

The purpose of this document is to provide information and guidance for workers at landfill sitesin the United 

States where poultry carcasses are disposed of during outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) 

A(H5N2) virus. Landfill workers include mechanical equipment operators, individuals standing on the surface of 

the landfill when carcasses are deposited, and personnel having direct physical contact with AI virus-infected 

bird carcassesor potentially infected materials.

Avian Influenza (AI) Viruses

 Avian influenza (AI) viruses circulate naturally among wild birds, particularly the waterfowlreservoir,

and readily enter domestic bird/poultry populations.

 Most AI viruses are low pathogenic and do not cause serious illness among infected birds or people.

 Highly pathogenic AI viruses often cause severe illness and death in infected poultry.

 AI viruses can spread quickly among birds.

 AI virus infections of people are rare, but can occur. 

The HPAI H5N2 virus that caused poultry outbreaks during 2014-2015 in North America is an emerging virus. 

Preliminary laboratory studies indicate that this HPAI H5N2 virus is not well-adapted to humans. However, 

sporadic severe and fatal human respiratory illness from infections with other closely related HPAI A(H5) viruses 

(e.g. H5N1, H5N6) have occurred in other countries. Most human infections with avian influenza A viruses have 

occurred in persons not using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) who had exposures consisting of 

either 1) direct physical contact with infected birds or surfaces contaminated by the viruses; 2) being in close 

proximity (e.g. within 2 meters) to infected birds; or 3) visiting a live poultry market. Although no human 

infections with HPAI H5N2 virus have been reported to date, direct or close (e.g. within 2 meters) contact

without PPE to infected birds or virus-contaminated environments may increase the risk of human infection. To 

reduce their risk of HPAI H5N2 virus infection, landfill workers should use appropriate PPE when disposing of 

poultry carcasses during outbreaks of HPAI. The following guidance, although developed for an outbreak of HPAI 

A(H5N2) virus, also applies to disposal of poultry carcasses during outbreaks of HPAI H5N8 and HPAI H5N1 

viruses. Consultation and close coordination with public health departments are recommended. 

Key points: To reduce the risk of HPAI virus infection, landfill workers should do all of the following:

Wear recommended personal protective equipment (PPE): gloves, boots, protective coveralls, goggles and a 

respirator) when in direct contact with infected birds, poultry carcasses, and/or poultry feces or litter;

 Avoid unprotected direct physical contact with ill birds or poultry carcasses;

 Avoid unprotected direct physical contact with bird droppings/feces from HPAI virus-infected birds;

 Wash hands with soap and water after removing gloves and other PPE. If soap and water are not readily 

available, alcohol-based hand rubs may be used, but must be followed by washing with soap and water 

once it becomes available because hand sanitizers do not reduce organic load (e.g., dirt);

CDC Interim Guidance for Landfill Workers in the United States 

Disposing of Poultry Carcasses During Outbreaks of Highly 

Pathogenic Avian Influenza
LANDFILLS

8-7

 Report any illness that occurs within 10 days of the past exposure to poultry carcasses or potentiallyinfected materials(see section C. below for more details).

B. Guidance for landfill workers disposing of poultry carcasses

1. Bury the AI virus-infected bird carcasses and materials immediately (within 30 minutes) after unloading 

at the landfill.

2. Whenever possible, avoid physical handling of the carcasses by using mechanical equipment such as 

trucks and back hoes with enclosed cabs.

3. All landfill workers should:

a) Use PPE including: properly-fitted safety goggles, disposable gloves, boots, a NIOSH-certified 

respirator (e.g., N95), and disposable fluid-resistant1 coveralls.

(1) NIOSH-certified N95 (or higher) respirators are recommended for landfill workers who have 

contact with AI virus-infected carcasses or potentially infected materials. 

Respirator use should be in the context of a complete respiratory protection program in 

accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Respiratory 

Protection standard (29 CFR 1910.134) and other requirements. Staff that will need to wear 

N95 (or higher) respirators should be medically-cleared, trained, and fit-tested for respirator 

use. Detailed information on respiratory protection programs, including fit testing procedures, 

can be accessed at OSHA’s Respiratory Protection eTool: 

(www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/respiratory).

Training topics should include all of the following:

(a) Proper fit-testing, wearing and use of respirators;

(b) Safe removal of respirators;

(c) Safe disposal of disposable respirators or cleaning and disinfection of reusable respirators;

(d) Medical contraindications to respirator use. 

(2) Reusable PPE should be:

(a) Cleaned until visible dirt is removed, and then

 1 Fluid-resistant coveralls should be made of fabric that passes:

 AATCC 42 ≤ 1 g and AATCC 127 ≥ 50 cm H2O or EN 20811 ≥ 50 cm H2O; or 

 ASTM F1670 (13.8 kPa); or

 ISO 16603 ≥ 3.5 kPA 
LANDFILLS

8-8

(b) Disinfected with an EPA approved disinfectant that has label claims against influenza A 

viruses (http://www.epa.gov/oppad001/influenza-disinfectants.html) according to the 

manufacturer’s instructions. 

(3) Respirator use is not necessary inside enclosed cabs when the cab’sfiltration system has been 

independently evaluated against the NIOSH leak test method for enclosed cab filtration systems 

and it can be demonstrated that the cab provides the same, or higher level, of protection as an 

N95 respirator. The NIOSH leak test method for enclosed cab filtration systems are available on 

the web at http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/mining/UserFiles/works/pdfs/2012-145.pdf.

(4) All PPE should be used in accordance with OSHA regulations found at 29 CFR 1910 Subpart I 

(Personal Protective Equipment). Workers should receive training on and demonstrate an 

understanding of when to use PPE; what PPE is necessary; how to properly put on, use, take off, 

properly dispose of, and maintain PPE; and the limitations of PPE.

(5) Landfill workers who may have direct contact with carcasses or potentially infected materials 

(e.g. individuals responsible for opening the roll-off containerfor unloading) should wear a 

disposable impermeable2 coverall in place of the fluid-resistant coverall referenced above or an

apron over the fluid-resistant coverall to protect against exposure to liquids.

b) Safely remove PPE after burial in sequence:

(1) Remove and dispose of the apron, if worn;

(2) Clean and disinfect boots;

(3) Remove boots;

(4) Remove and dispose of the coverall;

(5) Remove and dispose of gloves;

(6) Wash hands with soap and water;

(7) Remove goggles and respirator;

(8) Clean and disinfect reusable goggles and respirator;

(9) Wash hands with soap and water again.

c) Put on and take off PPE in separate clean areas;

d) Perform good hand hygiene such as hand-washing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based 

hand rub after removing PPE;

e) Avoid touching eyes, mouth, nose after touching any contaminated material while wearing PPE;

f) Do not eat, drink, smoke, or use the bathroom while wearing PPE.

 2 Impermeable coveralls should be made of fabric and seams/closures that pass

 ASTM F1671 (13.8 kPA); or

 ISO 16604 ≥ 14 kPa
LANDFILLS

8-9

C. Reporting of illness

1. Workers at the landfill should monitor their health starting on the first day of exposure and for ten days 

after the last exposure to material and poultry carcasses from affected farms, and report any illness

signs or symptoms (e.g. fever or feeling feverish, cough, runny nose, sore throat, headache, muscle 

aches, eye redness, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, diarrhea, etc.) to the local and state public 

health department as soon as possible. 

2. Additional information about avian influenza and worker protection can be found at: 

a) NIOSH Avian Influenza: http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/avianflu/

b) OSHA Guidance for Protecting Employees Against Avian Flu: 

https://www.osha.gov/dsg/guidance/avian-flu.html

c) CDC Information on Avian Influenza: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/

d) CDC H5 Viruses in the United States: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/h5/index.htm

e) CDC Prevention and Treatment of Avian Influenza A Viruses in People 

http://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/prevention.htm

f) CDC Interim Guidance on Influenza Antiviral Chemoprophylaxis of Persons Exposed to Birds with 

Avian Influenza A Viruses Associated with Severe Human Disease or with the Potential to Cause 

Severe Human Disease http://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/guidance-exposed-persons.htm

g) OSHA Guidance Update on Protecting Employees from Avian Flu (Avian Influenza) Viruses: 

http://www.osha.gov/Publications/3323-10N-2006-English-07-17-2007.html

h) OSHA Safety and Health Topics Page for Avian Flu: http://www.osha.gov/dsg/guidance/avianflu.html

i) OSHA Avian Flu Fact Sheet: http://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/data_AvianFlu/avian_flu_factsheet.pdf

j) OSHA Avian Flu Quick Card: http://www.osha.gov/Publications/3306-10-06-english-06-27-2007.html

k) OSHA Safety and Health Information Bulletin (SHIB) on Avian Flu: 

https://www.osha.gov/dts/shib/shib121304.html

D. References

1. Senne DA, Panigrahy B, Morgan RL. Effect of composting poultry carcasses on survival of exotic avian 

viruses: highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus and adenovirus of egg drop syndrome-76. 

Avian Dis. 1994 Oct-Dec;38(4):733-7.

2. Guan J, Chan M, Grenier C, Wilkie DC, Brooks BW, Spencer JL. Survival of avian influenza and 

Newcastle disease viruses in compost and at ambient temperatures based on virus isolation and 

real-time reverse transcriptase PCR. Avian Dis. 2009 Mar;53(1):26-33.
LANDFILLS

8-10

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES: 14. DISPOSAL

Attachment 14.C Landfilling

SOP Manual 14-50 Disposal

Attachment 14.C Landfilling

Planning

2. Identify permitted 

1. Contact state environmental agency for approval to landfill waste.

Subtitle D landfills in the vicinity of the affected premises (see EPA’s 

I-WASTE Tool at http://www2.ergweb.com/bdrtool/login.asp for a database of disposal 

facilities).

3. Contact identified landfills and ensure operator will accept catastrophic FAD mortalities, 

and the conditions of acceptance.

4. Verify the availability of adequate carcass storage facilities such as refrigerated rooms, 

transport vehicles, freezers or other means of carcass preservation.

5. Identify haulers who: 

a. Are equipped to haul carcasses in accordance with State and Federal laws.

b. Can provide secure, leak-resistant, covered, transport for the infected carcasses and 

contaminated materials.

c. Employ appropriately licensed drivers.

d. Possess vehicles in good mechanical condition and capable of carrying the load 

without difficulty.

e. Have vehicles which can be covered with a tarpaulin if they do not have closed tops. 

f. Employ drivers adequately trained in biosecurity (see 49 CFR 172 and 173 DOT 

regulations for further guidance).

g. Have an emergency plan and associated supplies which address spills/excess leakage; 

vehicle break-downs; traffic accidents; adverse weather conditions; and terrorist attacks.

Operations

1. Don all required PPE as detailed in the Site-Specific Health and Safety/PPE Plan.

2. Prior to loading each vehicle, confirm with landfill operator(s) that they will accept the

load of disease-infected carcasses. Inform landfill contact person about space, personnel, 

safety, and biosecurity requirements.

3. If the vehicle is not leak-resistant with a sealed cover, line the vehicle with plastic sheeting

or bags and place one foot of absorbent bedding material over the liner to cushion the load 

and minimize the risk of puncturing the liner.

4. Puncture/vent the carcass by stabbing the area posterior to the ribs and the thoracic and 

abdominal cavities.

5. Load punctured carcasses into lined/leak-resistant vehicle leaving at least one foot of space .

6. Seal full load.

7. Disinfect exterior of vehicle.

at the top.

USDA FADPReP Disposal SOP
LANDFILLS

8-11

SOP Manual 14-51 Disposal

8. Prepare all placards and manifests in accordance with applicable regulations

9. Obtain controlled movement permit from state.

.

10. Maintain a log of all shipments including

a. the amount and type of material hauled;

b. address of originating premises;

c. location of landfill, contact name and contact phone number;

d. transport vehicle license and registration numbers;

e. driver name and contact information;

f. supervisor’s name and signature;

g. C&D checklist;

h. time/date of departure from premises and arrival at disposal site;

i. unique reference number for each load; and 

j. any unusual circumstances.

11. Transport load to the landfill. using transport routes that minimize exposure to susceptible premises.

12. Check in at weigh station.

13. Obtain receipt for weight of load and any tipping fees.

14. Proceed to working face of landfill as directed by landfill staff.

15. Have site operators open the tailgate; not the driver.

16. Tip the vehicle into the hollow under the working face or as directed by the landfill 

operator.

17. Landfill operators should cover carcasses immediately.

18. Proceed to designated biosecurity station to disinfect vehicle before leaving the landfill.

See the Biosecurity and Health and Safety/PPE SOPs.

19. Properly clean and disinfect all site machinery used in the operation. See the NAHEMS

Guidelines: C&D and the C&D SOP.

20. All individuals involved in the disposal process must wear appropriate PPE. See the 

NAHEMS Guidelines: Health and Safety, NAHEMS Guidelines: PPE, and the Health 

and Safety/PPE SOP. 

Table 14.C-1 compares recommended actions for handling and disposing of carcasses for

routine, noninfectious material and potentially infectious material.

USDA FADPReP Disposal SOP
LANDFILLS

8-12

SOP Manual 14-52 Disposal

Figure 14.C-1. Recommended Actions for Handling and Disposal of Carcasses 

During Burial and Landfill15

 15 CAST [Council for Agricultural Science and Technology]. “Ruminant Carcass Disposal Options for Routine and 

Catastrophic Mortality.” Issue Paper, No. 41: January 2009. http://www.cast-science.org/

USDA FADPReP Disposal SOP
9-1

SECTION 9 Rendering

Carcass Management: Rendering Checklist

Will state environmental agency approve rendering?

If so, see a complete list of renderers at go.usdatraining.com/NRA or the EPA database at 

go.usdatraining.com/I-WASTE. 

 Log on to the I-WASTE Tool and obtain a password if you do not currently have one. 

 Enter userid and password.

 Choose treatment and disposal facilities button on the lower left.

 Enter filter criteria such as “facility type (e.g., rendering, incinerators, or landfill)”

 Enter State or EPA region, and click “View List of Facilities” button or map facilities.

Contact facilities and determine if they will accept your livestock or poultry and meet some or all of your 

capacity needs.

 If the capacity is less than needed, can the carcasses be stored/refrigerated while awaiting disposal?

If so, arrange for storage and transport to rendering facility for disposal. 

 Determine if any permits are required for transport of infected carcasses.

 Determine type of transport vehicles required. If the waste must travel on public roads, it should 

be transported in closed, leak-proof trucks or dumpsters. Secondary containment may be needed, 

depending on the type of waste being transported. Contact National Veterinary Stockpile.

 Work with Depopulation Group Supervisor within the Incident Command System to determine how 

many animals can be depopulated per day and how many trucks will be needed for transport per 

day, ensuring the rates are about equal. If not, arrange for leak-resistant, covered storage.

 Pre-identify transport routes to minimize exposure of susceptible premises.

If rendering is an option, see Secure Transport and Off-Site Treatment/Burial training modules at 

go.usdatraining.com/Disposal and implement rendering. If not, continue to Eighth Option.

 Developed by USDA, DHS, and the 3D IPT
RENDERING

9-2

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES: 14. DISPOSAL

Attachment 14.B Rendering

SOP Manual 14-48 Disposal

Attachment 14.B Rendering

In carcass rendering, whole carcasses are mechanically crushed into 2-in3 cubes of tissues, 

broken down thermally, and sterilized in a sealed and controllable container using pressurized 

steam.13 The process converts the carcasses into 60% water, 20% fat/tallow and 20% meat/bone

meal, which is often used as animal feed. Because the rendering plant will likely be located off

the affected premises, the carcasses will have to be securely transported to the rendering plant.

Planning

1. Identify carcass rendering plant(s) in the region of the affected premises; ideally one that 

participates in the Animal Protein Producers Industry (APPI) program to test for

Salmonella in the meat and bone meal and has at least one person on site who has 

received training by the APPI or a certified trainer from an equivalent program. Ensure

that the rendering plant has a deodorizing system.

2. Develop a memorandum of understanding with nearby counties if county lines must be 

crossed to reach the identified rendering plant.

3. Coordinate with the managers of the rendering plants about rendering infected carcasses.

Discuss with the managers at the rendering plant:

a. The responsible party for C&D after rendering is complete. 

b. Potential compensation for use of the facility.

c. The volume of carcasses accepted per day.

4. Make all necessary arrangements for the transportation and delivery of carcasses to the

plant, making use of the renderer’s hauling service if appropriate.

5. Ensure that all rendering plant personnel are trained on proper procedures for rendering

infected carcasses, biosecurity procedures, work safety issues, and the use of PPE. If not,

6. Train the rendering plant personnel on biosecurity, work safety issues, and the use of PPE 

based on the Code of Practice approved October 18, 2004, by the North American 

Rendering Industry,

14 as well as the Site Specific Disposal Plan, the NAHEMS

Guidelines: Biosecurity, Biosecurity SOP, NAHEMS Guidelines: Health and Safety,

NAHEMS Guidelines: PPE, and the Health and Safety/PPE SOP or use engineering controls 

7. Have a Disposal Team Member available to facilitate the rendering process of diseaseinfected carcasses.

8. Employ biosecurity zones in the plant to minimize the risk of contamination from 

carcass materials entering, and of finished products exiting, the processing plant.

 13http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/GuidanceComplianceEnforcement/ComplianceEnforcement/BovineSpongif

ormEncephalopathy/ucm167655.htm. 14 http://www.nationalrenderers.org/biosecurity-appi/.

to contain the system so exposures are minimized.

See National Renderers Association Directory

USDA FADPReP Disposal SOP
RENDERING

9-3

SOP Manual 14-49 Disposal

9. Ensure all rendering permit conditions are met and ensure pathogens that may be

emitted as aerosols from the process, particularly near the grinders are contained.

Operations

1. Don all required PPE as detailed in the Site-Specific Health and Safety/PPE Plan.

2. If possible, use the rendering company’s carcass pickup service. Regardless of the

transportation provider, the transport of infected carcasses off premises must follow the

transportation procedures outlined in Section 14.4.3.5.3.

3. Perform the rendering process within 24 to 48 hours of an animal’s death or as advised 

by rendering company.

4. Control and record the input rate relative to the size of the rendering vessel and verify

that all locations in the vessel reach the minimum temperature and cooking time to 

inactivate the virus.

5. Properly maintain the carcass-receiving and finished-product sections as “dirty” and 

“clean” areas of the rendering plant and keep them separated.

6. Workers cannot move between the “dirty” and “clean” areas without personnel 

decontamination. See the NAHEMS Guidelines: Biosecurity or the Biosecurity SOP.

7. Routinely sanitize the equipment and maintain the tools used on the processing lines and 

in the facilities.

8. Prevent the drainage of liquids from dirty to clean areas to avoid contaminating the 

finished products and their transportation system.

9. Implement procedures to monitor odors and investigate and resolve odor-related 

complaints.

10. Monitor the cooking process.

11. Plan to dispose of the rendered products unless specifically authorized to use for pet feed.

Disposal options for rendered product include composting, landfilling, or recycling at a 

cement kiln.

12. Thoroughly clean and disinfect all of the rendering plant equipment. See the NAHEMS

Guidelines: C&D and the C&D SOP and any additional standards for returning the plant 

to normal production. Heating the plant to 120 F for 7 days may also be acceptable.

See go.usdatraining.com/NAHEMS_Biosecurity and go.usdatraining.com/SOP_Biosecurity

Section 14.4.3.5.3 Transport

USDA FADPReP Disposal SOP
RENDERING

9-4

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES: 14. DISPOSAL

Attachment 14.4.3.5.3 Transport

Transport vehicles will be needed to transport items (carcasses, other materials) to the disposal site 

whether it is on or off the premises. If the waste must travel on public roads, it should be transported in 

closed, leak-resistant trucks or dumpsters. Secondary containment may be needed, depending on the 

type of waste being transported. Consult a qualified waste management professional when developing 

this section of the plan. Some other transport planning considerations are listed below:

 Do disposal facilities selected for this premises have any special requirements for incoming waste shipments?

 

 

 

 Have the disposal facilities agreed to accept the type and amount of waste you plan to send them and are they 

permitted appropriately?

 

 Have members of the disposal team visited the facility to ensure it is operated in accordance with all applicable 

laws and regulations?

 

 Is there an existing contract or agreement in place with the disposal facility to receive the material?

 

 Are all permit, agreement, and/or contract conditions delineated and will the shipments meet the conditions? 

If not, what corrective actions would be needed?

 

 

 

 Are haulers to be used for the response properly equipped to haul carcasses in accordance with all applicable laws?

 

 Are transport vehicles designed to handle the materials to be transported?

 

 Are the drivers adequately trained in biosecurity (see 49 Code of Federal Regulations [CFR] 172 and 173 

Department of Transportation [DOT] regulations for further guidance)?

 

 Can two-way communications be maintained with the hauler during transport?

 

 Do shipments require law enforcement escorts?

 

 What travel routes will be used from the premises to the disposal site? Consider road construction, 

neighborhoods, and densely populated areas, as well as susceptible farms.

 

 

 

USDA FADPReP Disposal SOP
RENDERING

9-5

 Has an alternate travel route been identified?

 

 

 

 

 What procedures will be followed if the vehicle is damaged during transit?

 

 

 

 

 Does the receiving facility have sufficient space for incoming vehicles to avoid causing traffic disruptions on 

access roads? Does it have a secure location for transport vehicles, freezers, or other means of storage if there 

is a delay of more than 1 day?

 

 Coordinate with State and local transportation authorities to verify any transport restrictions and obtain any 

necessary permit requirements and document these conditions in the site-specific plan.

 

 How will vehicles be cleaned and disinfected before leaving the affected premises and after materials have 

been offloaded at the disposal site? See go.usdatraining.com/NAHEMS_Biosecurity and go.usdatraining.com/

SOP_Biosecurity for more details.

 

 

 

 

 How is the waste classified for transport? What DOT packaging standards apply? Are all standards 

consistently met, including labeling, placarding, and manifesting?

 

 

 

 

 How will vehicle loading be performed in order to avoid releasing biological agent(s) to the environment?

 

 

 

 

 How will transport vehicle traffic be minimized into the Control Area?

 

 

 

 USDA FADPReP Disposal SOP
RENDERING

9-6

Example Rendering Plant Biosecurity Protocol

Infected materials will have temporal separation 

from the general rendering materials. They will be 

the last materials run in the plant at the end of a 

week. This will minimize cross contamination.

Following offloading, the trailers will be washed per 

incident-specific protocols and will be cleaned at a 

commercial truck wash prior to returning to service.

Infected material trailers will be sealed, tarped, and 

loaded per rendering norms or University of 

Minnesota Risk Assessment. 

Access points between raw material processing and 

finished product grinding and load out will be limited 

to one or two hand wash/ boot wash station(s). 

All other access points will be sealed and no longer 

used. Workers will be required to clean and sanitize 

their hands and boots prior to entering the finished 

product handling area.

Developed by Texas A&M University. Source: L. Miller, personal communication, 2014
10-1

SECTION 10 Off-Site Incineration

Carcass Management: Off-Site Incineration Checklist

Will state environmental agency approve incineration?

If so, see a complete list of incinerators at the EPA database at go.usdatraining.com/I-WASTE. 

 Log on to the I-WASTE Tool and obtain a password if you do not currently have one. 

 Enter userid and password.

 Choose treatment and disposal facilities button on the lower left.

 Enter filter criteria such as “facility type (e.g. rendering, incinerators, or landfill)”

 Enter State or EPA region, and click “View List of Facilities” button or map facilities.

Contact air authorities to verify operations are not in violation of their air permits.

If the facilities are compliant, contact them and determine if they will accept your livestock or poultry 

and meet some or all of your capacity needs.

If so, arrange for transport to off-site incineration facility for disposal. 

 Determine if any permits are required for transport of infected carcasses.

 Determine type of transport vehicles required. If the waste must travel on public roads, it should 

be transported in closed, leak-proof trucks or dumpsters. Secondary containment may be needed, 

depending on the type of waste being transported. See University of Minnesota Risk Assessment

 Work with Depopulation Group Supervisor within the Incident Command System to determine how 

many animals can be depopulated per day and how many trucks will be needed for transport per 

day, ensuring the rates are about equal. If not, arrange for leak-resistant, covered storage.

 Pre-identify transport routes to minimize exposure of susceptible premises.

If off-site incineration is an option see the Secure Transport and Off-Site Treatment/Burial training modules 

at go.usdatraining.com/Disposal and implement off-site incineration. If not, and you still need to dispose 

of animals, inform Operations Chief and discuss alternate strategies such as vaccination. Return to First 

Option and repeat cycle until all carcasses can be managed.

 Developed by USDA, DHS, and the 3D IPT
OFF-SITE INCINERATION

10-2

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES: 14. DISPOSAL

Attachment 14.D Fixed Incineration

SOP Manual 14-53 Disposal

Attachment 14.D Fixed Incineration

Planning

1. Identify permitted pathological waste incinerators in the vicinity of the affected premises 

(see EPA’s I-WASTE Tool at http://www2.ergweb.com/bdrtool/login.asp for a database of 

disposal facilities).

2. C

2. Contact state environmental agency for approval.

ontact identified facilities and ensure operator will accept catastrophic FAD mortalities, 

and the conditions of acceptance.

3. Verify the availability of adequate carcass storage facilities such as refrigerated rooms, 

transport vehicles, freezers or other means of carcass preservation if storage will be needed.

4. Identify haulers who: 

a. Are equipped to haul carcasses in accordance with State and Federal laws.

b. Can provide secure, leak resistant transport for the infected carcasses and

contaminated materials. 

c. Employ appropriately licensed drivers.

d. Possess vehicles in good mechanical condition and capable of carrying the load 

without difficulty.

e. Have vehicles which can be covered with a tarpaulin if they do not have closed tops. 

f. Employ drivers adequately trained in biosecurity (see 49 CFR 172 and 173 DOT 

regulations for further guidance).

g. Have an emergency plan and associated supplies which address spills/excess leakage; 

vehicle break-downs; traffic accidents; adverse weather conditions; terrorist attacks.

Operations

1. Don all required PPE as detailed in the Site-Specific Health and Safety/PPE Plan.

2. Prior to loading each vehicle, confirm with incinerator operator(s) that they will accept 

the load of infected carcasses.

3. Inform contact person about space, personnel, safety, and biosecurity requirements.

4. If the vehicle is not leak-resistant with a secure cover, line the vehicle with plastic sheeting or bags

and place one foot of absorbent bedding material over the liner to cushion the load and 

minimize the risk of puncturing the liner.

5. Puncture/vent the carcass by stabbing the area posterior to the ribs and the thoracic and 

abdominal cavities.

6. Load punctured carcasses into leak-resistant or lined vehicle, leaving one foot free space 

7. Securely cover load.

8. Disinfect exterior of vehicle.

at the top.

USDA FADPReP Disposal SOP
OFF-SITE INCINERATION

10-3

SOP Manual 14-54 Disposal

9. P

10. Obtain permit for controlled movement from state.

repare all placards and manifests in accordance with applicable regulations.

11. Maintain a log of all shipments including

a. the amount and type of material hauled;

b. address of originating premises;

c. location of incinerator, contact name, and contact phone number;

d. transport vehicle license and registration numbers;

e. driver name and contact information;

f. supervisor’s name and signature;

g. C&D checklist;

h. time/date of departure from premises and arrival at disposal site;

i. unique reference number for each load; and 

j. any unusual circumstances.

12. Transport load to the incinerator

13. Check in at weigh station if applicable.

14. Obtain receipt for weight of load and any disposal fees.

15. Proceed to unloading area as directed by facility staff.

16. Have site operators open the tailgate; not the driver.

17. The carcasses should be covered immediately and kept covered until they are moved to 

temporary storage or to processing.

18. Incinerate the carcasses in accordance with facility protocols.

19. Ensure the facility follows all biosecurity requirements.

20. Proceed to designated biosecurity station to disinfect vehicle before leaving the facility.

See the Biosecurity and Health and Safety/PPE SOPs.

21. Properly clean and disinfect all site machinery used in the operation. See the NAHEMS

Guidelines: C&D and the C&D SOP.

22. All individuals involved in the disposal process must wear appropriate PPE. See the 

NAHEMS Guidelines: Health and Safety, NAHEMS Guidelines: PPE, and the Health 

and Safety/PPE SOP.

USDA FADPReP Disposal SOP
OFF-SITE INCINERATION

10-4

SOP Manual 14-55 Disposal

Attachment 14.E Air-Curtain Incineration 

Planning

1. Consult with appropriate State regulatory agencies for air quality and solid-waste permits

before initiating operations.

2. Inform any other local authorities about the planned thermal destruction as required.

3. Ensure that equipment, and spare parts, are available for the chosen thermal method.

4. Ensure enough trained personnel are available to maintain continuous operations.

5. Provide appropriate sustenance and housing needs for disposal personnel if necessary.

6. Assuming a mobile air-curtain incinerator will be brought to the affected premises, verify

the availability of air curtain incineration units and carcass storage facilities such as 

refrigerated rooms, transport vehicles, freezers or other means of carcass preservation.

7. Consult with USDA NRCS and evaluate the affected premises for the depth to the water

table and proper soil conditions if trench burners will be used.

8. Use refractory boxes on sites with a high water table or on rocky soil and where trenches 

would be difficult or costly to build.

9. Locate the mobile air-curtain unit in an area that is easily accessible to heavy vehicles 

hauling carcasses and equipment.

10. Gather the appropriate materials such as solid fuels (straw, hay, coal, kindling wood, 

untreated lumber). Base the amount of solid fuels to use on the amount of moisture in the

wood or other organic sources (hay, grain, stalks, and straw) and the fat and moisture

content of the carcasses. Use a fuel-to-carcass weight ratio ranging from 1:1 to 2:1. 

Ensure availability of enough fuel to last 2-3 days or the length of time needed to 

maintain uninterrupted supply.

Operations

1. Don all required PPE as detailed in the Site-Specific Health and Safety/PPE Plan.

2. Build the appropriate sized trench based on equipment vendor recommendations, or use

refractory boxes. See NAHEMS Guidelines: Disposal.

3. Monitor the wind direction before and during the burning operations.

4. Keep workers out of the path of the flame.

5. Handle the ash in the refractory boxes carefully and dispose of it at a burial or land 

application site that has been approved by the appropriate regulatory agency.

6. If a large number of animal carcasses (exceeding a cumulative weight of 1 million 

pounds) require destruction, conduct the thermal destruction at a distance of 2 miles from 

residential buildings, roads, and utilities.

7. Use proper precautions when dealing with certain FADs such as HPAI to prevent 

personnel inhalation of airborne pathogens. Personnel must use proper PPE. See the 

NAHEMS Guidelines: Health and Safety, NAHEMS Guidelines: PPE, and disease

specific Health and Safety/PPE SOPs for more information.

8. Thoroughly clean and disinfect all of the disposal equipment. See the C&D and Biosecurity SOPs.

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES: 14. DISPOSAL

Attachment 14.E Air-Curtain Incineration

USDA FADPReP Disposal SOP
11-1

SECTION 11 Secure Transport

Loading Procedures

See Secure Transport training module at go.usdatraining.com/Disposal and implement transport phase.

complete all paperwork including manifests and/or 

controlled movement permits.

Inspect and line the containers. Seal any holes or spaces Insert Biozip or similar bag.

with duct tape, plastic liner, caulk, or silicone. Return 

containers that you cannot seal.

Disinfect carcasses and/or byproducts to minimize virus 

spread.

Order through ICS Logistics by 10:00 a.m. of the previous 

day. Specify type of delivery, type of container, size of 

waste, delivery time window, bin identification number, 

and contact name and phone number for job site.

Rake one foot of absorbent material on the container floor 

with a heavier concentration near the rear door. Close container and adjust plastic and absorbent material as needed.

PRE-LOADING

 1 2

 3 4

 5 6

PRECAUTIONS • Clean and degrease work area and equipment.

 • Inform driver of all activities.

 • Drivers should wear PPE at all times.

 • Drivers should remain seated in vehicle with windows and doors closed while truck is loaded.

Source: USDA-APHIS Secure Transport Training Module (go.usdatraining.com/transport)
SECURE TRANSPORT

11-2

Load container with carcasses using a skid steer loader and/

or front-end loader. Ensure carcasses are not placed on the 

ground while moving from the staging area to the container. 

Load is full when contents reach maximum weight limit or fill 

container one foot from top of container. 

Seal Biozip bag or similar. 

Load carcasses evenly. Alternate one foot of absorbent 

material with each layer ending with absorbent material.

if container does not have a lid, securely fasten a tarp to the top. Disinfect and inspect vehicle before departure. 

Verify the load is not too large, and there are no 

leaks, cuts, or holes. If the load is dripping, the 

contents must be transferred to a correctly lined 

container.

LOADING

 1 2

 3 4

 5 6

PRECAUTIONS • Sheet roll-off bins on the ground.

 • Use fixed ladders to enter bins.

 • Use at least two people to line bins.

 • Conduct heavy lifting mechanically.

 • Avoid climbing the sides, backs, or onto roll-offs during inspection.

 • Avoid standing or walking on top of carcasses.

Tarp

Plastic

Tarp

Source: USDA-APHIS Secure Transport Training Module (go.usdatraining.com/transport)
SECURE TRANSPORT

11-3

POST-LOADING

PRECAUTIONS • Wear PPE at all times.

 • Ensure drivers turn off engines prior to decontamination.

 • Create a one-way system for decontamination area.

 • Disinfect undercarriage, wheels, and wheel wells.

 • Beware of vehicle movements, disinfectants and spread of disease.

Use pre-arranged route. No unplanned stops are permitted. 

 2

Clean and disinfect the outside of the truck and the container. Decontamination area must be a one-way system. Animal health 

technicians, site managers or case managers will supervise process and issue a permit documenting proper disinfection.

 1
SECURE TRANSPORT

11-4

Information Required 

for a Permit

Additional Requirements 

Prior to Movement

✓ Permit Class — location, e.g., into CA, out 

of CA, or within CA.

✓ Permit Reason — reason for permit, e.g., 

direct to farm, direct to landfill, or into 

commerce.

✓ Origin Premises — Must be in EMRS2.

✓ Destination Premises — Must be in EMRS2.

✓ Items — What is allowed to move, e.g., 

manure/litter, feed, eggs, groups of animals.

✓ Item Class — Further description of item, 

e.g., if the item permitted was “groups 

of animals,” the item class offers further 

information.

✓ Duration/Span of Permit — First 

movement date, as well as how long the 

permit is valid for.

✓ Permits and their associated permitted 

movement may have additional 

requirements that must be met before the 

movement is made.

✓ These records and documentation can be 

uploaded in EMRS2 for review by relevant 

parties.

✓ For example, diagnostic testing or 

mortality reports from the premises may 

be required.

✓ Diagnostic testing results can be entered 

into EMRS2 or automatically messaged, if 

the testing laboratory can message results 

(strongly preferred), and attached to the 

origin premises in EMRS2.

Permit Requirements

(See Appendix IV)

Source: Permitted Movement (go.usdatraining.com/movement)
SECURE TRANSPORT

11-5

Overview of the Eight Steps in Interstate Permitted Movement

Overview of the Eight Steps in Permitted Movement 

Permitting Process 44

Unified Incident Command or 

Producer submits permit request

Unified Incident Command or 

origin State reviews pending permit

and documentation 

Step 1

Unified Incident Command or 

origin State enters/checks data in EMRS2 and accept 

permit request, creating a pending permit

Step 2

Step 3

Origin State notifies the destination State of

reviewed permit

Step 4

Overview of the Eight Steps in Permitted Movement, contin

Permitting Process

Destination State 

reviews and denies 

permit and notifies 

the origin State of 

their decision 

The origin State or Unified 

Incident Command issues 

approved permit

Destination State 

reviews and 

approves permit

and notifies the 

origin State of their 

decision 

Movement occurs

Step 8

Step 7

Step 5

Step 6

Source: Permitted Movement (go.usdatraining.com/movement)
12-1

SECTION 12 Biosecurity

Quick Response (QR) codes require a Smartphone with an enabled app – recommend “RedLaser Barcode Scanner”. Access to SharePoint also requires the Cisco 

AnyConnect app on your Smartphone to establish a VPN connection.

Please note: These procedures may be revised as the situation develops. 

QUICK RESPONSE CARD 

Ensuring responder safety is the first priority at all times. 

Always know the hazards of the job, and how to protect yourself – read the SOP 

Buddy system – know where your buddy is during on-farm activities 

Care – take care of yourself – ppe, rest breaks, water, food, cool off

Defensive Driving – seat belts, no use of any communications devices while driving. Carry a vehicle 

accident kit and a first aid kit.

EAP – Employee Assistance Program – (800) 222-0364 (24 hrs/day, 7 days/week) 

Fatigue – get plenty of rest and sleep – don’t drive when you’re tired

Get the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and understand them 

Program phone numbers for your Incident Supervisor and the Safety Officer into your phone. 

Make sure Location Services is enabled on your phone. Know the location of the nearest hospital. 

See your Safety Officer or Incident Supervisor for more information on:

h p://sp.we.aphis.gov/vs/sites/SPRS/NPIC/SiteAssets/SitePages/HPAI/Responder%20Safety%20%20Health%20for%20ICS%20Deployment_20

%20May%202015%20Final.pdf (requires a VPN connection) 

Heat stress

Rest breaks – take them!

Accident/injury/illness reporting

Workers Compensation (OWCP)

Check-out/check-in procedures

Respirator use 

Weather

Chemical safety 

Medical clearance

Respirator training and fit testing

Personal protective equipment 

Daily briefing

Incident action plan

Emergency procedures 

Uncooperative individuals 

Standard operating procedures

Other Important Stuff o Tell your Incident Supervisor or Safety Officer immediately if you’re injured or feel sick.

o Report hazards immediately. 

o Don’t work more than 12 hours without specific supervisor instructions.

o Take breaks at least every 2 hours to cool off and drink fluids.

o If your urine is yellow, drink more water.

o Watch for weather, ticks, mosquitos, dogs, deer on the highways, hostile owners.

o Practice biosecurity: prevent contamination, clean, disinfect. 

o Watch your step – booties can be slippery.

o Campylobacteriosis and Salmonellosis are among the zoonotic diseases of concern when 

working with poultry. Wash hands with soap after contact with animal feces. All food and water 

are to be consumed on the clean side of the clean/dirty line.

o Don’t enter barns during/after CO2 operations until Incident Supervisor or safety officer declares 

it’s safe. Stay out of foam during foaming operations. 

o Shower and shampoo as soon as possible. Clean and disinfect the vehicle before leaving 

infected premises, and wash the vehicle after leaving the premises.

o Biosafety is very important, but don’t forget about other hazards:

HPAI Outbreak 2014-2015

Safety, Health & Environmental Protection

May 20, 2015 

HPAI Outbreak 2014-2015

Safety, Health & Environmental Protection

USDA HPAI website (go.usdatraining.com/HPAI)
BIOSECURITY

12-2

Quick Response (QR) codes require a Smartphone with an enabled app – recommend “RedLaser Barcode Scanner”. Access to SharePoint also requires the Cisco 

AnyConnect app on your Smartphone to establish a VPN connection.

o Electrical, machinery/vehicles, enclosed spaces/tanks/silos/pits, chemicals including 

disinfectants/detergents, high pressure sprayers, ammonia, walking and working 

surfaces.

o Wear visible ID while conducting surveillance. 

o Wash hands frequently. Don’t share food or drink. 

o Try to get a healthy diet. Minimize alcohol intake, especially in hot weather. Build up heat 

resistance over a period of several days.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 

Wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) for the job you are doing. Don’t remove your PPE until 

you’re back at the clean/dirty line. Full PPE is required for work done on infected premises: 

o Tyvek coveralls (Tychem coveralls for foam depopulation)

o Rubber boots or boot covers

o N95 respirators as a minimum

o Safety goggles or safety glasses with sideshields

o Gloves (double) (e.g., inner latex gloves; outer glove)

o Head bonnet and/or hardhat

o Hearing protection (disposable ear plugs) where noise is a hazard

What to do if your PPE is breached or compromised:

o If your PPE is breached (torn or obviously damaged), take your buddy with you and leave the 

work area, doff PPE, decontaminate yourself, and don new PPE. A minor tear might be “fixable” 

with duct tape after you’ve used alcohol gel on your skin. If your skin was cut or scraped, you 

should shower, then apply first aid. Let your Incident Supervisor know as soon as you can, but at 

least by the end of your shift. 

o If you think your PPE is compromised (possibly damaged or not working properly) at any time the 

work being done, stop work immediately. Contact your Incident Supervisor and/or the Safety 

Officer for guidance. If this requires leaving the work area, take your buddy with you.

More on the Buddy System

While in the Hot or Exclusion Zone, use the buddy system. Work in pairs and stay in close visual contact

and summon rapid assistance in case of an emergency. The responsibilities of workers using the buddy

system include:

o remaining in close visual contact with their partner,

o providing their partner with assistance as needed or requested,

o observing their partner for signs of heat stress or other difficulties,

o periodically checking the integrity of partner’s PPE, and

o notifying the site manager or other site personnel if emergency assistance is needed.

All responders must follow safety and health guidelines to protect themselves and everyone 

around them. You risk more than your own health and safety, as well as biosecurity, if you do not.

APHIS Emergency Mobilization Guide, APHIS 1050, March 3, 2014 

http://www.aphis.usda.gov/emergency_response/downloads/APHIS%20Emergency%20Mobilization%20Guide.pdf

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Standard Operating Procedures: 8. Health and Safety & Personal 

Protective Equipment, FADPReP, USDA APHIS, January 2014

http://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/emergency_management/downloads/sop/sop_hpai_health_safety.pdf

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Response Plan -- The Red Book, FADPReP, USDA APHIS, 

September 2012

http://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/emergency_management/downloads/hpai_response_plan.pdf
BIOSECURITY

12-3

Disposal personnel (equipment operators, drivers, 

contractors) must be briefed on safety 

requirements, appropropriate PPE, site conditions, 

and tasks by their supervisor and/or designated 

safety officer. The PPE outlined in this section is 

an example; actual PPE may vary based on tasks.

PPE OPTIONS

To reduce the risk of exposure to disease, it is important that you wear the proper PPE.

IMPORTANT PPE FUNCTIONS 

• Protects user from exposure to potentially

life-threatening infectious agents.

• Prevents spread of biological hazards by the user.

HEAD EYE HAND FOOT SKIN RESPIRATORY

Disposable 

TyvekTM suit

Powered Air Purifying 

Respirator (PAPR)

Air Purifying 

Respirator 

(APR) N95

Hair cover 

or hood

 impermeable 

apron

chemical-resistant 

tape

Latex or nitrile 

gloves

Washable rubber 

over-boots

Disposable plastic 

boot covers

Safety goggles

Thick rubber 

gloves

Hard hat

PPE PROTECTION LEVEL FROM LESS TO MORE 

TO

PROTECT

Personal Protective Equipment

All personnel are responsible for understanding how to use PPE appropriately to prevent the 

transmission of disease.

For donning PPE and other health and safety needs, see: 

• FAD site-specific health and safety plan

• NAHEMS Guidelines: Health and Safety: go.usdatraining.com/NAHEMS_Safety

• NAHEMS Guidelines: PPE: go.usdatraining.com/NAHEMS_PPE

• Standard Operating Procedures: Health and Safety & PPE: go.usdatraining.com/SOP_PPE

Developed by Texas A&M University (go.usdatraining.com/investigation)
BIOSECURITY

12-4

APPROPRIATE PPE 

CLEAN UP

• Dispose of PPE (except nondisposable items like PAPR

blower/filters)

• Disinfect boots

• Wash hands

• Shower

Disposable or suitable for 

disinfection coveralls + 

impermeable apron

Disposable head cover, 

hard hat, or hood

eye: non-vented eye goggles, 

indirectly vented eye goggles with 

anti-fog coating, or alternative 

respirator with full face piece

respiratory: N95 APR or PAPR 

(highly strenuous work/exposure)

Disposable latex or nitrile 

gloves or thick rubber gloves 

+ chemical-resistant tape

Rugged impermeable boots 

or shoe covers that can be 

disinfected or discarded

PPE Requirements

PPE PROCEDURE VIDEOS

The following videos depict proper procedures for the donning and doffing of PPE in both assisted and 

unassisted scenarios. To view the videos on a mobile device, scan the graphic code below with a QR 

code reader. The videos can also be accessed at www.usdatraining.com/ppe

Developed by Texas A&M University (go.usdatraining.com/investigation)
BIOSECURITY

12-5

 ITEM QUANTITY COMMENTS 

Large duffel bag 1 12 in. x 12 in. x 36 in. minimum, wheels optional. 

High visibility, waterproof, durable with luggage tag.

PPE

Tyvek coveralls 10 Hooded with elastic wrists and ankles. At least one 

per farm visit. Other coveralls made from nonwoven spunbond Olefin fiber, plain or vinyl coated 

like Tychem, can be substituted.

Duct tape 1 roll Keep in mind some brands of duct tape have poor 

adhesive qualities in cold weather.

Hard hat with ratchet 1

Head lamp flashlight with batteries 1

Respirator (N95 equivalent minimum) 10 Respirator model must correspond to fit test card.

Goggles

Face protection (shield) 1 Provides secondary protection of face/mucous 

membranes from exposure to pathogens.

Fog Fixer towlettes

Eyewear cleaning wipes

Nitrile gloves 20 2 pair per expected farm visit. Double gloves required.

Hearing protection As needed.

CLEANING AND DISINFECTION

Surgical scrub brush and nail cleaner 

with Chlorhexidine Gluconate and water

20

Disinfecting wipes Enough for 

10 farm visits

Ensure wipes are labeled for pathogen of concern 

and follow instructions for use on label.

Spray disinfectant Aerosol sprays greater than 100ml cannot be 

transported on domestic airlines. Can only transport 

powdered or pelleted disinfectants by air in original

packaging. Most common is Lysol or Techtrol 

brands. May be simpler to purchase after deployment 

arrival. See the USDA-APHIS Registered Antimicrobial 

Products with Label Claims for specific pathogen:

go.usdatraining.com/Disinfectants

Trash bags 1 box 13 gal. 

drawstring

1 box 30 gal. 

contractor

For collection of biosecure trash within the vehicle. 

Drawstring bags are easiest to use due to size. One 

to two large contractor bags for double bagging 

prior to disposal into biosecure trash on site.

Pens, pencils, sharpie pens 2 of each

Hand sanitizer

Go-Bag Checklist

Below is a list of personal protective equipment and other biosecurity items that individuals deploying to 

an animal disease outbreak response may want to have upon arrival at an incident. The quantities are 

sufficient for 1 to 2 days unsupported by a centralized supply point.

Developed by APHIS Composting Technical Team
BIOSECURITY

12-6

 ITEM QUANTITY COMMENTS 

DOCUMENTATION

Proof of Fit Test 1 each Hard and digital copy. Must be re-fit tested annually.

Proof of Physical Fitness 1 each Hard and digital copy of letter from Doctor. 

Must be renewed at interval specified in letter.

ID card lanyard 1 Needed to hold the issued USDA ID while working 

on site.

USDA SOPs and Job Aids As desired Hardcopy, laminated hardcopy and digital copies 

can be brought at the rate desired.

Flash drive with all required docs and 

reporting forms

1

OPTIONAL ITEMS

Carbiner or “S-biner” 1 Secures rental car keys to belt loop inside Tyvek 

overalls.

Light gloves (cotton or other light work 

type)

5 to 10 pair Can be substituted as outer glove in the double 

glove scheme.

Cooling vest if working in hot conditions

Bouffant (hair net) 5 to 10 as a 

minimum

Required head cover when using Tyvek coveralls 

without a hood. Bouffonts can be used as a lens or 

screen drying or cleaning tool.

Hand-pumped spray bottle 1 For use in mixing with water and spraying dry 

disinfectant if needed.

Shoe cover 10 to 20 Shoe covers may be worn between the removal of 

disinfectable inner boot at rear of vehicle and entry 

into driver’s seat as a way to minimize “contamination” 

of the inside of the car.

Hoof pick on a lanyard 1 Attached to belt loop inside Tyvek overalls. If using 

multiuse disinfectable inner boots, hoof pick can be 

used to clean out the lugs of the boot heel and sole 

at transfer from Hot Zone to Warm Zone.

Ziplock storage bags 10 to 20 To keep phone “clean” while in the Hot Zone

Small inverter 1 To provide AC power for computer use in vehicle 

on site.

Accordion file 1 For organizing paperwork

Yard spray bottle 1 For spraying GOV and other large items

Disinfecting wipes

Developed by APHIS Composting Technical Team
BIOSECURITY

12-7

Temporary Vehicle Wash Station 

Draft Standard Operating Procedure April 2015

 ITEM QUANTITY COST COMMENTS 

Large heavy-duty tarp 1 $120 20’x30’ heavy duty from Home Depot or similar.

Swimming pool noodles 10 $80 Case of 9. 4in diameter from Home Depot or similar.

Submersible sump pump 1 $190 With bottom intake and discharge hose. 1/2 HP 

submersible at Home Depot or similar

Basket strainer 1 (see photo 2)

Back-pack chemical sprayer 2 $270 ea. Example: go.usdatraining.com/sprayer or similar

10-pound pail Virkon S 1 $70

Pressure washer detergent 1 $15

Heavy-duty 32-gal plastic 

trash cans 

2 $30 ea. One for storing supplies and one for collecting 

wash water.

Wide 24-inch push broom with 

telescoping handle

1 $35

Long-handled scrub brushes 2 $5 ea.

Personal protective equipment Based on site safety plan and hazard analysis – 

see Safety Officer

Water supply

Discharge container Secure properly licensed contractor for removal 

or written permission from jurisdiction to 

discharge to sanitary or storm sewer

MATERIALS CHECKLIST (Approximate total = $850)

Temporary vehicle wash station set-up. Sump pump in bucket strainer.

 1 2

Developed by LPMiller, USDA, 2015
BIOSECURITY

12-8

PROCEDURE

1. Select a location with flat or gently sloping topography for the vehicle wash station which is between the 

infected zone and the exit.

2. Spread tarp on the ground. 

3. Place swimming pool noodles under tarp around entire perimeter. Roll edges of tarp around noodles to 

promote drainage (see photo 1).

4. Place sump pump in bucket strainer on tarp at low end where water is collecting (see photo 2). Connect pump 

electrical cord to power outlet. Direct discharge hose to collection container or approved sanitary sewer drain 

(not storm sewer).

5. If using 55-gallon drums or trash cans to collect wash water, place empty containers on/in haul vehicle before 

filling, then pump water to container on/in truck rather than filling the container on the ground then trying to 

lift full container later.

6. Fill sprayers with cleaning/disinfecting solution(s). NOTE: up to 40% propylene glycol antifreeze can be 

mixed with water before preparing solutions if temperatures are sub-freezing.

7. Drive vehicle onto tarp. 

8. Wash vehicle with cleaning solution, taking extra care on tires and wheel wells, scrubbing with scrub brushes 

as necessary. NOTE: tarp will be extremely slippery – use rubber overboots with good traction.

9. Use long-handled broom to push accumulating liquid towards sump pump as needed. 

10. Rinse vehicle with clean water.

11. Apply disinfectant if using separate disinfection step. Ensure full wetted contact time (foam formulations are 

easier in this regard).

12. Rinse vehicle with clean water.

13. Drive vehicle off tarp towards exit. Do not allow vehicle to drive back into infected area prior to exiting.

14. At end of operation, wash both sides of tarp, rinse with clean water, and allow tarp to dry before storing.

15. Dispose of collected wash water in accordance with jurisdiction WRITTEN instructions. Alternately, hire 

properly licensed local waste hauler to remove waste water.

Developed by LPMiller, USDA, 2015
BIOSECURITY

12-9

Identifying and designating work zones in the area 

of operations, and control areas on premises, may 

help prevent the transmission of the disease.

WORK ZONES

Work zones are small areas that only apply to specific premises and are identified as:

Exclusion Zone (EZ)/Red Zone/Hot Zone 

Contamination Reduction Zone (CRZ)/ Yellow Zone/Warm Zone

Support Zone (SZ)/Green Zone/Cold Zone

EXEMPLARY BIOSECURITY FUNCTIONS 

• Protects general public and people involved

• Prevents further disease spread

• Contains the infectious agent

Work Zones and Control Areas

All personnel entering the site must:

• Meet security requirements as established by the Incident Command

• Present documentation of verified credentials showing they are qualified to perform their 

assigned tasks,

• Present documentation that they have received all required briefings as defined in the sitespecific Incident Action Plan 

• Wear the required PPE specified in the site-specific Incident Action Plan 

See Standard Operating Procedures: Health and Safety & PPE: go.usdatraining.com/SOP_PPE

• Follow all Biosecurity procedures specified in the site-specific Incident Action Plan 

See NAHEMS Guidelines: Biosecurity: go.usdatraining.com/NAHEMS_Biosecurity and 

Standard Operating Procedures: Biosecurity: go.usdatraining.com/SOP_Biosecurity

Dani Ausen, Andrew Kingsbury, Iowa State University

Adapted from FADPrep Disposal Guidelines
BIOSECURITY

12-10

Best Practices for Managing Contamination Reduction Zone (CRZ) 

1. Set Up the CRZ

• Set up the CRZ to allow personnel to enter/exit the zone without risk of contamination. 

• Establish a decontamination corridor for personnel/PPE .

• Allocate a place for emergency decontamination.

• Create a slightly sloped impervious surface that facilitates disinfectant collection, such as a 

plastic ground cover at least 10 x 10 meters .

• Provide a water supply and collection system.

• Verify that run-off water is collected or flows back into the EZ.

2. Coordinate Movement through the CRZ

• Monitor and enforce entry and exit into the CRZ via one or two sites for authorized 

personnel working in the secured EZ.

• Create four enclosed areas to allow for doffing PPE.

• Secure all other possible entrances.

THE DECONTAMINATION CORRIDOR 

Adapted from FADPrep Disposal Guidelines

Dani Ausen, Andrew Kingsbury, Iowa State University
BIOSECURITY

12-11

BIOSECURITY IN THE DECONTAMINATION CORRIDOR 

CONTROL AREAS

Control areas, in comparison to the smaller work zones areas, are another means of preventing disease transmission by monitoring movement around the quarantine zone. The quarantine zone may be miles in diameter 

and may include many premises. For more information on control areas see the Ready Reference Guide—

Zones, Areas, and Premises in an FAD Outbreak

For more information see Feed Delivery Biosecurity for Control of Disease: go.usdatraining.com/Feed_delivery 

1 

PPE C & D Area

2 

PPE Removal Area

3 

Shower Area

4 

Dressing Area

Exclusion Zone (EZ)

Support Zone (SZ)

Area 1: PPE Cleaning & Disinfecting Area

• A washing station supplied with water and disinfectants 

• Scrub or spray-off exterior protective clothing 

• Thoroughly wash boots, coveralls, and gloved hands

Area 2: PPE Removal Area

• Always remove protective clothing first and discard or secure the clothing for disinfection

• Remove respirators and goggles

• Remove gloves last, by turning gloves inside out and using one gloved hand to remove the other glove

• Place clothing and equipment in prepared bins for disposal or cleaning

• Properly discard disposable items as infectious waste in accordance with all applicable regulations

• Clean/disinfect non-disposable items

Area 3: Shower Area

• Enter showering facilities if available

• Wash hair and all body surfaces

• If no showering facilities are available, proceed to dressing area

Area 4: Dressing Area

• Wash hands and face

• Change into clean clothing

Adapted from FADPrep Disposal Guidelines
BIOSECURITY

12-12

Ready Reference Guide—Overview of Zones

1

HPAI Outbreak 2014-2015 

Ready Reference Guide—Overview of Zones 

August 2015 USDA APHIS Veterinary Services • National Preparedness and Incident Coordination (NPIC)

4700 River Road Unit 41 • Riverdale, MD 20737 

Zone/Area Definition

Infected Zone (IZ) Zone that immediately surrounds an Infected Premises.

Buffer Zone (BZ) Zone that immediately surrounds an Infected Zone or a Contact Premises.

Control Area (CA) Consists of an Infected Zone and a Buffer Zone.

Surveillance Zone (SZ) Zone outside and along the border of a Control Area. The Surveillance Zone is 

part of the Free Area.

Free Area (FA) Area not included in any Control Area. Includes the Surveillance Zone.

In the Surveillance Zone 

(which is part of the Free 

Area), targeted poultry 

surveillance may be 

conducted (i.e. commercial 

premises).

In the Buffer Zone (which 

is part of the Control 

Area), there are movement 

controls and surveillance 

activities.

In the Infected Zone 

(which is part of the 

Control Area), there are 

movement controls and 

surveillance activities. 

Infected Premises are 

quarantined.

In the Free Area (which 

includes the Surveillance 

Zone), routine or program 

surveillance may occur (i.e. 

NPIP and wild birds).

Infected Zone Buffer Zone Surveillance Zone

+ = Control Area + = Free Area

Ready Reference Guide—Zones, Areas, and Premises in an FAD Outbreak (go.usdatraining.com/zones)
BIOSECURITY

12-13

Zone/Area

Infected Zone (IZ) Zone that immediately surrounds an Infected Premises.

Buffer Zone (BZ) Zone that immediately surrounds an Infected Zone or a Contact Premises.

Control Area (CA) Consists of an Infected Zone and a Buffer Zone.

Surveillance Zone

(SZ)

Zone outside and along the border of a Control Area. The Surveillance Zone is

part of the Free Area.

Free Area (FA) Area notincluded in any Control Area. Includes the Surveillance Zone.

Example Zones, Areas, and Premises

Premises Zone

Infected

Premises

(IP)

Infected Zone

Contact

Premises

(CP)

exposed to the FAD, either directly or indirectly,

including but not limited to exposure to animals, animal

products, fomites, or people from Infected Premises.

Infected Zone,

Buffer Zone

Suspect

Premises

(SP) -

Infected Zone,

Buffer Zone,

Surveillance 

Zone,

Zone

At-Risk

Premises

(ARP)

is not an Infected Premises, Contact Premises, or

Suspect Premises. At-Risk Premises may seek to move 

by permit. Only AtR-isk Premises are eligible to become 

Monitored Premises.

Infected Zone,

Buffer Zone

Monitored

Premises

(MP)

Infected Premises, Contact Premises, or Suspect

Premises. Only AtR-isk Premises are eligible to become 

Monitored Premises. Monitored Premises meet a set of

or products out of the Control Area by permit.

Infected Zone,

Buffer Zone

Free

Premises

(FP)

Premises outside of a Control Area and not a Contact or

Suspect Premises.

Surveillance 

Zone, Free Area

Vaccinated

Premises

(VP)

performed. This may be a secondary premises

Containment

Zone

Premises

Zones and Areas

In an HPAI outbreak, the Incident Commander will

work with the Operations Section and Planning 

Section to determine the appropriate designations. 

Note: Figures are not to scale. 

Infected Zone

Buffer Zone

Surveillance Zone

+ = Control Area

+ = Free Area

Infected, Contact, and Suspect Premises are subject to individual premises quarantines.

At-Risk and Monitored Premises are subject to movement control restrictions.

Ready Reference Guide—Zones, Areas, and Premises in an FAD Outbreak (go.usdatraining.com/zones)
BIOSECURITY

12-14

For more information, please go to: www.aphis.usda.gov/fadprep.

For more details on zones and premises designations, please see the APHIS FAD Framework: Response Strategies 

(Manual 2-0): go.usdatraining.com/FADPReP_Manual_2

For the HPAI Response Plan: The Red Book see: go.usdatraining.com/HPAI_red_book

For the Secure Egg Supply Plan see www.secureeggsupply.com

Factors Used to Determine Control Area Size

Factors

•

• -

Physical boundaries • Areas defined by geography

• Areas defined by distance between premises

FAD epidemiology •

•

• Ease of transmission

•

•

• Modes of transmission (such as, fecal-oral, droplet, aerosol, vectors)

• Survivability in the environment

• Ease of diagnosis (for example, no pathognomonic signs; requires

• Age of lesions

Infected Premises • Number of contacts

• Transmission pathways and transmission risk

Extent of animal movement

Number of animals

Species of animals

Age of animals

Movement of traffic and personnel to and from premises (fomite 

spread)

Contact Premises • Number and types of premises

•

• Animal movements

• Movement of traffic (fomites) and personnel to and from premises

(fomite spread)

• Biosecurity measure in place prior to outbreak

Environment • Types of premises in area or region

• Land use in area or region

•

• Wildlife as biological or mechanical vectors

Climate (for aerosol

spread diseases)

• Prevailing winds

• Humidity

General area, region,

or agriculturalsector

biosecurity

•

•

Number of backyard

premises

• Types of premises, animal movements, and network of animal and fomite movements

•

-assessments)

•

at beginning of outbreak

–

–

– –

–

Zone or Area Minimum Size and Details

Infected Zone 

(IZ)

Perimeter should be at least 3 km (~1.86 miles) beyond perimeters of Premises. Will

depend on disease agent and epidemiological circumstances. This zone may be 

Buffer Zone (BZ) Perimeter should be at least 7 km (~4.35 miles) beyond the perimeter of the Infected Zone. Width is generally notless

than the minimum radius of the associated Infected Zone, but may be much larger. This zone may be 

Control Area

(CA)

Perimeter should be at least 10 km (~6.21 miles) beyond the perimeter of the closestInfected Premises. Please see the

table above for factors that influence the size of the Control Area. This area may be redefined as the outbreak continues.

Surveillance 

Zone (SZ)

Width should be at least 10 km (~6.21 miles), but may be much larger.

Minimum Sizes of Zones and Areas

Ready Reference Guide—Zones, Areas, and Premises in an FAD Outbreak (go.usdatraining.com/zones)
13-1

How Long Does the Process Take?

Questions?

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

A Guide To Help You Understand the Response Process

1 2 3 4 5 Quarantine

USDA and State personnel

come to your farm. We

assign you a case manager,

who will be your main point

of contact onsite, answer

your questions, and guide

you through the needed

paperwork. We will also

place your operation under

quarantine, meaning only

authorized workers are

allowed in and out, and

movement restrictions for

poultry, poultry products,

and equipment go into

effect. We contact

neighboring poultry farms

and start testing their birds

to see if they’ve been

affected, too.

Detect

You see unusual

signs of illness or

sudden deaths in

your flock. You

can report it to your

private veterinarian

or a State or

veterinarian.

Samples are taken

and tested. You

find out your flock

is positive for HPAI.

Appraise

We work with you to

create a flock

inventory. This lists

how many birds you

have, what species

they are, their age,

and other key

details

compensate for

birds that must be

destroyed using

calculators.

Compensate

Affected producers and

growers must certify that

a biosecurity plan was

in place prior to an HPAI

detection. Split

payments can be

provided between the

owner and contract

grower. You receive

your first indemnity

payment early on in the

response process. We

also pay you a standard

amount for virus

elimination activities

(cleanup work).

Depopulate

Infected flocks are

depopulated as quickly

as possible—ideally

within 24 hours of the

first HPAI detection—

to get rid of the virus.

6 7 8910 Manage

Disposal

USDAwill help you

dispose of the dead birds

safely. Disposal methods

include composting,

burial, incineration,

rendering, or landfilling.

The options you’ll have

depend on several things:

what type of farm you

have, the specific

conditions there, State

and local laws, and what

you prefer.

Eliminate

Virus

The next step is to

wipe out all traces of

the virus at your

property. To kill the

virus, thoroughly

clean and disinfect

the barn, equipment,

and all affected areas

of your farm. You can

do this work yourself

or hire contractors to

handle it.

Test

As soon as you’re

ready, let your

case manager know

you’re finished with

cleanup. Your site

must then stay empty

for at least 21 days.

During this time, we'll

return to collect and

test environmental

samples. We need to

confirm that your

property is completely

virus-free.

Restock

Once USDA and the

State both approve,

you can restock your

facilities and start

production again.

State officials will

release your farm

from quarantine after

all required testing

and waiting periods

are done.

Maintain

Biosecurity

After restocking, you’ll

need to continue

maintaining the highest

biosecurity standards

to keep the virus from

coming back. For

biosecurity tips, go to

www.aphis.usda.gov/-

publications and

download the factsheet

“Prevent Avian

Influenza at Your

Farm.”

Ideally, this entire process could be completed in as soon as 60–120 days. However, the timeframe varies 

depending on many things (for example, flock size, depopulation and disposal methods used, test results, 

farm’s location). We’re committed to restoring production as fast as we can while also protecting poultry health. 

For general information and contacts, visit:

www.usda.gov/avian_influenza.html

www.aphis.usda.gov/fadprep

www.aphis.usda.gov/animalhealth/

defendtheflock

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service • APHIS 91-85-005 • Issued March 2017

Talk with your case manager or the State or Federal officials responding to the disease event in your area. 

SECTION 13 References

Source: go.usdatraining.com/HPAI_guide
REFERENCES

13-2

ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is a very contagious and deadly disease 

for poultry. All it takes is one infected bird, and the disease can spread from 

flock to flock within a matter of days. As with any highly contagious animal 

disease, a quick and early response is our best chance to limit the size and 

scope of the outbreak. Depopulating affected animals is a key part of the 

response: it’s one of the most effective ways to stop disease spread and protect 

U.S. animal health as a whole. 

Federal law gives the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) authority to 

depopulate animals in these situations to stop disease spread. USDA’s goal is to 

complete this work within 24 hours of first detecting HPAI at a property. The 

sooner we act, the faster we can contain the outbreak and help business return 

to normal. 

Your case manager will walk you through the process as we prepare to 

depopulate your flock and find out—as best we can—how HPAI may have 

entered your facility and if it has spread to any neighboring farms. We will also 

handle the disposal process, working with you to make sure it’s done safely, in 

compliance with all applicable laws, and without spreading HPAI further.

Depopulation Methods

There are two main methods we use to depopulate HPAI-affected flocks: 

water-based foam for floor-raised birds and carbon dioxide gas for caged birds. 

These are the most humane and effective options available in an emergency 

situation involving mass numbers of birds. Trained personnel will arrive 

onsite and handle these tasks under the supervision of Federal and State 

animal health officials.

If our preferred methods don’t allow us to depopulate the flock as quickly as 

needed—within 24 hours—we must consider other options. These may include 

shutting off the facility’s ventilation fans (“ventilation shutdown”). Federal and 

State officials will carefully evaluate your farm and work with you to figure out 

the best option for meeting the goal of 24-hour depopulation. 

In every case, we take the decision very seriously and weigh many factors when 

choosing what depopulation method to use. These include, among other things, 

the size and type of the animals, their behavior, and their containment/housing 

facilities. We also look at the number of animals in the flock, the location of the 

farm and environmental conditions there, disease information, and available 

resources and personnel. 

Depopulation and Disposal

for Birds in Your HPAI-Infected Flock

There is a difference between 

“depopulation” and “euthanasia.”

Depopulation is when large 

numbers of animals must be 

destroyed in response to an animal 

health emergency. With depopulation, 

the welfare of the animals is given 

as much consideration as practical, 

but the situation is understood 

to be extenuating.

Euthanasia, however, involves 

transitioning an animal to death as 

painlessly and stress-free as possible. 

While euthanasia is preferable to 

depopulation, it is not always possible 

during an animal health emergency 

because of the need to move quickly 

to slow or stop disease spread.

During an HPAI outbreak, depopulating 

flocks within 24 hours is crucial. It’s the 

best way to eliminate the disease and, 

overall, is a more humane approach. 

A lengthier depopulation process can 

lead to a greater number of birds 

suffering the terrible effects of HPAI.

WHAT IS DEPOPULATION?

ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is a very contagious and deadly disease 

for poultry. All it takes is one infected bird, and the disease can spread from 

flock to flock within a matter of days. As with any highly contagious animal 

disease, a quick and early response is our best chance to limit the size and 

scope of the outbreak. Depopulating affected animals is a key part of the 

response: it’s one of the most effective ways to stop disease spread and protect 

U.S. animal health as a whole. 

Federal law gives the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) authority to 

depopulate animals in these situations to stop disease spread. USDA’s goal is to 

complete this work within 24 hours of first detecting HPAI at a property. The 

sooner we act, the faster we can contain the outbreak and help business return 

to normal. 

Your case manager will walk you through the process as we prepare to 

depopulate your flock and find out—as best we can—how HPAI may have 

entered your facility and if it has spread to any neighboring farms. We will also 

handle the disposal process, working with you to make sure it’s done safely, in 

compliance with all applicable laws, and without spreading HPAI further.

Depopulation Methods

There are two main methods we use to depopulate HPAI-affected flocks: 

water-based foam for floor-raised birds and carbon dioxide gas for caged birds. 

These are the most humane and effective options available in an emergency 

situation involving mass numbers of birds. Trained personnel will arrive 

onsite and handle these tasks under the supervision of Federal and State 

animal health officials.

If our preferred methods don’t allow us to depopulate the flock as quickly as 

needed—within 24 hours—we must consider other options. These may include 

shutting off the facility’s ventilation fans (“ventilation shutdown”). Federal and 

State officials will carefully evaluate your farm and work with you to figure out 

the best option for meeting the goal of 24-hour depopulation. 

In every case, we take the decision very seriously and weigh many factors when 

choosing what depopulation method to use. These include, among other things, 

the size and type of the animals, their behavior, and their containment/housing 

facilities. We also look at the number of animals in the flock, the location of the 

farm and environmental conditions there, disease information, and available 

resources and personnel. 

Depopulation and Disposal

for Birds in Your HPAI-Infected Flock

There is a difference between 

“depopulation” and “euthanasia.”

Depopulation is when large 

numbers of animals must be 

destroyed in response to an animal 

health emergency. With depopulation, 

the welfare of the animals is given 

as much consideration as practical, 

but the situation is understood 

to be extenuating.

Euthanasia, however, involves 

transitioning an animal to death as 

painlessly and stress-free as possible. 

While euthanasia is preferable to 

depopulation, it is not always possible 

during an animal health emergency 

because of the need to move quickly 

to slow or stop disease spread.

During an HPAI outbreak, depopulating 

flocks within 24 hours is crucial. It’s the 

best way to eliminate the disease and, 

overall, is a more humane approach. 

A lengthier depopulation process can 

lead to a greater number of birds 

suffering the terrible effects of HPAI.

WHAT IS DEPOPULATION?

Source: go.usdatraining.com/HPAI_depop
REFERENCES

13-3

ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE

USDA follows the recommendations of the American Veterinary Medical 

Association and the World Organization for Animal Health whenever possible. 

We use trained veterinarians, animal health technicians, and specialized 

contractors to complete depopulation work. Throughout the process, our 

focus is on keeping personnel safe while minimizing stress to the animals. 

Disposal Options

There are many safe methods for carcass disposal. These include composting, 

onsite burial, incineration, rendering, and landfilling. Each disposal option can 

take a different amount of time to complete. When deciding which method to 

use, we look at several factors, including the size of the flock, space 

requirements, associated costs, local conditions, and applicable laws. 

We also consider the benefits and limits to using each method:

• Composting. Contains the virus to the farm and produces a soil 

amendment/fertilizer product. However, composting requires ample flat 

space and may not be possible for all farming operations, such as egg layer 

facilities or other places where space is limited.

• Burial. Must be approved by the State environmental regulatory agency and 

may not be permitted if the water table is close to the ground surface.

• Incineration. A safe method for disposing of carcasses, but the fuel 

requirements are substantial and can be costly.

• Rendering. This involves processing carcasses until they are reduced to 

water, fat or tallow, and meat or bone meal. It is very effective but requires 

added safety precautions to make sure the virus does not become 

aerosolized and dispersed throughout the rendering plant. It is also 

disruptive for the plant’s normal operations.

• Landfilling. Landfilling allows safe and efficient disposal of large quantities 

of carcasses. However, individual landfill managers may put restrictions on 

the type or quantity of materials they accept.

Depending on the situation, we may end up taking a combined approach and 

use a few or all of these methods.

For More Information

If you have specific questions, talk with your case manager or call the nearest 

USDA office (www.aphis.usda.gov/animal-health/state-offices). 

For general information on HPAI and emergency response, go to 

www.usda.gov/avian_influenza.html and www.aphis.usda.gov/fadprep.

Here, you can also download USDA’s “Ventilation Shutdown Evidence & 

Policy,” which gives more technical details about this topic.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

APHIS 91-85-010

Issued January 2016

ACTIONS YOU NEED TO TAKE

• Talk with your case manager about 

how you’ll be involved and if you’ll 

work directly with emergency 

responders on these activities.

• Wear personal protective 

equipment if you are on the farm at 

the time depopulation or disposal 

work is happening or if you are 

directly involved in this work. 

• Require that your employees also 

wear personal protective 

equipment if they are on the farm 

or helping with response activities. 

Your case manager can provide 

guidance on personal protective 

equipment if needed.

• Adhere to strict biosecurity 

procedures at your farm.

• Follow all other steps outlined by 

the response team to minimize risk 

of spreading the disease during 

the process. 

USDA’s goal is to complete 

depopulation work within 24 

hours of first detecting HPAI at a 

property. The sooner we act, the 

faster we can contain the 

outbreak and help business 

return to normal.

Source: go.usdatraining.com/HPAI_depop
REFERENCES

13-4

RECOVERY DIVISION

FACT SHEET 9580.202

DEBRIS REMOVAL 

AUTHORITIES OF FEDERAL AGENCIES 

Prepared By: Public Assistance Bran ch Page 1 of 7

Overview

This fact sheet identifies and describes the authorities of federal departments and agencies in support of 

debris operations following a presidential emergency or major disaster declaration. The following nine 

Federal agencies and departments are invested with authorities (described in detail below) addressing 

various aspects of debris management.

• Department of Homeland Security

o Federal Emergency Management Agency 

o United States Coast Guard

• Department of Defense: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

• Department of Agriculture 

o Natural Resources and Conservation Service 

o Farm Service Agency 

o Animal Plant and Health Inspection Service 

• Department of Transportation: Federal Highway Administration

• Department of Commerce: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

• Environmental Protection Agency

Department of Homeland Security

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

• FEMA is authorized in Sections 403, 407 and 502 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and

Emergency Assistance Act to provide assistance to eligible applicants to remove debris from public 

and private property following a Presidential disaster declaration, when in the public interest.

• Removal must be necessary to eliminate immediate threats to lives, public health and safety;

eliminate immediate threats of significant damage to improved public or private property; or ensure 
REFERENCES

13-5

RECOVERY DIVISION FACT SHEET - RP9580.202

DEBRIS REMOVAL

AUTHORITIES OF FEDERAL AGENCIES 

Prepared By: Public Assistance Bran ch Page 2 of 7

the economic recovery of the affected community to the benefit of the community-at-large. The

debris must be the direct result of the disaster and located in the disaster area, and the applicant

must have the legal responsibility to remove the debris. 

• FEMA will (1) reimburse applicants to remove eligible debris, or (2) through a mission assignment to

another Federal agency (and upon request of the State) - provide direct Federal assistance when it has

been demonstrated that the State and local government lack the capability to perform or contract for 

the requested work.

• Assistance will be cost-shared (at no less than 75% Federal and 25% non-Federal). In extreme 

circumstances, FEMA will provide up to 100% funding for a limited period of time.

United States Coast Guard (USCG)

• Under the National Contingency Plan (NCP), the USCG and Environmental Protection Agency 

(EPA) are responsible for providing pre-designated Federal On-Scene Coordinators (FOSCs) to 

conduct emergency removals of oil and hazardous materials. 

• USCG is responsible for the coastal zone, and the EPA is responsible for the inland zone. The

delineation between coastal and inland zones is by mutual agreement between the USCG and the

EPA, and the geographic limits are indicated in Area Contingency Plans.

• Under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, or CERCLA 

(also known as Superfund), and the Clean Water Act, USCG has the authority to respond to actual or 

potential discharges of oil and actual or potential releases of hazardous substances, pollutants and

contaminants that may endanger public health or the environment.

• Response actions may include containment, stabilization, decontamination, collection (e.g., orphan

drums tanks and drums), and final disposal. Debris may be mixed with, or contain, oil or hazardous 

materials that are subject to USCG response authorities. Oil removal is funded from the Oil Spill 

Liability Trust Fund, while hazardous materials removal is conducted using CERCLA funds. 

• USCG, under the Ports and Waterways Safety Act (33 U.S.C. §§1221), is responsible for keeping 

waterways safe and open. While there is no specific language stating that the USCG is responsible

for debris removal from waterways, the USCG has been tasked - in the past - to assist in waterway

and marine transportation system recovery.
REFERENCES

13-6

RECOVERY DIVISION FACT SHEET - RP9580.202

DEBRIS REMOVAL

AUTHORITIES OF FEDERAL AGENCIES 

Prepared By: Public Assistance Bran ch Page 3 of 7

Department of Defense 

United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)

• USACE is authorized by Section 202 of Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 1976 (PL 94-

587) to develop projects for the collection and removal of drift and debris from publicly maintained 

commercial harbors, and from land and water areas immediately adjacent thereto.

• Specific and limited local programs for continuing debris collection and disposal have been 

authorized (on an individual basis, with the authorized work carried out at each locality as a

separate, distinct project) by Congress for: 

o New York Harbor

o Baltimore Harbor 

o Norfolk Harbor 

o Potomac and Anacostia Rivers, in the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan area

o San Francisco Harbor/Bay, California. 

• Sections 15, 19, and 20 of the River and Harbor Act of 1899, as amended, authorize USACE to remove

sunken vessels or other obstructions from navigable waterways under emergency conditions. A 

navigable waterway is one that has been authorized by Congress, and which USACE operates and

maintains for general (including commercial and recreational) navigation. Funding for operation 

and maintenance of these “Federal” waterways is through USACE’s annual Operations and 

Maintenance General Appropriation. USACE’s policy is to oversee removal of sunken vessels by an

identifiable owner, operator or lessee if the sunken vessel is in or likely to be moved into a Federal 

navigation channel. USACE will remove a vessel using its emergency authorities only if the owner, 

operator, or lessee cannot be identified or they cannot effect removal in a timely and safe manner.

• USACE is also authorized, under Flood Control and Coastal Emergencies (PL 84-99), to provide

assistance for debris removal from flood control works, i.e., structures designed and constructed to 

have appreciable and dependable effects in preventing damage by irregular and unusual rises in 

water level. Under this authority, USACE requires that an applicant, to be eligible for assistance, be

an active participant in its PL 84-99 Rehabilitation and Inspection Program at the time of the disaster.
REFERENCES

13-7

RECOVERY DIVISION FACT SHEET - RP9580.202

DEBRIS REMOVAL

AUTHORITIES OF FEDERAL AGENCIES 

Prepared By: Public Assistance Bran ch Page 4 of 7

United States Department of Agriculture 

Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)

• NRCS’ Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP) is authorized by Section 216 of the Flood 

Control Act of 1950, PL 81–516, 33 U.S.C. 701b–1; and Section 403 of the Agricultural Credit Act of

1978, PL 95–334, as amended by Section 382, of the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform

Act of 1996, PL 104–127, 16 U.S.C. 2203.

• Debris clean up must be for either runoff retardation or soil erosion prevention that is causing a 

sudden impairment in the watershed creating an imminent threat to life or property. Typically, this 

includes debris within channels but could also include debris in close proximity to a channel or 

situated where the next event could create an imminent threat to life or property. There is no size

limit to the watershed except that EWP assistance is not eligible for coastal erosion restoration. 

• The EWP is funded through specific Congressional appropriations. 

• Public and private landowners are eligible for assistance but must be represented by a project

sponsor (a state or political subdivision thereof, qualified Indian tribe or tribal organization, or unit 

of local government). 

• Work can be done either through Federal or local contracts. Sponsors are responsible for the 75% 

local cost share. 

• NRCS can provide assistance when the President declares an area to be a major disaster area or when

an NRCS State Conservationist determines that a watershed impairment exists.

• NRCS will not provide funding for activities undertaken by a sponsor prior to the signing of an 

agreement between NRCS and the sponsor.

Farm Service Agency (FSA)

• Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) is authorized by Sections 401 - 406 of the Agricultural

Credit Act of 1978, PL 95–334, and provides emergency assistance for debris removal from privatelyowned land following a natural disaster. It is funded through Congressional supplemental 

appropriations.
REFERENCES

13-8

RECOVERY DIVISION FACT SHEET - RP9580.202

DEBRIS REMOVAL

AUTHORITIES OF FEDERAL AGENCIES 

Prepared By: Public Assistance Bran ch Page 5 of 7

• The damage must be so costly that Federal assistance is or will be required to return the land to 

productive agricultural use or to provide emergency water for livestock. 

• The ECP provides emergency cost share funding (up to 75% federal share) and technical assistance

for farmers and ranchers to remove debris (other than animal carcasses).

Animal, Plant and Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

• APHIS has two programs under which it can provide debris removal assistance:

o Veterinary Services (VS) program authorized by Animal Health Protection Act (7 U.S.C. 8301–

8317) which provides for removal and burial of diseased animal carcasses.

o Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) program authorized by Plant Protection Act (Title IV, 

Pub. L. 106–224, 114 Stat. 438, 7 U.S.C. 7701–7772). This program manages issues related to the

health of plant resources. Primary objective is to regulate and monitor in order to reduce the risk 

of introduction and spread of invasive species, including planning, surveillance, quick detection, 

containment, and eradication.

• Both public and private lands are eligible under these programs which provide assistance to Federal,

State, tribes, local jurisdictions, and private landowners to manage animal and plant health by

collecting and providing information, conducting or supporting treatments, providing technical 

assistance for planning and program implementation (removal).

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 

• EPA’s primary authorities related to debris removal fall into two categories: (1) authorities related to 

cleaning up debris that is mixed with or contains oil or hazardous materials; and (2) authorities 

related to establishing standards for proper management of debris (hazardous and non-hazardous). 

EPA generally does not remove non-hazardous debris after emergencies/disasters.

• Under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, or CERCLA 

(also known as Superfund), and the Clean Water Act, EPA and the United States Coast Guard

(USCG) have the authority to respond to actual or potential discharges of oil and actual or potential 

discharges of hazardous substances, and to actual or potential discharges of pollutants and

contaminants that may present an imminent and substantial danger to the public health or welfare.
REFERENCES

13-9

RECOVERY DIVISION FACT SHEET - RP9580.202

DEBRIS REMOVAL

AUTHORITIES OF FEDERAL AGENCIES 

Prepared By: Public Assistance Bran ch Page 6 of 7

• EPA has responsibility for responses in the inland zone and USCG has responsibility for responses in 

the coastal zone. The delineation between the inland and coastal zone is determined by mutual

agreement by the EPA and USCG, and the geographic boundaries are indicated in Area Contingency

Plans.

• EPA and USCG carry out these responsibilities under implementing regulations known as the

National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan (NCP). EPA and USCG predesignate Federal On-Scene Coordinators (FOSCs) to direct and coordinate response actions.

• Response actions may include containment, stabilization, decontamination, collection (e.g., orphan

tanks and drums), and disposal. Debris may be mixed with, or contain, oil or hazardous materials 

that are subject to these response authorities.

• CERCLA requires that the State in which the site is located fund 10% of remedial action costs, with

the other 90% drawn from the Superfund. However, where the potentially responsible party is a

political subdivision of a State, the State must agree to fund 50% of the remedial action costs, with the

other 50% drawn from the Superfund. 

• The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act established a framework for Federal, State, and local 

cooperation in controlling the management of hazardous and non-hazardous solid waste. The EPA 

role is to establish minimum regulatory standards that are, in most cases, implemented by the States 

and to provide technical assistance. EPA administers other laws as well that may impact the

management of debris (e.g., Clean Air Act requirements that apply to asbestos-containing debris). 

Again, some of these programs may be delegated to the States.

• FEMA may mission assign the EPA through the United States Army Corps of Engineers to dispose of

household hazardous waste following a major disaster declaration from the President.

Department of Transportation 

Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)

• The Emergency Relief (or ER) program is authorized in Title 23, United States Code, Section 125,

from the Highway Trust Fund, and supports repair or reconstruction of Federal-aid highways and 

roads on Federal lands which have suffered serious damage as a result of natural disasters or

catastrophic failures from an external cause. 

• Debris removal from Federal-aid roads is eligible for 100% reimbursement during the first 180 days

following an emergency event that qualifies and is approved for the ER program. 
REFERENCES

13-10
REFERENCES

13-11

United States 

Department of 

Agriculture National 

Veterinary 

Stockpile:

Ready for Animal Disease 

Emergencies

As part of its safeguarding mission, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) 

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) coordinates 

the National Veterinary Stockpile (NVS) program.

The NVS is our Nation’s repository of veterinary “countermeasures”—animal vaccines, antivirals, 

supplies, equipment, and response support services. Simply put, it exists to provide States, tribes, and 

territories with the tools they need to combat an animal disease outbreak. In an animal health emergency, 

the response must be fast and well coordinated to keep disease from spreading. The NVS can 

dispatch—within 24 hours—critical resources animal health officials need onsite.

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

Program Aid No. 2139
REFERENCES

13-12

With NVS support, officials can set up 

immediate measures to contain and eradicate the disease, 

minimizing the animal losses and other economic damages 

that result from an outbreak. In addition to providing 

resources and materials when outbreaks occur, NVS 

personnel help States, tribes, and territories prepare for future 

outbreaks through careful advance planning, training, and 

exercises. Our goal is to make sure that, when faced with an 

emergency, our partners understand the process for rapidly 

requesting, receiving, processing, and distributing NVS 

resources so responders get help quickly.

What We Oer

Equipment and Supplies

The NVS oers many resources to address animal health 

threats during disease outbreaks. These resources 

(i.e., veterinary countermeasures) include:

1) personal protective equipment for on-the-ground 

responders to guard against infection and other 

onsite hazards;

2) decontamination supplies to inactivate pathogens;

3) vaccines to quickly protect livestock and poultry at 

risk of infection;

4) vaccination equipment and supplies (such as needles 

and syringes) to eectively immunize large numbers of 

livestock and poultry;

5) animal handling equipment , including corrals, to safely 

contain and restrain livestock; 

6) equipment for emergency euthanasia and 

depopulation of animals;

7) assistance in securing outside companies , if 

needed, to provide trained personnel and additional 

equipment for large-scale depopulation, disposal, and 

decontamination work.

Training and Exercises

We help States, tribes, and territories plan for potential 

disease outbreaks to support a smooth response should 

they need NVS resources. For example, we oer a planning 

guide, a plan template, and other tools that explain in detail 

what logistical factors to consider when preparing for an 

agricultural emergency. Our sta can also share their firsthand experiences and expertise in handling various disease 

situations, which further aids the planning process.

Once a plan is in place, our sta conduct logistical training 

and exercises with NVS partners per the Homeland 

Security Exercise Evaluation Program. These exercises give 

participants an opportunity to:

• learn in detail about the NVS program and 

available resources;

• test their abilities to request, receive, process, and 

distribute NVS equipment, supplies, and vaccines;

• clarify roles and responsibilities to aid in a logistics 

operation; and

• identify resource gaps and improve response plans 

before outbreaks occur.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Issued June 2013

Contact Us

To learn more, visit our Web site at 

http://nvs.aphis.usda.gov or email us at nvs@aphis.usda.gov .

You can also reach our sta by phone at 

(301) 851-3595 or fax at (301) 734-7817 . 

In an emergency, please call our 24/7 hotline: 

1-800-940-6524 .
REFERENCES

13-13

APHIS Factsheet

Veterinary Services March 2013

Questions and Answers: 

The National Veterinary 

Stockpile and the 24 Hour

Push Pack

The National Veterinary Stockpile (NVS) program, 

coordinated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 

(USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service 

(APHIS), provides support to States, Tribes, and 

Territories responding to damaging animal disease 

outbreaks. Within 24 hours, the NVS can provide 

veterinary countermeasures—including certain types 

of animal vaccines, antivirals, supplies, equipment, and 

response services—to animal health officials in affected 

areas. To learn more about this program, see the NVS 

factsheet on APHIS’ Web site at www.aphis.usda.gov/

publications/animal_health/content/printable_version/

veterinary_stockpile.pdf.

One of the services NVS provides is shipping the 

“24 Hour Push Pack” when needed to combat a 

damaging animal disease outbreak.

Q. What is a “24 Hour Push Pack?”

A. A 24 Hour Push Pack is the initial shipment of 

supplies. The shipment will arrive within 24 hours 

of APHIS’ approval to deploy resources. The requestor 

only needs to provide basic information about the 

situation, and we will coordinate the transport 

of supplies needed to respond to a damaging 

animal disease.

There are four details we need to determine which 

push pack is most appropriate for the situation:

1) Type of disease—this helps determine whether a 

standard or high-protection push pack is needed. 

High-protection push packs include high-level 

respiratory protection, such as Powered Air 

Purifying Respirators (PAPR).

2) Number of responders expected—this 

determines the number of push packs needed. 

Each push pack supports 10 responders for 10 

days, changing 6 times per day. When making your 

request, round the number of responders up to the 

nearest multiple of 10.

3) Incident command point-of-contact to coordinate 

the NVS deployment 

4) The physical address of the facility that will 

receive NVS supplies

Once we receive this information, the NVS Deployment 

Management Team will determine what to provide 

immediately.

Q. What does a push pack contain?

A. Depending on the level of protection needed, there 

are two types of push packs.

A standard protection push pack contains four modules:

• 2 Tyvek personal protective equipment (PPE) 

modules, which include 450 PPE kits, a fi rst aid kit, 

bulk nitrile gloves, and boot covers;

• 1 Tychem module, which includes 150 PPE kits; and

• 1 decontamination module, which contains 

disposable aprons, isolation bags, Ziploc® bags, 

long-handled brushes, buckets with covers, pop-up 

ultra pols, shoe and boot scrapers, EMS shears, 

2-gallon sprayers, chemical tape, caution tape, and 

Virkon® S test strips. 

A high-protection push pack contains fi ve modules:

• 2 Tyvek PPE modules, which include 450 PPE kits, 

a fi rst aid kit, bulk nitrile gloves, and boot covers;

• 1 Tychem module, which includes 150 PPE kits; 

• 1 decontamination module, which contains 

disposable aprons, isolation bags, Ziploc bags, 

long-handled brushes, buckets with covers, pop-up 

ultra pols, shoe and boot scrapers, EMS shears, 

2-gallon sprayers, chemical tape, caution tape, and 

Virkon S test strips; and

• 1 PAPR module, which contains the 3MTM Breathe 

EasyTM PAPR System.

If emergency vaccination is approved, you may also 

request a module containing vaccine ancillary supplies 

(e.g., needles, syringes, and sharps containers). In the 

event of a foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak, 

you may request a second vaccine ancillary supplies 

module containing pink FMD tags. This request 

is subject to North American FMD Vaccine Bank 

(NAFMDVB) approval; NVS stores the pink FMD tags 

for the NAFMDVB.

go.usdatraining.com/NVS_factsheet

Source: The National Veterinary Stockpile and the 24 Hour Push Pack (go.usdatraining.com/NVS_pushpack)
REFERENCES

13-14

Q. What sizes of PPE are included in each 24 Hour 

Push Pack?

A. Each PPE module contains 2XL and 3XL suits. The 

NVS staff determined, after careful consideration, that 

these two sizes fi t the vast majority of responders.

Q. Will all of the 24 Hour Push Packs arrive on 

one truck?

A. NVS can typically load 50 to 52 modules in one 

tractor trailer. This equates to 10 push packs, with 

the remaining 2 spaces available for possible vaccine 

ancillary supplies. If you require more than 10 push 

packs, expect more than one tractor trailer.

Q. Do the 24 Hour Push Packs arrive on pallets?

A. The push packs are fully contained in Tri-WallsTM, 

which consist of triple-walled, fi berboard sleeves, a 

plastic top, and a plastic bottom pallet. The sleeve can 

be locked with the bottom pallet and top to form a rigid 

and secure system that eliminates the requirement for 

banding, stretch wrap, or strapping material. They are 

40 inches by 48 inches and are either 45 inches or 

52 inches tall. The plastic top and bottom pallet can be 

removed and the sleeve folded for storage. Forklifts or 

pallet jacks move them easily.

Q. How are the 24 Hour Push Packs confi gured? 

How can I quickly identify items in the pack?

A. Each 24 Hour Push Pack consists of modules that 

are packed with like items. This allows warehouse 

personnel to quickly fi nd specifi c items; for example, all 

decontamination supplies are packed in modules that 

have been labeled with a number “4.” We also attach 

a detailed packing list to the outside of each module 

that identifi es the contents. A packing diagram for each 

module is included on a drop fl ap.

To expedite fi lling requests, the NVS uses the following 

color-coded labeling system to distinguish the contents 

of each module so that items can be located quickly: 

• Blue = PPE

• White = decontamination supplies

• Yellow = vaccines, antivirals, and vaccination 

supplies

• Green = PAPR systems 

Q. Can empty modules be used to ship supplies 

from a storage location to a premises?

A. Empty Tri-Walls must be returned to an NVS 

logistics center so that they can be reused. The NVS 

Deployment Management Team will arrange for pickup 

and transport back to one of our centers.

Q. If I have questions about the NVS, who should 

I contact?

A. Email us at nvs@aphis.usda.gov with any questions. 

More information is also available on our Web site 

at www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/emergency_

management/nvs.shtml.

United States Department of Agriculture • Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service • Safeguarding American Agriculture

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Mention of companies or commercial products does not imply 

recommendation or endorsement by the U.S. Department of 

Agriculture over others not mentioned. USDA neither guarantees 

nor warrants the standard of any product mentioned. Product names 

are mentioned solely to report factually on available data and to 

provide specifi c information.

go.usdatraining.com/NVS

Source: The National Veterinary Stockpile and the 24 Hour Push Pack (go.usdatraining.com/NVS_pushpack)
REFERENCES

13-15

APHIS Factsheet

Veterinary Services March 2013

Questions and Answers: 

The National Veterinary 

Stockpile and 3D Response 

Support Services 

The National Veterinary Stockpile (NVS) program, 

coordinated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 

(USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service 

(APHIS), provides support to States, Tribes, and 

Territories responding to damaging animal disease 

outbreaks. Within 24 hours, the NVS can provide 

veterinary countermeasures—including certain types 

of animal vaccines, antivirals, supplies, equipment, and 

response services—to animal health officials in affected 

areas. To learn more about this program, see the NVS 

factsheet on APHIS’ Web site at www.aphis.usda.gov/

publications/animal_health/content/printable_version/

veterinary_stockpile.pdf.

NVS provides depopulation, disposal, and decontamination 

(3D) response support through a variety of contractors.

Q. What are 3D response support services?

A. “3D” refers to depopulation, disposal, and 

decontamination activities. These activities commonly 

require the rapid deployment of large numbers of 

response personnel and equipment. The NVS 

maintains contracts with all-hazards emergency 

response companies to assist with 3D operations as 

needed and serves as the single point-of-contact within 

APHIS for 3D response support services.

Q. What types of services can 3D contractors 

provide?

A. 3D response support services include:

• surge personnel fully equipped with personal 

protective equipment; 

• decontamination equipment and mobile teams

to support fi eld responders onsite; 

• waste management and disposal, including 

carcass and debris recovery, handling, and 

disposal; 

• hazardous and infectious material 

transportation and access to landfi lls; 

• staging area setup and operations for distribution 

of equipment and materials; 

• certifi ed operators for special equipment,

including forklifts, skid loaders, and heavy 

trucks/equipment; and

• special equipment such as mobile command 

centers, emergency power and lighting, 

pumps/pressure washers, and satellite terminal 

and radio communications.

Q. How experienced are the 3D contractors in 

responding to agricultural emergencies?

A. All of our 3D contractors receive annual training 

from NVS specifi c to agricultural emergency response. 

We design this training to ensure that our contractors 

are profi cient—and efficient—in responding to these 

types of emergencies and in using NVS equipment and 

resources. Our contractors also participate in the NVS 

exercise program, which reinforces lessons learned and 

prepares them on an operational level for responding to 

agricultural emergencies. 

The 3D contractors are also highly trained in all-hazards 

emergency response and are capable of deploying with 

their own equipment and supplies. They are experts 

in decontamination and disposal operations, including 

State requirements for transporting and disposing of 

hazardous materials. The contractors operate within the 

National Incident Management System. 

Q. How quickly will 3D contractors arrive onsite? 

What is their surge capacity?

A. The 3D contractors will arrive within 24 hours of 

receiving the approval to deploy and report to Incident 

Command. Depending on services required, the 

contractors can deploy approximately 600 personnel 

within 72 hours and 1,000 personnel within a week.

Q. What happens if there are simultaneous events 

and multiple requests for 3D services? 

A. We work with multiple 3D contractors to ensure 

redundancy in coverage.

It is a common business practice in the all-hazards 

emergency response industry for companies to work 

together to get the job done. For example, during 

go.usdatraining.com/NVS_factsheet

Source: The National Veterinary Stockpile and the 24 Hour Push Pack (go.usdatraining.com/3D)
REFERENCES

13-16

the fi rst days of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill, 

NVS conducted an unannounced notifi cation exercise 

with our 3D contractors while conducting a full-scale 

deployment exercise with one of the 3D companies 

in attendance. All 3D contractors indicated they had 

the capability to respond to an agricultural emergency 

while responding to the oil spill at the same time.

Q. How do I request 3D services during an animal 

disease event?

A. Call our 24/7 emergency hotline at 1-800-940-6524.

Q. If I have questions about NVS or 3D services, 

who should I contact?

A. Email us at nvs@aphis.usda.gov with any 

questions. More information is also available on 

our Web site at www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/

emergency_management/nvs.shtml.

United States Department of Agriculture • Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service • Safeguarding American Agriculture

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

go.usdatraining.com/NVS

Source: The National Veterinary Stockpile and the 24 Hour Push Pack (go.usdatraining.com/3D)
REFERENCES

13-17

1

USDA Avian Influenza Response: 

Mass Depopulation and Carcass Disposal 

As part of its safeguarding mission, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) protects 

the health of the Nation’s livestock and poultry. USDA responds to major animal disease 

events, helping to keep dangerous diseases from spreading and threatening even more 

animals. USDA also works to reduce the economic impact of disease events. 

Since December 2014, USDA has confirmed cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza 

(HPAI) H5 in the Pacific, Central, and Mississippi flyways (or migratory bird paths). The 

disease has been found in wild birds, as well as in a few backyard and commercial 

poultry flocks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers the risk 

to people from these HPAI H5 infections to be low. No human cases of these HPAI H5 

viruses have been detected in the United States, Canada, or internationally. 

In responding to the detections, USDA must depopulate affected flocks to prevent the 

spread of this highly contagious disease to additional flocks and must safely dispose of all 

depopulated birds. USDA and State officials evaluate disposal options based on the size 

of the flock, local conditions, and applicable laws/regulations.

Mass Depopulation Method 

 HPAI eradication activities typically involve quarantine and movement controls, a 

humane depopulation component, disposal, and cleaning and disinfection activities.

 When depopulation is deemed necessary, Federal authorities, in conjunction with 

State and Tribal agricultural officials and industry, will euthanize infected birds and 

affected flocks. 

 USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) employs depopulation 

technologies that are humane, limit human exposure to the AI virus, and better 

accommodate large-scale eradication efforts. 

 The use of water-based foam has the potential to reduce the number of workers 

involved in depopulation efforts, decreases their exposure to zoonotic HPAI viruses, 

is relatively easy to deploy under field conditions, and will mitigate the physical 

threat to responders who depopulate animals in a structurally unsound building. 

Animal and Plant 

Health Inspection 

Service 

Veterinary Services 

May 2015 

Source: USDA Avian Influenza Response: Mass Depopulation and Carcass Disposal (go.usdatraining.com/depopulation)
REFERENCES

13-18

2

Biosecurity During Carcass Disposal 

If USDA determines that moving the carcasses to a landfill for disposal is the best 

available option, animal health officials will ensure this move is safe for both landfill 

operators and the general public, and that all necessary biosecurity steps are followed. 

General Carcass Disposal 

Q. What are the carcass disposal options? 

A. There are a variety of safe methods for carcass disposal. These methods include 

composting, onsite burial, incineration, rendering, and landfilling. 

Q. How do animal health officials decide which disposal method to use? 

A. USDA and its State partners evaluate disposal methods based on a variety of factors, 

including the size of the flock, space requirements, associated costs, local conditions, and 

applicable laws/regulations. There are benefits and limitations to using each method: 

 Composting. This method contains the virus to the farm and produces a soil 

amendment/fertilizer product. However, composting requires wide-open spaces and 

may not be feasible for all farming operations, such as egg layer facilities or other 

facilities where space is limited. 

 Burial. On-farm carcass burial must be approved by the State environmental 

regulatory agency and may not be permitted if the water table is close to the ground 

surface.

 Incineration. Incineration is another method that can be safely used to dispose of 

carcasses. The limitation of this method is that the fuel requirements are substantial 

and can be costly.

 Rendering. This involves processing carcasses until they are reduced to water, fat or 

tallow, and meat or bone meal. It is very effective but requires additional safety 

precautions to ensure that the virus does not become aerosolized during the rendering 

process and transported throughout the plant. It also necessitates disruption of the 

plant’s normal operations. 

 Landfilling. Landfilling allows safe and efficient disposal of large quantities of 

carcasses.

When necessary, USDA takes an integrated approach and uses a combination of some or 

all of these methods. 

Landfilling—Health and Safety Concerns 

Q. Is landfilling an environmentally safe option for HPAI carcass disposal?

A. Yes. Landfills are highly regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 

(EPA) and—in many cases—individual States to ensure that disposed materials do not 

present a risk to human health and the environment. Under EPA and State regulations, 

landfills are located, designed, operated, and monitored to ensure protection of the 

environment from contaminants that might be present. 

Source: USDA Avian Influenza Response: Mass Depopulation and Carcass Disposal (go.usdatraining.com/depopulation)
REFERENCES

13-19

3

Q. What measures are in place at the landfill to protect the environment? 

A. There are numerous, overlapping safety controls in place to protect the environment. 

For example, per EPA and State requirements, municipal solid waste landfills must 

include an impermeable liner overlaying 2 feet of clay soil along the bottom and sides of 

the landfill. This protects groundwater and soil from water that trickles through the 

landfill and absorbs some of its materials, referred to as leachate. In addition, a collection 

and removal system sits on top of the liner system and removes leachate from the landfill 

for treatment and disposal. 

Q. Will the carcasses in the landfill pose a threat to human health? 

A. No. The CDC considers the risk to people from these HPAI H5 infections to be low. 

No human cases of these HPAI H5 viruses have been detected in the United States, 

Canada, or internationally. In addition, the virus does not survive more than 6 days in 

carcasses held at room temperature. 

Carcass Transport 

Q. How will the carcasses be safely moved to the landfill? 

A. A clean trailer is brought onsite by State-licensed haulers and is fitted with a biosecure 

containment bag. The carcasses are then loaded into the biosecure containment bag, 

which is sealed, and the truck and trailer—including the exterior of the biosecure 

containment bag—are disinfected with EPA-registered products labeled for this use. 

Upon arrival at the landfill, the biosecure containment bag slides out and is immediately 

buried. The truck and trailer are then cleaned and disinfected again prior to leaving

the landfill. 

Q. Will moving the carcasses spread the virus to new locations or farms? 

A. No. USDA has conducted a thorough assessment of the risks associated with 

transporting such carcasses; the risk assessment found that, when transporting the 

carcasses is necessary, the movement can be done safely and will not spread the disease if 

the protocols described are followed. In addition, we employ several layers of redundant 

safety measures and carefully monitor all cleanup and disposal activities to ensure that 

they are done in compliance with USDA protocols. 

Q. Who is ultimately responsible for ensuring this transport is done safely? 

A. USDA is responsible for ensuring that carcasses are transported safely. Each truck 

carrying infected carcasses is issued a permit by USDA which allows it to move outside 

of the quarantine zone. USDA also establishes the requirements that must be met to allow 

such movement. 

Q. Has this been done successfully in previous disease outbreaks? 

A. Yes. USDA has successfully used landfilling in several major disease situations over 

the years. In 2002, USDA used landfills to dispose of turkeys infected with low 

pathogenic avian influenza in Virginia and routinely uses landfilling in Wisconsin to 

dispose of cervid carcasses infected with chronic wasting disease. 

Source: USDA Avian Influenza Response: Mass Depopulation and Carcass Disposal (go.usdatraining.com/depopulation)
REFERENCES

13-20

4

Q. Is there anything the public or producers in the area need to do? 

A. All bird owners, whether commercial producers or backyard enthusiasts, need

to continue: 

 practicing good biosecurity,

 preventing contact between their birds and wild birds, and

 reporting sick birds or unusual bird deaths to State/Federal officials, either through 

your State veterinarian or through USDA’s toll-free number at 1-866-536-7593. 

You can find more information online at http://healthybirds.aphis.usda.gov.

  

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Source: USDA Avian Influenza Response: Mass Depopulation and Carcass Disposal (go.usdatraining.com/depopulation)
REFERENCES

13-21

1

Please note: These procedures may be revised as the situation develops.

DOCUMENT HISTORY & RELATED DOCUMENTS

This document updates and supersedes the following documents:

 Timeline to Restocking & Environmental Sampling Procedures

 Restocking Criteria for Previously Infected Premises.

Please also see the following, related policy documents (www.aphis.usda.gov/fadprep):

 Protocol for Environmental Sample Collection and Testing for AI Virus

 Cleaning & Disinfection Basics (Virus Elimination).

INTENDED USE

This document provides guidance to State Animal Health Officials (SAHOs), USDA Animal and Plant 

Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Officials, and Incident Management Teams (IMTs) for the restocking of 

highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI)-infected commercial poultry premises. This includes the timeline 

to restocking and criteria that must be met for premises to restock.

In order for premises to restock after HPAI infection, they must meet the minimum time requirements, all

criteria laid out in this document, AND be approved to restock. Being approved to restock indicates that in 

addition to finishing all the steps in the restocking process, the premises has met any additional criteria 

that may have been laid out by the State or APHIS, and that State and APHIS officials have agreed in 

writing that the premises can be restocked.

BIOSECURITY MEASURES

All biosecurity practices currently in place on the premises (including use of personal protective equipment 

[PPE]) will be followed for activities discussed in this document, including sample collection for 

environmental testing and final inspection of the premises prior to quarantine release. The level of PPE 

needed for different activities (environmental sampling, for example) will be determined by the SAHOs 

and/or IMTs.

TIMELINE TO RESTOCKING OF PREVIOUSLY INFECTED PREMISES

The timelines provided below offer guidance on just the steps, time, and sampling it takes to reach the 

point to be eligible to begin the restocking process and, ultimately, approved to restock.

Timelines for Restocking for Premises Using Composting

Please see Figures 1 through 3 for the timelines on premises using composting. Figure 1 covers in-house 

composting, Figure 2 covers outdoor composting, and Figure 3 covers the combination of inhouse/outdoor composting.

For premises using composting, environmental sampling inside the houses/barns occurs after the compost 

pile is complete and removed from inside the barns. For outdoor composting, environmental sampling 

inside the houses/barns can occur after the houses/barns are cleaned and disinfected.

FY2016 HPAI Response

Timeline, Eligibility, and Approval for 

Restocking

March 30, 2016

FY2016 HPAI Response

Timeline, Eligibility, and Approval for Restocking

Source: Timeline, Eligibility, and Approval for Restocking (go.usdatraining.com/criteriarestock)
REFERENCES

13-22

2

Please note: There is no requirement OR option to release compost based upon compost sample testing.

Figure 1. Timeline for Disposal & Premises Restocking:

IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING

IP Quarantined

IP Depopulated

Compost Pile Created/

Set in House

AND

C&D of Outside Areas

3300 DDaayyss 2211 DDaayyss

Compost Complete/

Removed from Houses

(Stays on Premises)

AND

C&D of Inside Areas

IP Quarantine

Release

Compost Pile Turned Once

at No-Sooner than 14 Days

AND

Temp. Recorded

(Appropriate Temp. Must be

Reached & Documented for

Specific Period)

Environmental Sampling in

Barns/Houses Begins

When Disinfection

Completed

Owner Assumes

Responsibility for

Compost Disposition

IP Confirmed

Positive

Premises Restocked

(see next section on

restocking eligibility

and approval)

Figure 2. Timeline for Disposal & Premises Restocking:

OUTDOOR COMPOSTING

IP Quarantined

IP Depopulated

Compost Piles

Created/Set Outside of

House

3300 DDaayyss

IP Quarantine

Release

C&D All Areas on

Premises

Owner Assumes

Responsibility for

Compost Disposition

IP Confirmed

Positive

Environmental Sampling

in Barns/Houses Begins

When Disinfection

Completed

Compost Pile Turned

Once at No-Sooner than

14 Days AND

Temp. Recorded

(Appropriate Temp. Must

be Reached &

Documented for Specific

Period)

Premises Restocked

(see next section on

restocking eligibility

and approval)

Source: Timeline, Eligibility, and Approval for Restocking (go.usdatraining.com/criteriarestock)
REFERENCES

13-23

3

Figure 3. Timeline for Disposal & Premises Restocking:

COMBO OF IN-HOUSE/OUTDOOR COMPOSTING 

IP Quarantined

IP Depopulated

Compost Pile Created/

Set in House

AND

C&D of Outside Areas

2211DDaayyss

IP Quarantine

Release

Compost Pile Turned

Once at No-Sooner than

14 Days AND

Temp. Recorded

(Appropriate Temp. Must

be Reached &

Documented for Specific

Period)

Owner Assumes

Responsibility for

Compost Disposition

IP Confirmed

Positive

1144DDaayyss

Compost Piles Moved

Outside of House at

No-Sooner than 14

Days

C&D of Inside Areas

on Premises

Environmental Sampling

in Barns/Houses Begins

When Disinfection

Completed

3300DDaayyss

Premises Restocked

(see next section on

restocking eligibility

and approval)

Timeline for Restocking for Premises Using Burial

For premises using burial, environmental sampling is performed inside the houses/barns after the 

premises is cleaned and disinfected following disposal. Figure 4 provides the restocking timeline for 

premises using burial.

Figure 4. Timeline for Disposal & Premises Restocking: BURIAL

IP Quarantined

IP Depopulated

Burial Occurs

2211 DDaayyss

IP Quarantine

Release

C&D All Areas on

Premises

IP Confirmed

Positive

Environmental

Sampling in Barns/

Houses Begins

When Disinfection

Completed

Premises Restocked

(see next section on

restocking eligibility

and approval)

Source: Timeline, Eligibility, and Approval for Restocking (go.usdatraining.com/criteriarestock)
REFERENCES

13-24

4

RESTOCKING PREVIOUSLY INFECTED PREMISES

A primary goal of the HPAI response is to ensure that the response efforts and activities do not cause 

more damage and disruption than the disease outbreak itself. However, restocked premises that 

subsequently become infected with HPAI a second time place added stress on already strained 

resources and continue the risk of ongoing HPAI transmission in commercial poultry. As such, APHIS 

urges appropriate caution restocking premises in an HPAI outbreak.

Restocking Assessments

Two assessments must occur to restock previously infected premises:

1. An assessment of the previously Infected Premises being restocked. This includes the 

environmental sampling results and assessment of whether the premises has met the timeline 

requirements in Figures 1-4 (as applicable to the specific premises).

2. An assessment of the surrounding area or Control Area in which the Infected Premises is located. 

Assessment information includes the epidemiological curve (rate of new infected premises), 

geospatial risk factors, and other epidemiological risk factors for the previously infected premises.

Indemnity

APHIS will not indemnify previously Infected Premises that are restocked without written APHIS and State 

approval and subsequently become an Infected Premises a second time. For premises that meet the 

following criteria, including written approval by APHIS and State officials that restocking can occur, full 

indemnification will be provided by APHIS as funds are available. 

Restocking Process

When a premises finishes virus elimination, and a final inspection of the premises has been completed, 

the premises enters the restocking phase of the response. At this point, the premises can begin the 

restocking process (in other words, the premises is “eligible to begin the restocking process/pending 

restock approval”), but is not yet approved to restock. 

In order to restock a previously Infected Premises, all of the following criteria must be met:

1. The owner and/or grower meets, for the original Infected Premises, the requirements of the

a. State Quarantine Notice or Hold Order(s); AND

b. USDA Flock Plan.

2. An assessment that the premises meets the minimum conditions laid out in this document with 

regard to timeline to restocking, including the

a. Minimum fallow time, for the method of disposal chosen; AND

b. Environmental sampling, with no evidence of HPAI infection.

3. In consultation with State animal health officials, the owner evaluates risk factors at the start of the 

21 day fallow period (that begins upon completion of virus elimination activities).

When these three steps have been completed, the premises can then seek approval to restock from 

APHIS and State officials. To restate: a premises may only seek approval to restock when the premises is 

21-days post completion of final virus elimination, environmental sampling is complete and shows no 

evidence of HPAI, and the premises meets requirements of the State Quarantine Notice/Hold Order and 

the USDA Flock Plan. 

Source: Timeline, Eligibility, and Approval for Restocking (go.usdatraining.com/criteriarestock)
REFERENCES

13-25

5

Approval for Restocking

After all of the above criteria are met in the “Restocking Process” section, premises become ready for 

State and APHIS officials to approve the restocking. Additional criteria, particularly further biosecurity 

measures, may be required by State and/or APHIS officials in order for the premises to be restocked; 

State requirements may vary by State:

1. The owner and/or grower will complete any additional surveillance, biosecurity procedures, and 

requirements for movement as may be required by the State and APHIS upon and following 

restocking. These biosecurity requirements may include, but are not limited to, the following areas:

a. Cleaning and disinfection procedures for all movement onto the farm and all movement into 

and between barns.

b. Personnel-specific biosecurity measures, including barn specific clothing not to be worn 

outside.

c. Exclusion of wild birds and rodents from the barn structure.

d. Measures to ensure feed and water are not contaminated by wild birds or their feces.

e. Immediate mitigation of standing water, feed spills, and other environmental factors that 

may attract wild birds.

f. Elimination of visits by non-essential personnel.

After State/APHIS criteria have been met and State and APHIS officials have assessed the Control Area, 

they will approve, in writing, that the premises can be restocked. The premises is now “approved to 

restock.” This means that the premises has met all the requirements set by State and APHIS officials to be 

approved to restock, and has a signed restock agreement. In some cases, the formal Restock Approval 

Letter may be issued a few days prior to the end of the fallow period; however, the premises cannot 

restock until the date on the Letter. Any USDA Flock Plan requirements pertaining to restocking remain in 

place.

Premises that are Eligible but Not Approved for Restocking

At times, a premises may have completed the 21-day fallow period and have negative environmental 

testing, but not be approved to restock because of ongoing disease cases in the Control Area. These 

premises are “eligible to begin the restocking process/pending restock approval” until State and APHIS 

officials assess the Control Area and determine that a Restock Approval Letter can be issued to the 

premises. At this point the premises is “approved to restock.”

Premises that Do Not Plan to Restock

There may be the case in which a premises does not plan to restock immediately or in the near future and 

therefore does not seek a Restock Approval Letter (but may complete the rest of the steps outlined 

above). These premises will continue to be “Pending Restock Approval” until State and/or APHIS officials 

approve, in writing, that the premises can be restocked. The steps in the “Restocking Process” section 

must be documented in EMRS in the same manner regardless of the premises’ intention to obtain a 

Restock Approval Letter from State/APHIS officials.

Testing for Restocked Birds

Birds used for restocking must be from flocks tested for HPAI. These flocks must be tested for HPAI prior 

to movement; the minimum standard is 2 negative rRT-PCR tests at least 24 hours apart, with one 

negative test within 24 hours of movement.

Source: Timeline, Eligibility, and Approval for Restocking (go.usdatraining.com/criteriarestock)
14-1

SECTION 14 Appendices

Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks ........... I

Landfills and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Response............. II

National Renderers Association Directory ......................................................... III

Permitted Movement............................................................................................... IV

University of Minnesota Risk Assessment.........................................................V
1

Please note: These procedures may be revised as the situation develops.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY OF THE METHOD

Composting is a biological heating process that results in the natural degradation of 

organic resources (such as poultry carcasses) by microorganisms. Composting has 

been successfully used throughout the United States for nearly two decades to control 

outbreaks of low pathogenicity avian influenza (LPAI) and highly pathogenic avian 

influenza (HPAI). Composting can be effective with most bird types and poultry house 

designs. 

Microbial activity within a well-constructed compost pile can generate and maintain 

temperatures sufficient to inactivate the avian influenza virus. The effectiveness of this 

virus inactivation process can be assessed by evaluating compost temperatures and the 

shape of the time and temperature curve, visual observation of carcass decomposition,

and the homogeneity of the compost mix. 

Successful mortality composting requires the following:

1. A qualified composting expert to guide windrow construction.

2. Trained equipment operators.

3. Sufficient carbon, water, and space.

If any of these components is lacking, composting is NOT recommended.

Prepared by members of the USDA Composting Technical Committee: Lori P. Miller, Gary A. 

Flory, Robert W. Peer, Eric S. Bendfeldt, Mark L. Hutchinson, Mark A. King, Bill Seekins, 

George W. Malone, Joshua B. Payne, Jerry Floren, Edward Malek, Mary Schwarz, and Jean 

Bonhotal

FY2016 HPAI Response

Mortality Composting Protocol for 

Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

February 5, 2016

Completed windrow (photo by Gary Flory)
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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CONTENTS

Key Elements for Successful Composting....................................................................... 3

Labor, Equipment, and Supplies ..................................................................................... 3

Protocol........................................................................................................................... 3

Prior to Windrow Construction ..................................................................................... 3

Typical Windrow Construction Protocol ....................................................................... 4

Layering Method.......................................................................................................... 7

Approval of Windrow Design ....................................................................................... 7

Temperature Monitoring .............................................................................................. 7

Turning the Windrows.................................................................................................. 8

Release of the Compost .............................................................................................. 8

Composting Layer Manure and Waste Feed ............................................................... 8

Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................. 9

Appendix A Siting a Compost Location for Disposal of Poultry Carcasses ................... 10

Appendix B Methods of Estimating Carbon (Bulking Agent) Needs .............................. 12

Appendix C Variations on Typical Windrow Construction Protocol ............................... 14

Appendix D Temperature Monitoring Procedure ........................................................... 17

Appendix E Temperature Monitoring Log Sheet ........................................................... 19

Appendix F In-House Composting Ammonia Safety ..................................................... 20

Appendix G Compost Approval Checklist...................................................................... 21

Appendix H Windrow Turning Equipment and Methods................................................ 26

Appendix I Characteristics of Raw Material................................................................... 28
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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KEY ELEMENTS FOR SUCCESSFUL COMPOSTING

The role of the Subject Matter Expert (SME) is to ensure that these key elements are 

followed in the construction of compost windrows:

1. Windrows (typically 6 to 8 feet high and 12 to 15 feet wide) are constructed on an 

adequate and uniform base layer (10 to 15 inches thick) of a sufficiently porous 

and absorbent carbon material. 

2. The base layer and windrow are not compacted with equipment.

3. Good carcass to carbon contact is ensured by creating a core with a minimum 1:1 

mix, by volume, of carcasses, carbon, and other infected material (manure, egg 

shells, feed, etc.). DO NOT GRIND/CRUSH/MACERATE THE CARCASSES 

DURING CONSTRUCTION!

4. Windrows should be constructed to ensure adequate distribution of moisture 

throughout; the windrows are capped with carbon material (8 to 12 inches thick) to 

ensure that no carcasses are exposed and to minimize odor. 

5. Windrow dimensions, including the 

base and cap, may be reduced for 

smaller carcasses.

LABOR, EQUIPMENT,

AND SUPPLIES 

 Skilled equipment operators and 

general laborers;

 skid loader(s), pay loaders, dump 

trucks, rakes, and scoops;

 sawdust, litter, wood shavings, corn stover, active compost, seed and nut hulls, 

woodchips, or other carbon material; and

 compost thermometers (36” or 48” stem length).

PROTOCOL

Prior to Windrow Construction

 Evaluate barn configuration to determine if space is adequate for windrow(s) 

construction within the poultry barns. If not, assess other on-site structures or 

outside compost sites. 

‒ To assess outside sites, see Appendix A.

 Evaluate type and quantity of infected materials to be composted:

‒ Carcass: type, size, number and condition 

‒ In-barn manure/litter: volume, moisture content, density

Pay loader used for clearing the base (photo by Josh Payne)
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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‒ Stored manure/litter: volume, moisture content, density

‒ Feed: quantity, location

 Empty feed from feed bins and pans, distribute evenly into the mix.

‒ Eggs: quantity and condition

‒ Clean bedding

‒ Paper products

‒ Non-infected manure compost.

 Calculate the amount of carbon needed for composting:

‒ See Appendix B for calculations.

‒ The characteristics of various materials are listed in Appendix I.

 Evaluate premise for supplemental water:

‒ Source

‒ Application method.

 Evaluate on-farm equipment and determine supplemental equipment needs.

 Ensure all overhead lines and poultry house equipment are removed or out of the 

way. Secure any loose cords, cables or hoses so that they will not become 

entangled by equipment.

 Minimize ventilation to reduce the risk of disease transmission while balancing air 

quality for worker safety.

 Transfer all infected on-site materials into compost windrows.

Typical Windrow Construction Protocol

Three critical elements of windrow construction are: 1) a porous base layer, 2) a 

uniformly mixed windrow core, and 3) an adequate cap (see Figure 1). These steps may 

be done concurrently or as separate steps.

Figure 1. Cross Section of Compost Windrow
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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Windrow Base Construction

 Before in-house composting, clear carcasses 

and litter from the windrow location(s) of the 

poultry house to create a 12–15 foot wide work 

area for construction of the windrow base(s).

Distribute the material from on either side of the 

pathway. (See Appendix C for in-house 

variations.)

 Before outside composting, an adequate site 

must be identified (see Appendix A). Site 

modifications and approval from State and local 

agencies may be required. 

 Using the largest loader possible, begin building 

the windrow base. 

 The windrow base should be 12–15 feet wide 

with a depth of 10 to 15 inches. (Note: base will 

compress over time.)

‒ Carbon material for the base should be porous and bulky enough to allow 

adequate air flow into and through the windrow. Ideal materials for the base 

include bark mulch or coarse wood chips. Other acceptable materials include:

straw, wood shavings, active compost, small grain hulls, and corn stover. Also,

coarse woody material in excess of 2 inches in size should be avoided to ensure 

that the resulting compost can be land applied as a soil amendment. 

‒ If these materials are not available, poultry litter may be used for the windrow 

base if it is sufficiently dry, porous, and bulky.

‒ To maintain the base’s porosity and to avoid compaction, do not drive 

equipment on the base.

Construction of the Core

 The windrow core should consist of a 

uniform mix of carcasses and litter. The 

easiest way to get a uniform mix 

throughout the windrow is to scoop litter 

and birds together in each bucket load 

and add it to the windrow in a manner 

that thoroughly mixes the contents of the 

bucket. If additional carbon material is 

needed, the material should support heat 

generation (i.e., composting). Suitable 

materials include fresh wood shavings, 

active compost, poultry litter, straw, corn stover, and small grain hulls. In many 

instances this material may need to be blended with the existing litter and 

carcasses to be suitable.

Constructing the core (photo by Bob Peer)

Clearing the base (photo by Gary Flory)
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

6

‒ Any remaining feed should be blended and mixed with the carcasses and litter 

before windrow construction. Be sure to move infected material as little as 

possible. 

‒ The mix of carcasses and litter should be added from both sides of the windrow.

This allows the operators to reach the center of the windrow and avoid 

compacting the base with the tires or tracks of the loader.

‒ The windrow core should be constructed such that 1 foot of base material is 

exposed on both sides of the windrow. 

‒ Add water as needed.

‒ The core should be dome-shaped and of sufficient height to include the litter and 

carcass mix from the area adjacent to the windrow. At this stage, the windrow 

height should not exceed 6 feet.

 Continue building the core until all of the litter and carcasses have been placed on 

the base.

 An alternate method of using pre-compost 

windrows is described in Appendix C.

Capping the Windrow

 Prior to capping the windrow, remove any 

carcasses that are near the edge of the 

windrow base and include them in the core of 

the windrow.

 Cap the windrow with 8 to 12 inches of a 

suitable carbon material. Carbon material for 

the cap should prevent flies from contacting 

carcasses, serve as an insulating blanket, and 

allow air to flow out of the piles. This material may be finer in texture than the base.

Suitable material includes small grain hulls, sawdust, new bedding, and wood 

chips. Straw, corn fodder, or similar material may also be suitable; however,

experience has shown that these products can blow off the windrow and may need 

to be thicker to serve this purpose than other materials. 

 Ensure that the entire core is uniformly covered with cap material with no 

carcasses exposed. 

 Avoid compacting the windrow. Do not operate the loader’s tires or tracks onto the 

sides of the windrow while capping.

 The completed windrow should be approximately 6 to 8 feet high.

 Windrows should be numbered and flagged by the SME at a minimum of 10

temperature monitoring locations spaced equidistantly the length of each windrow.

Smoothing the cap on an outside windrow 

(photo by Gary Flory)
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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Layering Method

As an alternative to the core construction 

method described previously, the 

windrow core can be constructed by 

layering carcasses and carbon material.

Base and cap construction is the same 

as in the standard protocol. Following 

base construction, proceed in the 

following manner:

 Add a 12–15 inch layer of litter and 

birds, then cover with a 12–15 inch 

layer of wood chips or other carbon source. 

 Add another layer of litter and 

birds until the windrow is two or 

three layers high and as long 

as needed. 

 Cover the windrow with an 8–

12 inch layer of wood chips or 

other carbon sources. The 

finished pile should be 6 to 8 

feet high.

The SME may choose to use 

either or both of these construction 

techniques depending on site conditions.

Approval of Windrow Design

SMEs should evaluate the windrows to ensure that they have been constructed 

consistently with this protocol. Approval will be documented on the Compost Approval 

Checklist in Appendix G. 

Temperature Monitoring

Once the windrow construction has been approved by the SME, daily temperature 

monitoring can begin following the standard temperature monitoring SOP found in 

Appendix D. Temperature data should be collected on the temperature log included in 

Appendix E or in a comparable electronic document. The health and safety of the 

individual conducting the temperature monitoring should be protected by following the 

ammonia safety procedures outlined in Appendix F. 

Layering method (photo by Mary Schwarz)
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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Turning the Windrows

After the State Animal Health Official (SAHO), APHIS Official, Incident Management 

Team (IMT) Official, or SME has provided their approval based on windrow design and 

an evaluation of the temperature data collected during the initial 14-day compost cycle

(Phase 1), the windrow is eligible for turning. Approval will be documented on the 

Compost Approval Checklist in Appendix G. No turning is allowed before the end of the 

14-day period. Turning needs to provide for the homogenization of the core, base, and 

cap materials. Windrows need to maintain adequate porosity and structure after turning.

If soft tissue is observed on the windrow surface, a 2 to 4 inch carbonaceous cap should

be applied. See Appendix H for turning equipment and methods.

Release of the Compost

After the SAHO, APHIS Official, IMT Official, or SME has provided their approval 

based on windrow design and an evaluation of the temperature data collected during 

the second 14-day compost cycle (Phase 2), the compost may be moved without 

restriction on the premises or may leave the premises with appropriate permits. 

Approval will be documented on the Compost Approval Checklist in Appendix G. 

Composting Egg-Layer Manure and Waste Feed

During an HPAI outbreak, there may be a need to compost layer manure and waste 

feed. This may be because the producer has chosen to dispose of their poultry 

mortalities by a method other than composting—such as on site burial, incineration, or 

landfilling—or because there was more manure on the farm than could be practically 

composted with the poultry carcasses. In general, the compost process used for these 

materials is identical to the windrow construction process described above. However, 

because of the density of the manure and feed, it is imperative that the material be 

thoroughly blended with carbonaceous materials to help ensure proper porosity within 

the windrows. Generally, manure can be composted with a 1:1 mix of manure and 

carbonaceous material. Often, layer manure has a high moisture content or is extremely 

dry depending on manure management, and the moisture content of the windrows may 

need to be adjusted. 
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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TROUBLESHOOTING

The table below describes some of the most common composting problems and 

possible solutions.

Problem Issue Solution

Excessive flies or odor Exposed carcasses Add additional cap material

Leachate from windrow Mixture too wet Add additional carbon material, 

mix and cap

Temperature does not reach 131 oF Mixture too dry (< 40% 

moisture)

Add water to pile, mix if 

necessary

Temperature does not reach 131 oF Mixture too wet (> 60 

% moisture)

Add additional carbon material, 

mix if necessary

Temperature drops early Not enough oxygen Aerate or mix pile
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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APPENDIX A

SITING A COMPOST LOCATION FOR DISPOSAL OF POULTRY 

CARCASSES

Selection and siting of environmentally suitable and appropriate locations for 

composting of poultry carcasses infected with avian influenza is an important 

consideration in the disease management process. Because of the virulent nature of 

this disease, it is important to locate such sites within or in close proximity to the 

infected premises. The site access should be able to handle heavy truck traffic and 

allow for biosecurity around the site’s perimeter, securing access to and from the site.

Additionally, due to the relative putrescibility of the carcasses and associated litter, it is 

critical to choose sites that will not be adversely impacted by potential releases of 

nutrient-laden leachate nor will result in nuisance complaints in the event that odors, 

flies, or scavengers begin to appear on-site. 

HPAI compost site (photo by Mark King)

In general, emergency poultry mortality compost sites should be large enough to 

accommodate all of the generated carcasses, litter, waste feed, and other contaminated 

materials, as well as have the ability to store any additional amendment materials that 

may be needed for successful composting. Along with the criteria noted above, ideal 

HPAI compost sites should

 be located such that the prevailing wind directions do not travel to nearby residences 

(whenever possible),

 be located at the top of the slope of the field, on moderately-well to well drained soils 

(usually land that is used for crop production),

 have a gentle 2%–4% slope to encourage on-site drainage,

 contain on-site soil depths in excess of 24 inches to seasonal high water tables,

 contain on-site soil depths in excess of 36 inches to bedrock,
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

11

 not be located on a flood plain,

 be constructed or designated for the current emergency,

 have (or construct) diversion ditches, terraces, or berms to direct surface water flows 

and storm water away from active compost piles. (Note that if piles are located 

between production houses, then roof and surface drainage should be directed away 

from the compost area), and

 the edges of the identified site should have these following minimum setbacks, 

including:

‒ 200 feet from a water supply well used for drinking;

‒ 200 feet from water bodies, including: ponds, lakes, streams, rivers;

‒ 200 feet from a nearby residence (not owned by the premises);

‒ 50 feet from a drainage swale that leads to a water body (see above); and

‒ 25 feet from a drainage swale that does not lead to a water body.

Reprinted with permission from Cornell Waste Management Institute
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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APPENDIX B

METHODS OF ESTIMATING CARBON (BULKING AGENT) NEEDS

Methodology

Described below are three approaches to estimating the amount of additional 

carbonaceous materials needed to compost poultry carcasses. All three require 

estimating the volume of litter in a building. To do this:

1. Obtain the length and width of the building.

2. Estimate the average depth of existing litter.

3. Calculate cubic feet of existing litter = length (in feet) × width (in feet) × depth (in 

inches) /12.

4. Convert to cubic yards: volume of litter in cubic feet/27 = cubic yards of litter.

5. Modify the estimate based on the condition of litter (volume should be reduced if 

there is a large volume of ‘cake’ or of very wet litter).

Once an estimate of the existing litter has been made, an estimate of the total amount 

of carbonaceous material is needed. Below are three approaches for estimating the 

total.

Method 1. Weight Based Estimate

a. Effective in-house composting must have a minimum of 1.5 pounds of carbon 

material (based on bulk density of 30 pounds/cubic foot material) per pound of bird,

(1 pound of carbon per pound of bird for the base and cover and the remaining 

carbon for the mix).

b. Determine total pounds of birds

i. Pounds of birds = number of birds × average weight in pounds.

c. Determine total pounds carbon needed 

i. Total carbon = pounds of birds (from above) × 1.5.

d. Determine pounds of litter in house

i. Cubic feet of litter in house (see above)

ii. Pounds of litter = cubic feet of litter × weight of a cubic foot of litter (Average bulk 

density = 30 pounds; Range = 25 to 35 pounds).

e. Determine amount of additional carbon needed 

i. Cubic yards of additional carbon needed = ((total pounds of carbon neededpounds of litter in house)/(weight per cubic feet of carbon material))/(27)

1. wood chips, litter or wet sawdust = 30 pounds/cubic foot

2. dry sawdust = 15 pounds/cubic foot.
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

13

Method 2. Volume Based Estimate

a. Assume bulk density of litter is 30 pounds/cubic foot or approximately 800 

pounds/cubic yard. This means the following:

i. Each 20 pound bird requires 30 pounds or 1 cubic foot of carbon material

ii. Each 40 pound bird requires 60 pound or 2 cubic feet of carbon material.

b. To calculate total carbon material needs, perform the following calculations:

i. Multiply number of 20 pound birds by 1 to get cubic feet then divide by 27 for 

cubic yards.

ii. Multiply number of 40 pound birds by 2 to get cubic feet then divide by 27 for 

cubic yards.

c. To estimate additional volume needed, subtract the total volume of litter in the 

building (see above) from the total volume of carbon material required.

Method 3. Computerized Estimator

a. First, use the Spartan Emergency Animal Tissue Composting Planner v1.03 to 

estimate the total amount of amendment needed.

b. Then use the Spartan Compost Recipe Optimizer v1.04 to estimate the 

amounts/proportions of amendments needed; given the availability of amendments 

(poultry manure, poultry litter, sawdust, bark, etc.).

c. Go to this site: http://msue.anr.msu.edu/program/info/managing_animal_mortalities

and then select “Composting Tools.”
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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APPENDIX C

VARIATIONS ON TYPICAL WINDROW 

CONSTRUCTION PROTOCOL

Variations Based on House Design

The three critical elements of a porous base 

layer, a uniformly mixed windrow core, and 

an adequate cap, must be maintained for 

successful virus inactivation regardless of 

variations in house design, bird size, or 

available carbon material. 

Pole Supported Houses

 Although the support poles may limit the maneuverability of the loaders, the 

windrow construction protocol remains the same. 

 Avoid constructing windrows against wooden support poles.

 Additional time will be required to construct windrows in this type of house due to 

space and structural constraints. 

 Depending on the width of the house and the pole configuration, two windrows 

may need to be constructed instead of a single windrow in the center of the house.

 Due to structural constraints and limited maneuverability, experienced and skilled 

loader operators are required to minimize damage to the building and equipment.

Pole house with 2 windrows (photo by Josh Payne)

Typical pole house design (photo by Bob Peer)
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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Turkey Breeder Houses

 Although designs of turkey breeder houses may vary, generally the nests and 

other equipment can be moved to the center and sides of the house to make 

space for the construction of two windrows.

 Because of limited operating space, 

windrows may need to be shorter (5 feet 

tall) and narrower (10 feet wide). This will 

allow the loader operator to construct the 

windrow core and place the cap from one

side of the windrow.

 Eggs and feed should be evenly distributed 

onto the core of the windrow. 

 Eggs should be broken with the loader 

bucket to facilitate decomposition and 

inactivation of virus.

Breeder Turkey Toms

 Breeder toms can weigh between 60 and 80 pounds.

 Due to their size, more carbon material may be required to maintain good carcass to 

carbon contact. 

 Handling and placing the carcasses in the windrow may be difficult due to their size 

and the tendency of the carcasses to roll to the edge of the windrow. Additional labor 

may be necessary to appropriately position the carcasses on the windrow. 

 Additional capping material may be needed to ensure that all carcasses are 

adequately covered.

Broiler-Breeder Houses with a

Center Scratch Area

 Slats and nests need to be moved 

outside the house after depopulation.

 Carcasses and litter in scratch area 

should be scooped up with a loader(s)

and dumped onto the middle of the 

manure which was under the slats. 

Place equal amount of carcasses on 

both manure piles.

 Dump any feed onto the manure.

 Bring in carbon material to build a base 

10 inches deep and 12 foot wide in the scratch area. Ensure that the base does not 

touch the wooden slat supports.

Windrow in a turkey breeder house 

(photo by Gary Flory)

Typical broiler-breeder house with center 

scratch area (photo by Bob Peer)
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

16

 Using the loader(s), mix the carcasses, manure and feed, and place this core mix on 

the base, maintaining 8 to 10 inches around the edge of the base. Work from both 

sides as you progress down the house making sure there is enough core mix placed 

on the base to evenly distribute the material the length of the house.

 Using the loader(s), place 8 to10 inches of woodchips or bark mulch on top of the 

core mix, making sure that this cap does not touch the wooden slat support and that 

all carcasses are covered.

Broiler-Breeder Houses with Scratch Areas on the Sides

 The manure from under the center slats will be placed on the carcasses in the side 

scratch areas.

 Follow same procedure as above for building the windrow in the area under the 

center slats.

Variation of the Standard Core Construction Technique

Pre-Compost Windrows

An alternative construction method, which increases the amount of carbon material 

mixed within the windrow core, is to form 2 pre-compost windrows, cap, and then form 1 

final windrow. This is especially useful when dealing with large amounts of carcass 

material relative to litter, creating a significant C:N imbalance, or when additional carbon 

material will increase porosity. Forming pre-compost windrows also stabilizes the tissue 

and begins a heating process until a 

single windrow can be constructed.

 Remove litter and carcasses 

along sidewalls and the center of 

the house, forming 2 precompost windrows extending the 

length of the house. 

 Cap each windrow with 8–12 

inches of suitable carbon 

material. 

Pre-compost windrows (photo by Josh Payne)
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

17

 In the center of the house, construct a 12–15 feet wide base that is 10–15 inches 

deep. 

 Combine both capped windrows 

onto the base, mixing litter, 

carcasses, and added carbon 

material.

 Cap the final windrow with 8–12 

inches of suitable carbon 

material.

APPENDIX D

TEMPERATURE MONITORING 

PROCEDURE

Monitor temperatures of the windrow daily at a minimum 

of 10 locations flagged by the SME. The temperature 

monitoring locations should be spaced equidistantly the 

length of each windrow. Take two temperature readings 

at each flagged location within a foot of the flag; one 

reading at a depth of 18 inches and another reading at a 

depth of 36 inches. To ensure consistent temperature 

monitoring to the same depth, mark the thermometer 

probe at 18 inches and 36 inches. Place the 

temperature probe 3⁄4 of the way up the windrow at a 45 

degree angle. Ideally, temperatures should be monitored 

by a single individual for consistency. Temperature probes should be calibrated before 

use. 

Instructions

 Turn on fans or open the doors and curtains 

to all the houses containing compost piles to 

allow them to air out and to maximize 

ventilation.

 USE THE BUDDY SYSTEM. Entering a barn 

with active compost or dead birds requires a 

two person team. 

 Place the stem of the thermometer 

approximately 18 inches and then 36 inches 

into the compost pile half way up the pile at a 

45 degree angle.

 Leave the thermometer at each depth and point for at least 60 seconds.

Example temperature 

monitoring locations

Final windrow (photo by Josh Payne)
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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 Log the reading from the thermometer from each 

flag and at both depths.

 Compare readings to previous day’s readings.

 After completing the house readings, close the 

doors and curtains.

 Calculate the average temperature for each pile by 

averaging both depths and note it on the 

Composting Temperature Log.

 Windrows should reach an average temperature of 

131 °F for a minimum of 72 hours at both the 18 

inch and 36 inch depths or be assessed by a SME 

for possible corrective measures.

 Disinfect the thermometer and return it to its protective case.

 Each thermometer will be kept at the respective premises being monitored. Do not 

take a thermometer from one premise to another.

 If 3 days after initial windrow construction, compost temperature averages are 

consistently (more than 3 days) below 100 °F or greater than 160 °F, a SME should 

be consulted immediately.

 During Phase 2, a SME should be consulted immediately if any monitoring location 

is consistently (more than 3 days) below 100 °F or greater than 160 °F.
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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APPENDIX E TEMPERATURE MONITORING LOG SHEET

COMPOSTING TEMPERATURE LOG

 County: Site Number:

Street address, city, state:

 Farm Name:

 House/Windrow Number: Date Started: Date Finished: Date Turned:

Use the cells below to record the temperatures each day at 18 inches and at 36 inches.

Date Depth Flag #1 Flag #2 Flag #3 Flag #4 Flag #5 Flag #6 Flag #7 Flag #8 Flag #9 Flag#10 Avg

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”

18”

36”
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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APPENDIX F

IN-HOUSE COMPOSTING AMMONIA SAFETY

Background 

Ammonia is produced naturally from decomposition of organic matter, including plants, 

animals and animal wastes and can become concentrated in enclosed structures. This 

guidance is for ammonia produced from these natural sources, NOT from compressed 

gas cylinders or other sources which may produce very high air concentrations. 

Signs of Exposure to Ammonia 

Strong odor provides adequate early warning of its presence, but prolonged exposure 

can be hard to detect due to olfactory fatigue and adaptation. High concentrations can 

cause airway destruction resulting in respiratory distress or failure. Signs of exposure 

include the following:

 burning of the nose, throat and respiratory tract;

 coughing; and

 skin and eye irritation.

How to Reduce Ammonia Exposure 

 Increase ventilation when possible.

 Reduce the amount of time spent in areas where levels of ammonia are high.

 Wear proper PPE (personal protective equipment)

‒ gloves,

‒ half face with goggles or a full face respirator with at least a particulate/ammonia 

cartridge (green) or a multigas cartridge, and

‒ cloth coveralls or disposable coveralls (Tyvek).

 If possible, measure levels of ammonia in work area with an air gas meter before 

entering, or know recommended exposure times based on the ammonia levels in 

work area.

Exposure Guidelines (NIOSH)

Long term exposure (8 hours) 25 ppm

Short term exposure (15 minutes) 35 ppm

Short term exposure (5 minutes) 50 ppm

If exposed: 

 Seek fresh air.

 Flush irritated skin or eyes with water.

 If needed, seek immediate medical attention.

 Contact your supervisor or the Safety Officer if irritation of skin, nose, throat, or 

respiratory tract is persistent.
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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APPENDIX G COMPOST APPROVAL CHECKLISTS 

INITIAL COMPOST WINDROW CONSTRUCTION CHECKLIST

Farm Name: County: 

Farm Address:

Farm Contact: Contact Phone:

Date Windrows 

Started:

Date Windrows 

Completed:

Windrow #: Premises 

County & #:

Who constructed 

windrow? Contact Info:

Yes No N/A Comments/Description

WINDROW DESIGN

1 Height between 6 and 8 feet.

2 Width between 10 and 15 feet

3 Base between 8 and 12 inches

3 Dome shaped without significant irregularities 

4 No soft tissue visible on the surface of the windrow

5 A minimum of 6 inches of carbon cover material

6 Photos taken

7 Sketch of flag locations with dimensions attached

Recommendations:

I have observed the windrows at this site and in my professional judgment they have been 

constructed consistent with the criteria outlined in the Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian 

Influenza Infected Flocks.

I have observed the windrows at this site and in my professional judgment they have NOT 

been constructed consistent with the criteria outlined in the Mortality Composting Protocol for 

Avian Influenza Infected Flocks. The following corrective actions are recommended:

Signature of Composting SME: ________________________________ Date: ______________

Print name of Composting SME: __________________________________________________

The corrective actions recommended above were completed on: ________________________
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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Signature of Composting SME: ________________________________ Date: ______________

PHASE 1 WINDROW APPROVAL CHECKLIST

Applicability: This checklist is to be used 14 days after windrow construction to verify that they

have been constructed in accordance with the protocol and have reached temperatures necessary 

for virus inactivation. 

Farm Name: County: 

Farm Address:

Farm Contact: Contact Phone:

Date Windrows 

Started:

Date Windrows 

Completed:

Windrow #: Premises 

County & #:

Who constructed 

windrow? Contact Info:

Yes No N/A Comments/Description

PHASE 1 WINDROW EVALUATION—Days 1–14

1 Height between 4 and 8 feet

2 Width between 10 and 15 feet

3 Dome shaped without significant irregularities 

4 No soft tissue visible on the surface of the windrow

5 A minimum of 6 inches of carbon cover material

6 Moisture adequate

7 Leachate present

8 Excessive flies

9 Vector activity observed

10 Odor observed: VOA, putrid

11 Temperature measured at 18 inches and 36 inches

12 Temperatures reached 131 °F for 3 consecutive days

13 Photos taken

Phase 1 Recommendations of State Animal Health, APHIS or IMT Official: 

I have observed the windrows at this site and in my professional judgment they have been 

constructed consistent with the criteria outlined in the Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian 

Influenza Infected Flocks. Additionally, windrow temperatures have reached the average 

temperature of 131 °F for a minimum of 72 hours. The 14-day initial composting cycle is 

complete.
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

23

I have observed the windrows at this site and in my professional judgment they have NOT

been constructed consistent with the criteria outlined in the Mortality Composting Protocol for 

Avian Influenza Infected Flocks. The windrows should be evaluated by a composting Subject 

Matter Expert to recommend corrective actions if necessary. 

Windrow temperatures have NOT reached the average temperature of 131 °F for a 

minimum of 72 hours. The windrows should be evaluated by a composting Subject Matter 

Expert to recommend corrective actions if necessary.

Signature of State Animal Health

Official, APHIS Official or IMT Official: __________________________ Date: _____________

Print name of signing official: ____________________________________________________

Phase 1 Recommendations of Subject Matter Expert: 

I have observed the windrows at this site and based on their construction and my review of 

the temperature logs, the windrows have performed in a manner demonstrated to inactive the 

avian influenza virus. The 14-day initial composting cycle is complete.

I have observed the windrows at this site and based on their construction and my review of 

the temperature logs, the windrows have NOT performed in a manner demonstrated to inactive 

the avian influenza virus. The following corrective actions are recommended:

Date of windrow evaluation: _____________________________________________________

Signature of Composting SME: ________________________________ Date: ______________

Print name of Composting SME: __________________________________________________

The corrective actions recommended above were completed on: ________________________

Phase 1 was complete on: ______________________________________________________

Signature of Composting SME: ________________________________ Date: _____________
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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PHASE 2 WINDROW APPROVAL CHECKLIST

Applicability: This checklist is to be used 14 days after Phase 1 was completed to verify that the

compost windrows may be moved without restriction on the premises or may leave the premises 

with appropriate permits. 

Farm Name: County: 

Farm Address:

Farm Contact: Contact Phone:

Date Windrows 

Started:

Date Windrows 

Completed:

Windrow #: Premises 

County & #:

Who constructed 

windrow? Contact Info:

Yes No N/A Comments/Description

PHASE 2 WINDROW EVALUATION—Days 14–28

1 Height between 4 and 8 feet

2 Width between 10 and 15 feet

3 Dome shaped without significant irregularities 

4 No soft tissue visible on the surface of the windrow

5 A minimum of 6 inches of carbon cover material

6 Moisture adequate

7 Leachate present

8 Excessive flies

9 Vector activity observed

10 Odor observed: VOA, putrid

11 Temperature measured at 18 inches and 36 inches

12 Temperatures reached 131 °F for 3 consecutive days

13 Photos taken

Phase 2 Recommendations of State Animal Health, APHIS or IMT Official: 

I have observed the windrows at this site and in my professional judgment they have been 

constructed consistent with the criteria outlined in the Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian 

Influenza Infected Flocks. Additionally, windrow temperatures have reached the average 

temperature of 131 °F for a minimum of 72 hours during the second composting phase. The 

windrows may be moved without restriction on the premises or may leave the premises with 

appropriate permits.
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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I have observed the windrows at this site and in my professional judgment they have NOT

been constructed consistent with the criteria outlined in the Mortality Composting Protocol for 

Avian Influenza Infected Flocks. The windrows should be evaluated by a composting Subject 

Matter Expert to recommend corrective actions if necessary. 

Windrow temperatures have NOT reached the average temperature of 131 °F for a 

minimum of 72 hours during the second composting phase. The windrows should be evaluated 

by a composting Subject Matter Expert to recommend corrective actions if necessary.

Signature of State Animal Health

Official, APHIS Official or IMT Official: _______________________ Date: _________________

Print name of signing official: ____________________________________________________

Phase 2 Recommendations of Subject Matter Expert: 

I have observed the windrows at this site and based on their construction and my review of 

the temperature logs, the windrows have performed in a manner demonstrated to inactive the 

avian influenza virus. The windrows may be moved without restriction on the premises or may 

leave the premises with appropriate permits.

I have observed the windrows at this site and based on their construction and my review of 

the temperature logs, the windrows have NOT performed in a manner demonstrated to inactive 

the avian influenza virus. The following corrective actions are recommended:

Date of windrow evaluation: _____________________________________________________

Signature of Composting SME: ________________________________ Date: ______________

Print name of Composting SME: __________________________________________________

The corrective actions recommended above were completed on: ________________________

Phase 2 was complete on: ______________________________________________________

Signature of Composting SME: ________________________________ Date: _____________
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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APPENDIX H

WINDROW TURNING EQUIPMENT AND METHODS

Windrow turning should occur at 14 days after the windrow construction is completed.

There are several methods for turning windrows, both for in-house and outside 

windrows. The windrows constructed in-house may be turned inside the house or 

moved outside and reformed.

Methods for Turning Windrows In-House

1. Use skid loaders or telehandlers with high-capacity buckets to turn windrows.

Starting at the end of the windrow, scoop up all compost, turn machine around and 

drop the mixture forming a new windrow. It needs to be dumped in a manner that 

provides maximum aeration. 

2. Use small dozer to roll over windrows.

a. Requires a skilled operator to avoid damaging equipment and building.

b. Requires building the original windrow off center to allow space to turn the pile.

c. Only feasible in larger houses.

Methods for Turning Windrows Outside

1. Use large articulated loader(s).

a. Skid loaders have too small a bucket for this method (too slow and they don’t mix 

the material as well).

2. Use dozer to roll over windrow.

a. Does not mix material as well as other methods.

3. Use tractor attached mechanical compost turner.

a. Thoroughly mixes and shreds material but may be slower than using large 

loaders or straddle type windrow turners.

Turning in-house with a skid loader (photo by Josh Payne)
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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b. Requires 2 passes for larger windrows.

4. Straddle-type windrow turner (tractor pulled).

a. Windrows should be constructed far enough apart to allow the tractor and turner 

to operate (width of tractor approximately 10 to 12 feet).

b. Mixes material well.

c. Need a large unit to turn 12–15 foot windrows (at least 14 foot wide)—the “toe” of 

the windrows can be removed by a loader to reduce the width of larger windrows.

Brown Bear compost turner (photo by Gary Flory) Brown Bear compost turner (photo by Bob Peer)

Tractor-pulled compost turner 

(photo by Mark King)

Self-propelled compost turner 

(photo by Gary Flory)
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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APPENDIX I

CHARACTERISTICS OF RAW MATERIAL1

Material Type of 

value

% N 

(dry 

weight)

C:N ratio 

(weight 

to weight)

Moisture 

content % 

(wet 

weight)

Bulk 

density 

(pounds per 

cubic yard)

Crop residues and fruit/vegetable-processing waste

Apple filter cake Typical 1.2 13 60 1,197

Apple pomace Typical 1.1 48 88 1,559

Apple-processing sludge Typical 2.8 7 59 1,411

Cocoa shells Typical 2.3 22 8 798

Coffee grounds Typical — 20 — —

Corn cobs Range 0.4–0.8 56–123 9–18 —

Average 0.6 98 15 557

Corn stalks Typical 0.6–0.8 60–73a 12 32

Cottonseed meal Typical 7.7 7 — —

Cranberry filter cake Typical 2.8 31 50 1,021

(with rice hulls) Typical 1.2 42 71 1,298

Cranberry plant (stems, 

leaves)

Typical 0.9 61 61 —

Cull potatoes Typical — 18 78 1,540

Fruit wastes Range 0.9–2.6 20–49 62–88 —

Average 1.4 40 80 —

Olive husks Typical 1.2–1.5 30–35 8–10 —

Potato-processing sludge Typical — 28 75 1,570

Potato tops Typical 1.5 25 — —

Rice hulls Range 0–0.4 113–1120 7–12 185–219

Average 0.3 121 14 202

Soybean meal Typical 7.2–7.6 4–6 — —

Tomato-processing waste Typical 4.5 11a 62 —

Vegetable produce Typical 2.7 19 87 1,585

Vegetable wastes Typical 2.5–4 11–13 — —

Fish and meat processing

Blood wastes 

(slaughterhouse waste 

and dried blood)

Typical 13–14 3–3.5 10–78 —

Crab and lobster wastes Range 4.6–8.2 4.0–5.4 35–61 —

Average 6.1 4.9 47 240

Fish-breading crumbs Typical 2.0 28 10 —

Fish-processing sludge Typical 6.8 5.2 94 —

 

1 Reprinted with permission from the Cornell Waste Management Institute.
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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Material Type of 

value

% N 

(dry 

weight)

C:N ratio 

(weight 

to weight)

Moisture 

content % 

(wet 

weight)

Bulk 

density 

(pounds per 

cubic yard)

Fish wastes (gurry, racks, 

and so on)

Range 6.5–14.2 2.6–5.0 50–81 —

Average 10.6 3.6 76 —

Mixed slaughterhouse 

waste

Typical 7–10 2–4 — —

Mussel wastes Typical 3.6 2.2 63 —

Poultry carcasses Typical 2.4b 5 65 —

Paunch manure Typical 1.8 20–30 80–85 1,460

Shrimp wastes Typical 9.5 3.4 78 —

Manures

Broiler litter Range 1.6–3.9 12–15a 22–46 756–1,026

Average 2.7 14 a 37 864

Cattle Range 1.5–4.2 11–30 67–87 1,323–1,674

Average 2.4 19 81 1,458

Dairy tie stall Typical 2.7 18 79 —

Dairy free stall Typical 3.7 13 83 —

Horse-general Range 1.4–2.3 22–50 59–79 1,215–1,620

Average 1.6 30 72 1,379

Horse-race track Range 0.8–1.7 29–56 52–67 —

Average 1.2 41 63 —

Laying hens Range 4–10 3–10 62–75 1,377–1,620

Average 8.0 6 69 1,479

Sheep Range 1.3–3.9 13–20 60–75 —

Average 2.7 16 69 —

Swine Range 1.9–4.3 9–19 65–91 —

Average 3.1 14 80 —

Turkey litter Average 2.6 16 a 26 783

Municipal wastes

Garbage (food waste) Typical 1.9–2.9 14–16 69 —

Night soil Typical 5.5–6.5 6–10 — —
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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Material Type of 

value

% N 

(dry 

weight)

C:N ratio 

(weight 

to weight)

Moisture 

content % 

(wet 

weight)

Bulk 

density 

(pounds per 

cubic yard)

Paper from domestic 

refuse

Typical 0.2–0.25 127–178 18–20 —

Pharmaceutical wastes Typical 2.6 19 — —

Refuse (mixed food, 

paper,

Typical 0.6–1.3 34–80 — —

and so on)

Sewage sludge Range 2–6.9 5–16 72–84 1,075–1,750

Activated sludge Typical 5.6 6 — —

Digested sludge Typical 1.9 16 — —

Straw, hay, silage

Corn silage Typical 1.2–1.4 38–43a 65–68 —

Hay-general Range 0.7–3.6 15–32 8–10 —

Average 2.10 — — —

Hay-legume Range 1.8–3.6 15–19 — —

Average 2.5 16 — —

Hay-non-legume Range 0.7–2.5 — — —

Average 1.3 32 — —

Straw-general Range 0.3–1.1 48–150 4–27 58–378

Average 0.7 80 12 227

Straw-oat Range 0.6–1.1 48–98 — —

Average 0.9 60 — —

Straw-wheat Range 0.3–0.5 100–150 — —

Average 0.4 127 — —

Wood and paper

Bark-hardwoods Range 0.10–0.41 116–436 — —

Average 0.241 223 — —

Bark-softwoods Range 0.04–0.39 131–1,285 — —

Average 0.14 496 — —

Corrugated cardboard Typical 0.10 563 8 259

Lumbermill waste Typical 0.13 170 — —

Newsprint Typical 0.06–0.14 398–852 3–8 195–242
Mortality Composting Protocol for Avian Influenza Infected Flocks

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Material Type of 

value

% N 

(dry 

weight)

C:N ratio 

(weight 

to weight)

Moisture 

content % 

(wet 

weight)

Bulk 

density 

(pounds per 

cubic yard)

Paper fiber sludge Typical — 250 66 1140

Paper mill sludge Typical 0.56 54 81 —

Paper pulp Typical 0.59 90 82 1403

Sawdust Range 0.06–0.8 200–750 19–65 350–450

Average 0.24 442 39 410

Telephone books Typical 0.7 772 6 250

Wood chips Typical — — — 445–620

Wood-hardwoods Range 0.06–0.11 451–819 — —

(chips, shavings, and so 

on)

Average 0.09 560 — —

Wood-softwoods Range 0.04–0.23 212–1,313 — —

(chips, shavings, and so 

on)

Average 0.09 641 — —

Yard wastes and other vegetation

Grass clippings Range 2.0–6.0 9–25 — —

Average 3.4 17 82 —

Loose Typical — — — 300–400

Compacted Typical — — — 500–800

Leaves Range 0.5–1.3 40–80 — —

Average 0.9 54 38 —

Loose and dry Typical — — — 100–300

Compacted and moist Typical — — — 400–500

Seaweed Range 1.2–3.0 5–27 — —

Average 1.9 17 53 —

Shrub trimmings Typical 1.0 53 15 429

Tree trimmings Typical 3.1 16 70 1,296

Water hyacinth-fresh Typical — 20–30 93 405

a Estimated from ash or volatile solids data. b Mostly organic nitrogen.
Landfills and Highly Pathogenic 

Avian Influenza (HPAI) Response

May 2016

USDA APHIS Veterinary Services
“Worst agricultural disaster in decades”

Why does it matter?

• Financial impact of HPAI

• US, Regional, State economies

• $960+ million spent on response since December 2014

• International trade: several countries banned poultry from 

the United States

• Billions in lost exports

• Direct/indirect impacts-jobs, affiliated industries, emotional 

impact

• Safe food supply (perception)

• Safe to eat meat, eggs

• Potential public health issues

• NOT currently infectious to humans, virus can change
DEFINITIONS

• USDA APHIS Veterinary Services

• US Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection 

Service

• Veterinary Services oversees pre-harvest animal production

• FAD: foreign animal disease

• HPAI: highly pathogenic avian influenza

• Also referred to as “high path AI” 

• Differentiated from low pathogenic AI based on morbidity and 

mortality, or how quickly birds get sick and/or die from the disease 

• Current high path strain in U.S. is mainly H5

• FMD: foot and mouth disease

• PPE: personal protective equipment

• Zoonotic Disease: a disease that can be spread from animals to humans

• Depopulation: also known as “culling” or “stamping out” a large number 

of animals to quickly eliminate the disease
HOW ARE DISEASE OUTBREAKS HANDLED?

• Is it a disease of high consequence? 

• e.g., High Path Avian Influenza, Foot and Mouth Disease, African 

Swine Fever, Rift Valley Fever, Glanders

• What is the scope of the outbreak?

• County, State, Regional, National

• Can that jurisdiction respond without national assistance (funding, 

equipment, people)?

• Is it a zoonotic disease?

• Will humans become infected?

• Who would be the lead agency?

• Animal Diseases: State Departments of Agriculture, USDA APHIS 

Veterinary Services

• Human Diseases: Center for Disease Control and Prevention (U.S. 

Department of Heath and Human Services), State Public Health 

Departments
WHAT ARE THE GOALS IN A FAD OUTBREAK?

In the event of an FAD outbreak, the three key response goals are:

1) Detect, control, and contain the outbreak as quickly as possible. 

2) Eradicate the FAD using strategies that stabilize animal 

agriculture, the food supply, the economy, and protect public 

health and the environment.

3) Provide science- and risk-based approaches and systems to 

facilitate continuity of business for non-infected animals and 

non-contaminated animal products.

Achieving these three goals will allow individual livestock facilities, 

States, Tribes, regions, and industries to resume normal production 

as quickly as possible. They will also allow the United States to 

regain FAD-free status
USDA Poultry Production Data

May 2015

The most recent Census of Agriculture reported 233,770 poultry farms in the 

United States in 2012.

In 2014, the U.S. poultry industry produced:

• 8.54 billion broilers,

• 99.8 billion eggs, and

• 238 million turkeys.

The combined value of production from broilers, eggs, turkeys, and 

the value of sales from chickens in 2014 was $48.3 billion, up 9 

percent from $44.4 billion in 2013. 
Today’s Commercial Industry

• 8.5 billion meat chickens

• 150 million meat turkeys

• 250 million table egg layers

• 88 million meat type chicken breeders

• 4.5 million egg type chicken breeders

• 8 million breeder turkeys

• 253 meat type chicken hatcheries

• 35 turkey hatcheries






Lesser known poultry industries: game birds, 

backyard birds, and hobby birds of any species
How did we get here? 

2014-2015 and 2016 HPAI Outbreaks


232 

Detections Reported

6/17/2015

Last Reported Detection (IA)

12/19/2014

First Detection Reported

49.6 Million 

Number of all birds affected
2014-2015 HPAI Outbreak in the 

United States 

• First case detected in Oregon, December 2014

• Total number of HPAI positive premises: 232

• 211 commercial (MN-109, IA-72, WI-9, SD-10, NE-5, CA2, MO-2, ND-2, AR-1)

• 21 backyard 

• Commercial poultry depopulated

• Turkeys: approx. 7.5 million

• Chickens, laying hens and pullets: approx. 42.1 million
Impact

• Approximately 10% of the poultry meat and egg 

supply was destroyed in 6 months in 2015.

• Food prices increased.

• Virus prefers cold, damp weather, so it “slowed 

down” during the hot summer months (last 

confirmed positive in Iowa mid-June, 2015 ).

• Birds that commingle up north will fly south for the 

winter, potentially exposing wild, commercial, and 

backyard birds to the virus.
Trade Implications from the

2014-2015 HPAI Outbreak

• Trade impact

• 18 countries imposed bans on ALL U.S. poultry and products

• 38 countries imposed partial or regional bans

Trade bans on U.S. exports of broiler and turkey meat related to HPAI as of June 

16, 2015 (data from USDA ERS)
2016 HPAI Outbreak

• First case detected January 16, 2016 in Dubois County, 

Indiana:

• One case of HPAI in commercial turkeys

• Nine cases of LPAI in commercial turkeys

• Strain similar to that seen in wild birds in North America

• 415,000 birds euthanized

• Economic cost: over $20 million.
Does HPAI pose a health threat to humans?

• To date, there have been no human cases related to this H5 

strain of HPAI (nearly 4300 responders nationwide).

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers 

the risk to people from these H5/H7 infections to be low. No 

humans cases of these H5/H7 viruses have been detected in the 

United States, Canada, or internationally. 

• Historically, human infections with other avian influenza viruses 

have occurred after close and prolonged contact with infected 

birds or the excretions/secretions of infected birds (e.g., 

droppings, oral fluids), as in SE Asia.
What happens once a farm is infected?
Roles of Landfills

With billions of birds, seeking landfills that could accept:

• Bird carcasses: adults and pullets/poults (young birds)

• Adults range from 6-8 lbs (layers & broilers) up to 80 (for tom 

turkeys)

• Waste products, such as manure and litter (typically 

shavings or pellets), egg flats, pallets

• Hatchery waste 

• Leftover feed

• Eggs and egg product that cannot enter the food supply

• PPE (personal protective equipment such as Tyvek 

coveralls, gloves, etc.)

• Cleaning and disinfection materials/supplies

• Or any combination of the above.
Disposal needs beyond bird carcasses:
Management considerations at landfill:

Leachate Management

• Storage/recirculation/land 

application?

• County/state specific

• USDA white paper on risk of 

leachate expected summer 2016

Operations/Logistics

• Consider working hours, scale 

operations, tracking AI waste, 

tipping fees, billing, transportation 

to and from

• Scheduling delivery of waste

• Use of contractors at landfills

• Clean/disinfection/gray water 

management

Public Relations/Outreach

• MSW vs. private landfill

• Accepting waste can help protect 

animal and human health

• Work with State/Fed Depts of 

Agriculture PIO

Regulations/Permitting

• County/state regulations

• Modification of permits needed?

• Will permitting be handled 

differently in emergency/disease 

outbreak?
Use of contractors at landfills:

• USDA contractor responsible for 

logistics and biosecurity, but 

rely on landfill operators to 

assist with identifying local 

resources. 

• Heavy equipment rentals, 

power sprayer rentals, frac

tanks, tents, gravel for roads 

and command area, wooden 

mats, odor control mister, 

portable toilets, food for 

workers, etc.

• Landfill needs a system for 

weighing and tracking AI wastes 

simultaneously with regular 

MSW receipts.

• Landfill bills USDA, contractor, 

or producer (depending on who 

hired the landfill).
Planning/Operations

• Use landfill staff or contractors for excavation and disposal 

activities (includes cleaning/disinfection of vehicles)?

• Amount of time necessary to excavate trenches? 

• Separate areas for MSW and AI waste staging and disposal.

• Dedicated trucks and decontamination areas for the hot, warm, 

and cool zones (typically supplied by contractor).

• Ability of farms to stage wastes on-site to control timing of 

delivery to landfills.

• Consider both space and container constraints.

• How many loads of wastes can the landfill expect to receive based 

on the size of farm and the amount of time it takes to depopulate 

and containerize wastes?

• How will landfill control odor, flies, scavenger birds/wildlife?
On Site Operations

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Scale house

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Roll-off Staging Area/Access Road

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Command Area

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Command Area: PPE Supplies

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Command Area: USDA and Contractor Office

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Full Roll-off Staging Area

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan

Truck tire decontamination in foreground.
Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan

Excavated disposal trench
Excavated disposal trench

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Full load approaching disposal trench.

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Tailgate being unlatched; hot zone delineated by yellow 

caution tape.

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Preparing to dispose of load. Excavator and delivery truck 

personnel communicate using a series of honks. 

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Disposal of waste in trench.

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Breaching of waste bag: State- or locality-specific 

regulations.

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Constructed road at landfill. Contractors cleaning and 

disinfecting roll-offs after tipping.
Truck tire decontamination adjacent to a hot zone.

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Decontamination station

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Decontamination station: roll-offs are steam cleaned after 

disposal using a power-sprayer with bleach and surfactant. 

Decontamination liquids are collected and pumped into a frac

tank for off-site disposal. 

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Decontamination of tarp.

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Removing liner at decontamination station. Disposed of in 

landfill with other contaminated PPE.

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Wooden crane mats.

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Wooden crane mats.

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Odor control product and mister unit.

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Final truck tire decontamination station at facility exit.

Courtesy Rebecca Joniskan
Landfill Challenges in 2015 IA Outbreak

• Concerns about risk of infected leachate, 

protection of operators, public 

opposition, and potential lawsuits.

• APHIS, state DNR and landfill companies 

developed waste acceptance criteria to 

address operational issues.

• APHIS, CDC and NIOSH developed safety 

guidelines for operators.

• APHIS developed Frequently Asked 

Questions for public.

• Landfill companies requested federal 

indemnification but it was prohibited by 

law.
Lessons learned in Iowa and Minnesota:

• Educate people before a disease outbreak.

• Because of the potential volume of birds and waste materials, 

large landfills are ideal for birds and smaller ones could take 

egg or hatchery waste, PPE, etc.

• States worked to modify transportation weight restrictions in 

case of an outbreak, allowing larger (but still safe) loads to be 

hauled. States rerouted trucks to avoid passing poultry farms.

• Keep documentation for HPAI operations separate.

• Consider the weather, road conditions, and any extra 

equipment needed.

• Odor and fly control.

• Work with USDA APHIS LPA or IMT’s Public Information 

Officer to craft appropriate messaging for stakeholders and 

public.
Support for Landfills

• For any who may be interested in accepting HPAI waste, state, 

federal and industry partners would work closely to ensure:

• Worker safety, including in person training and supplying with 

any PPE needs. Most important!

• Work to establish SOPs for accepting waste that will be 

beneficial to your operation.

• Supply contractors if needed to bring in roll-offs and trucks, 

assist in tipping, cleaning and disinfection, directing traffic, and 

managing a staging area.

• Landfill may be hired by a state or federal government, clean 

up contractor, or by a poultry grower/company.

• We will work with you to manage public perception, prepare 

for town hall meetings if needed- landfills could provide a 

valuable public service by assisting in disposal during an 

outbreak.
Interested?

• USDA can supply job aids that have already been developed 

and can work one on one with landfills to facilitate their 

involvement

• To start the process of becoming a federal contractor:

• http://www.dnb.com/get-a-duns-number.html

• www.sam.gov

This process can take several weeks, so please plan ahead.
Other Resources on HPAI and Landfills

Information about HPAI and landfills:

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/emergen

cy-management/ct_fadprep

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/emergency_manageme

nt/downloads/hpai/landfilldisposalpolicy.pdf

CDC guidelines for landfill workers:

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/emergency_management/downlo

ads/hpai/cdc_int_guid_landfill_op_disp_poulcarc_during_outbreaks.pdf

Reach out to your State departments of agriculture, USDA, or 

poultry producers to let them know of your interest.
www.nationalrenderers.org	 NRA Membership Directory  	 Render April 2017 23

Product code key:

2017 NRA Officers

BFP Blender - Fat and Proteins

BLF Blender of Fat

BLP Blender of Protein

BM Blood Meal

BR Broker

CH Chemicals

CM Chicken Meal

CN Consultant

CWG Choice White Grease

DL Dealer

DT Dry Rendered Tankage

EQ Equipment

ET Edible Tallow

EX Exporter

FA Fatty Acids

FGAF Feed Grade Animal Fat

FM Feather Meal

HI Hide

IN Insurance

LG Lard/Grease

LT Laboratory/Testing

MB Meat and Bone Meal

MM Meat Meal

PB Poultry By-product Meal

PF Poultry Fat

PM Poultry Meal

RF Refined Fats

SF Stabilized Animal Fats

SS Samplers and Surveyors

ST Storage Terminals

TG Tallow and Grease

YG Yellow Grease

OT Other

Chairman:

Tim Guzek

Sanimax 

Green Bay, WI

920-494-5233

First Vice Chairman:

Ridley Bestwick

West Coast Reduction 

Vancouver, BC, Canada

604-255-9301

Second Vice Chairman:

Doyle Leefers

National Beef Packing 

Company 

Kansas City, MO

800-449-2333

2017 NRA Regional Officers

2017 Active Members

Producers of animal fats and proteins

EASTERN REGION

President:

Bill Schmieder

Baker Commodities Inc.

585-482-1880

CENTRAL REGION

President:

Ed Frakes

Darling International

920-361-2092

Vice President:

Mike Karman

Sanimax

920-884-3925

Secretary/Treasurer:

Jason Hartman

Mendota Agri-Products Inc.

815-539-5633

WESTERN REGION

President:

Doug Smith

Baker Commodities Inc.

323-268-2801

Vice President:

Ken Kage

Darling Ingredients Inc.

303-295-7551

American Proteins Inc. -

Headquarters

4705 Leland Drive

Cumming, GA 30041 

www.americanproteins.com

Contact: Stan Gudenkauf

Phone: 770-886-2250

Fax: 770-886-2296

E-mail: stan.gudenkauf@ 

amprot.com

Region: Eastern

American Proteins Inc. -

Cuthbert Division

P.O. Box 528

Cuthbert, GA 31740 

Contact: Brandon Kyzar

Phone: 229-732-2114

Fax: 229-732-3896

E-mail: brandon.kyzar@

amprot.com

Products: CM,PB,PF,PM,SF

Region: Eastern

American Proteins Inc. -

Cumming Division

4990 Leland Drive

Cumming, GA 30041 

Contact: Jonathan Green

Phone: 770-887-6148

Fax: 770-889-2820

E-mail: jonathan.green@

amprot.com

Products: SF,PB,FM

Region: Eastern

American Proteins Inc. -

Hanceville Division

P.O. Box 429

Hanceville, AL 35077 

Contact: Jason Spann

Phone: 256-352-9821

Fax: 256-352-4223

E-mail: jason.spann@

amprot.com

Products: SF,PB,FM

Region: Eastern

American Proteins Inc. -

Ampro Division

2305 O’Kelly Drive

Gainsville, GA 30501

Contact: Scott Duchette or 

Bryan Kattelmann

Phone: 770-535-6646

Fax: 770-535-7207

E-mail: e.scottduchette@

amproproducts.com, 

bryan.kattelmann@

amproproducts.com

Products: Animal protein blends

Region: Eastern

American Proteins Inc. -

APF&O Division

Rt 1 Box 150, Hwy 82 East

Cuthbert, GA 39840

Contact: Brian White

Phone: 770-886-2250

Fax: 770-886-2292

E-mail: brian.white@

amprot.com

Products: Fat blends

Region: Eastern

Membership Directory

National Renderers Association
24 April 2017 Render NRA Membership Directory www.nationalrenderers.org

APC Inc.

The Lauridsen Group, Inc.

2425 SE Oak Tree Court

Ankeny, IA 50021 

www.functionalproteins.com

Contact: Jerry Frankl

Phone: 515-289-7600

Fax: 515-289-4360

E-mail: jerry.frankl@

functionalproteins.com

Products: Spray-dried blood 

and plasma products

Region: Central

APC Inc. - Arion

2248 Lincoln Way

Arion, IA 51520 

Contact: Tom Kuchemann

Phone: 712-263-6690

Fax: 712-263-6772

E-mail: thomas.kuchemann@

functionalproteins.com

Products: Spray-dried blood 

and plasma products

Region: Central

APC Inc. - Boone

2621 Mamie Eisenhower Ave.

Boone, IA 50036

Contact: Jeff Ostendorf

Phone: 515-432-8021

Fax: 515-432-8027

E-mail: jeff.ostendorf@

functionalproteins.com

Products: Spray-dried blood 

and plasma products

Region: Central

APC Inc. - Dubuque

1300 Inland Lane

P.O. Box 1398

Dubuque, IA 52003

Contact: Jim Oberman

Phone: 563-588-3333

Fax: 563-588-2691

E-mail: james.oberman@

functionalproteins.com

Products: Spray-dried blood 

and plasma products

Region: Central

APC Inc. - Selma

1451 West Noble Street

Selma, NC 27576 

Contact: Tony Lester

Phone: 919-965-2051

Fax: 919-965-2130

E-mail: tony.lester@

functionalproteins.com

Products: Spray-dried blood 

and plasma products

Region: Central

APC Inc. - Sublette

1197 US Highway 83

Sublette, KS 67877

Contact: Mark McGaughey

Phone: 620-675-8691

Fax: 620-675-2369

E-mail: mark.mcgaughey@

functionalproteins.com

Products: Spray-dried blood 

and plasma products

Region: Central

Baker Commodities Inc. -

Headquarters

4020 Bandini Boulevard

Vernon, CA 90058-4274

Contact: James M. Andreoli

Phone: 323-268-2801

Fax: 323-264-9862

E-mail: jandreoli@

bakercommodities.com

Products: EX,RF,SF,TG,HI,MM, 

MB,FGAF,ST

Region: Western

Baker Commodities Inc. -

Billerica

P.O. Box 132

No. Billerica, MA 01862 

Contact: Walter Gurschick

Phone: 978-454-8811 

Fax: 978-454-0448

E-mail: wgurschick@

bakercommodities.com

Products: EX,SF,TG,FGAF,MM,MB,

ST

Region: Eastern

Baker Commodities Inc.

Island Commodities

91-269 Olai Street

Kapolei, HI 96707 

Contact: John Tsukada

Phone: 808-682-5844

Fax: 808-682-4389

E-mail: jtsukada@

bakercommodities.com

Products: TG,MB

Region: Western

Baker Commodities Inc. -

Kerman

P.O. Box 416

Kerman, CA 93630-0487 

Contact: Manuel Ponte

Phone: 559-846-9393

Fax: 559-846-7671

E-mail: mponte@

bakercommodities.com

Products: EX,FGAF,HI,MB,SF,TG

Region: Western

Baker Commodities Inc. -

Los Angeles

4020 Bandini Boulevard

Vernon, CA 90058-4274 

Contact: Shelton Wang

Phone: 323-268-2801

Fax: 323-268-5166

E-mail: swang@

bakercommodities.com

Products: EX,RF,SF,TG,HI,MM, 

MB,FGAF,ST

Region: Western

Baker Commodities Inc. -

Phoenix

P.O. Box 6518

Phoenix, AZ 85005 

Contact: Beverly Norris

Phone: 602-254-5971 or 

602-275-3402

Fax: 602-272-1846

E-mail: bnorris@

bakercommodities.com

Products: TG,MM,MB,SF,FGAF

Region: Western

Baker Commodities Inc. -

Rochester

2268 Browncroft Boulevard

Rochester, NY 14625-1050

Contact: Bill Schmieder

Phone: 585-482-1880

Fax: 585-654-7070

E-mail: bschmieder@

bakercommodities.com

Products: SF,TG,HI,MB,FGAF, 

BLP

Region: Eastern

Baker Commodities Inc. -

Seattle

P.O. Box 58368

Seattle, WA 98138-1368

Contact: Mike Bulleri

Phone: 206-243-7387

Fax: 206-243-3412

E-mail: mbulleri@

bakercommodities.com

Products: EX,TG,MB,FGAF,HI, 

OT,Fish meal

Region: Western

Baker Commodities Inc. -

Spokane

P.O. Box 11157

Spokane, WA 99211-1157

Contact: John McCartney

Phone: 509-535-5435

Fax: 509-536-3817

E-mail: jmccartney@

bakercommodities.com

Products: SF,TG,HI,MB

Region: Western

BHT ReSources

P.O. Box 1596

700 Maple Street, Suite A

Birmingham, AL 35210 

www.bhtonline.com

Contact: T. Owen Vickers

Phone: 205-252-1197

Fax: 205-251-1522

E-mail: tovickers@aol.com

Products: TG,SF,FGAF,HI,MB,BFP

Region: Eastern

Cargill Meat Solutions 

Inc. - Headquarters

Excel Corporation

P.O. Box 2519

Wichita, KS 67201 

www.excelmeats.com

Contact: Dan Schaefer

Phone: 316-291-3409

E-mail: daniel_schaefer@

cargill.com

Products: EX,BM,DT,FGAF,HI

MB,MM,SF,TG

Region: Central

Cargill Meat Solutions - 

Dodge City

P.O. Box 1060

Dodge City, KS 67801

Contact: Daryl Kuker

Phone: 620-227-0550

Fax: 316-227-5839

Products: BM,DT,FGAF,HI,MB, 

MM,SF,TG

Region: Central

Cargill Meat Solutions - 

Fort Morgan

P.O. Box 4100

Fort Morgan, CO 80701 

Contact: Mario Rivera

Phone: 303-867-1540

Fax: 303-867-1564

E-mail: mario_rivera@

cargill.com

Products: BM,DT,FGAF,HI,MB, 

MM,SF,TG

Region: Central

Cargill Meat Solutions -

Friona

P.O. Box 579

Friona, TX 79035 

Contact: David Wathen

Phone: 806-295-8380

Fax: 806-295-8214

Products: BM,DT,FGAF,HI,MB, 

MM,SF,TG

Region: Central

Cargill Meat Solutions -

Schuyler

P.O. Box 544

Schuyler, NE 68661 

Contact: Dave Limbach

Phone: 402-352-5411

Fax: 402-352-8334

Products: BM,DT,FGAF,HI,MB, 

MM,SF,TG

Region: Central

Cargill Meat Solutions

P.O. Box 3850

High River, AB, T1V 1P4 

Canada

Contact: Shane Mulrooney

Phone: 403-652-4688

Fax: 403-652-5245

Products: EX,BM,DT,FGAF,HI, 

MB,MM,SF,TG

Region: Western

Cargill Regional Beef

P.O. Box 188

Wyalusing, PA 18853 

Contact: Lisa Kerr-House

Phone: 570-746-9224, x7347

Fax: 570-746-1235

E-mail: lisa_kerr-house@

cargill.com

Products: SF,TG,MB,BFP,EX,BM

Region: Eastern

Central Bi-Products 

Farmers Union Industries LLC

P.O. Box 319

Redwood Falls, MN 56283 

www.fuillc.com

Phone: 507-637-2938

Fax: 507-637-5409

E-mail: danderson@

centralbi.com

Products: FM,PB,SF,TG,HI,MM,

MB,DT,BFP,FGAF,BM,OT(Pet 

food)

Region: Central
www.nationalrenderers.org	 NRA Membership Directory  	 Render April 2017 25

Central Bi-Products 

Farmers Union Industries LLC

P.O. Box 359

Long Prairie, MN 56346 

Phone: 507-637-2938

Fax: 507-637-5409

Products: FM,PB,SF,TG,HI,MM,

MB,PM,BFP,FGAF,BM,OT(Pet 

food)

Region: Central

Darling Ingredients Inc. - 

Headquarters

251 O’Connor Ridge Blvd., 

Suite 300

Irving, TX 75038 

www.darlingii.com

Phone: 972-717-0300

Fax: 972-717-1588

E-mail: info@darlingii.com

Region: Central, Western, 

Eastern

Darling Ingredients Inc. - 

Regional Office

P.O. Box 615

Des Moines, IA 50306 

www.darlingii.com

Phone: 515-288-2166

Fax: 515-288-1007

Region: Central, Western, 

Eastern

Darling Ingredients Inc.

Griffin Industries LLC offices

4221 Alexandria Pike

Cold Spring, KY 41076 

www.darlingii.com

Phone: 859-781-2010

Fax: 859-572-2575

Region: Central, Western, 

Eastern

Rothsay

A Division of Darling 

International Canada Inc.

150 Research Lane, Suite 307

Guelph, ON, N1G 4T2 

Canada

www.rothsay.ca

Phone: 519-780-3342

Fax: 519-780-3360

Region: Central

Terra Renewal

Part of Darling Ingredients Inc.

4221 Alexandria Pike

Cold Spring, KY 41076 

www.terrarenewal.com

Phone: 479-668-4503

Region: Central

For rendered fat sales

DAR PRO Ingredients, 

a Darling Brand

www.darpro-ingredients.com

Contact: Michael Rath

Phone: 800-669-1209

Fax: 972-717-1959

E-mail: fats-proteins@

darpro.com

Products: BLF,BR,CN,DL,EQ,ET,

EX,FGAF,HI,LT,RF,SF,ST,TG,YG,

OT (bio-based diesel)

For rendered protein sales

DAR PRO Ingredients, 

a Darling Brand

www.darpro-ingredients.com

Contact: Doyle Nauman

Phone: 877-659-8438

Fax: 859-781-2569

E-mail: fats-proteins@

darpro.com

Products: BLP,BM,CM,EQ,EX,

PB,PM,FM,LT,MB,MM,OT

(Organic fertilizer, specialty 

proteins, flavor enhancers)

For restaurant services

DAR PRO Solutions, a 

Darling/Griffin Brand

www.darpro-solutions.com

Contact: Todd Mathes

Phone: 972-717-0300

Fax: 972-717-1588

E-mail: recyclingservices@

darpro.com

Rousselot

Part of Darling Ingredients Inc.

1231 S. Rochester Street,

Suite 250

Mukwonago, WI 53149

www.rousselot.com

Contact: Lawrence Jeske

Phone: 262-363-6051

Fax: 262-363-2789

E-mail: larry.jeske@

darlingii.com

Products: Gelatin, hydrolyzed 

collagen

Sonac USA LLC

Part of Darling Ingredients Inc.

1231 S. Rochester Street,

Suite 250

Mukwonago, WI 53149

www.sonac.biz

Contact: Lawrence Jeske

Phone: 262-363-6051

Fax: 262-363-2789

E-mail: larry.jeske@

darlingii.com

Products: Spray-dried blood 

and plasma products, gelatin, 

hydrolyzed collagen, protein 

isolates, other functional proteins

Region: Central

Foster Farms

P.O. Box 457

Livingston, CA 95334 

www.fosterfarms.com

Contact: Dennis Richmond

Phone: 318-368-4344

Fax: 318-368-4310

E-mail: dennis.richmond@

fosterfarms.com

Products: PM,FM,PF,CM,OT 

(organic fertilizers)

Region: Western

G.A. Wintzer & Son Co.

204 W. Auglaize Street

P.O. Box 406

Wapakoneta, OH 45895 

www.gawintzer.com

Contact: Gus Wintzer

Phone: 419-739-4900

Fax: 419-738-9058

E-mail: gus@gawintzer.com

Products: EX,RF,SF,TG,FGAF,HI, 

MB,FM,PB

Region: Eastern

Gelita USA

Gelita AG

P.O. Box 927

Sioux City, IA 51102

www.gelita.com

Contact: Tonya Hanson

Phone: 712-943-5516

Fax: 712-943-3372

E-mail: tonya.hanson@

gelita.com

Products: MB,SF,Gelatine

Region: Central

Gelita USA - Chicago

10 Wentworth Avenue

Calumet City, IL 60409

Contact: Jim Boguslawski

Phone: 708-730-5513

Fax: 708-891-8432

E-mail: jim.boguslawski@

gelita.com

Products: SF,Gelatine

Region: Central

Holmes By-Products Inc.

3175 T.R. 411

Millersburg, OH 44654 

Contact: Abe L. Miller or

Dennis Koshmider

Phone: 330-893-2322

Fax: 330-893-2321

Products: SF,HI,MM,MB,PB,FM

Region: Eastern

Hormel Foods Corp.

1 Hormel Place

Austin, MN 55912 

Contact: Tim Carlson

Phone: 507-437-5207

Fax: 507-437-5367

E-mail: ttcarlson@hormel.com

Products: MB,HI,SF,BM,Lard,

Deodorized edible lard/tallow

Region: Central

Hormel Foods - Austin

500 14th Avenue NE

Austin, MN 55912 

Contact: Dean Steines

Phone: 507-437-5373

Fax: 507-437-5524

E-mail: dwsteines@hormel.com

Products: MB,HI,SF,BM,Lard,

Deodorized edible lard/tallow

Region: Central

Hormel Foods - Fremont

900 S. Platte Avenue

Fremont, NE 68025 

Contact: Jim Farnsworth

Phone: 402-721-2300, x3210

Fax: 402-721-0445

E-mail: jlfarnsworth@

hormel.com

Products: MB,HI,SF,BM,Lard

Region: Central

JBS Swift & Company - 

Headquarters

1770 Promontory Circle

Greeley, CO 80634-9039

Contact: Jim Fisher

Phone: 970-506-8354

Fax: 970-506-8320

E-mail: jim.fisher@jbssa.com

Products: TG,RF,HI,MBM,BM,EX

Region: Western

Plant locations

JBS Swift & Company

800 N. 8th Avenue

Greeley, CO 80634

Contact: Keith Neddermeyer

Phone: 970-304-7247

Fax: 970-304-7320

E-mail: keith.neddermeyer@

jbssa.com

Products: TG,HI,MB,BM,EX

Region: Western

JBS Swift & Company

410 N. 200 W

Hyrum, UT 84319

Contact: Elton Varner

Phone: 435-245-6456

Fax: 435-245-5207

E-mail: elton.varner@jbssa.com

Products: TG,RF,HI,MBM,BM,EX

Region: Western

JBS Swift & Company

P.O. Box 2137

Grand Island, NE 68801

Contact: Steve Caravan

Phone: 308-384-5330

Fax: 308-389-4834

E-mail: steve.caravan@

jbssa.com

Products: TG,HI,MB,BM,EX

Region: Central

JBS Swift & Company

P.O. Box 524

Dumas, TX 79029

Contact: Needham Carswell

Phone: 806-966-5103

Fax: 806-966-5481

E-mail: needham.carswell@

jbssa.com

Products: TG,HI,MB,BM,EX

Region: Central
26 April 2017 Render NRA Membership Directory www.nationalrenderers.org

JBS Swift & Company

1200 Story Avenue

Louisville, KY 40206

Contact: Dave Dewitt

Phone: 502-582-0235

Fax: 502-582-6295

E-mail: dave.dewitt@jbssa.com

Products: TG,MBM,BM

Region: Eastern

JBS Swift & Company

North & 10th Avenue

Marshalltown, IA 50158

Contact: Jon Holden

Phone: 641-752-7131

Fax: 641-752-8509

E-mail: jon.holden@jbssa.com

Products: TG,MBM,BM

Region: Central

JBS Swift & Company

1700 N.E. Highway 60

Worthington, MN 56187

Contact: Kevin Schweigert

Phone: 507-372-2121

Fax: 507-372-4611

E-mail: kevin.schweigert@

jbssa.com

Products: TG,MBM,BM

Region: Central

Mountain View Rendering 

Company

JBS Souderton Inc.

173 Rocco Road

Edinburg, VA 22824

Contact: Jason Janita

Phone: 540-984-4158 

ext. 239

Fax: 540-984-4159

E-mail: jason.janita@jbssa.com

Products: SF,FM,PB,PF,BM,

FGAF,OT

Region: Eastern

JBS - MOPAC

JBS Souderton Inc.

P.O. Box 64395

Souderton, PA 18964

Contact: Ken Gilmurray

Phone: 215-703-6085

E-mail: ken.gilmurray@

jbssa.com

Products: BLF,BLP,FGAF,SF,TG,

EX,LT,MB,PB,BM

Region: Eastern

JBS Packerland Tolleson

651 S. 91st Avenue

Tolleson, AZ 85353

Contact: Jeremy Eatherton

Phone: 970-506-8355

E-mail: jeremy.eatherton@

jbssa.com

Products: DT,HI,MB,SF,TG

Region: Western

JBS Packerland 

Green Bay

P.O. Box 23000

Green Bay, WI 54305

Contact: Jim Holly

Phone: 970-506-8355

E-mail: jim.holly@jbssa.com

Products: DT,HI,MB,SF,TG

Region: Central

Pilgrim’s Pride Corp. -

Rendering Headquarters 

P.O. Box 1268

Mt. Pleasant, TX 75456

www.pilgrims.com

Contact: Mark Glover

Phone: 903-434-1190

Fax: 972-290-8345

E-mail: mark.glover@

pilgrims.com

Products: SF,FM,BM,PF,PM

Region: Central

Plant locations

Pilgrim’s Pride Corp. -

Broadway

330 Co-Op Drive

Timberville, VA 22853

Contact: Hal Davis

Phone: 540-901-6130

Fax: 540-901-6181

E-mail: hal.davis@

pilgrims.com

Products: SF,PM,FM,PB,PF

Region: Eastern

Pilgrim’s Pride Corp. -

Moorefield

129 Potomac Avenue

Moorefield, WV 26836

Contact: Hal Davis

Phone: 304-538-7834

Fax: 304-538-3540

E-mail: hal.davis@

pilgrims.com

Products: SF,PM,FM,PF,PB

Region: Eastern

Pilgrim’s Pride Corp. -

Mt. Pleasant

1220 Pilgrim Street

Mt. Pleasant, TX 75455

Contact: William Welborn

Phone: 903-575-3909

Fax: 903-575-3901

E-mail: william.welborn@

pilgrims.com

Products: SF,PM,FM,BM,PB,PF

Region: Central

Pilgrim’s Pride Corp. -

Sumter

2050 Highway 15 South

Sumter, SC 29150-8799

Contact: Robert Canty

Phone: 803-481-8555, x5100

Fax: 803-481-4263

E-mail: robert.canty@

pilgrims.com

Products: SF,PM,FM,PB,PF

Region: Eastern

John Kuhni Sons Inc.

P.O. Box 15

Nephi, UT 84648 

Phone: 435-758-7600

Fax: 435-758-7610

Products: SF,TG,HI,MB,FGAF, 

OT(Transporter)

Region: Western

Kaluzny Bros. Inc.

1528 Mound Road

Joliet, IL 60436-9808 

Contact: David Kaluzny II

Phone: 815-744-1453

Fax: 815-729-5069

E-mail: dkaluzny2@aol.com

Products: SF,TG,DT,BLF,FGAF,

HI,CWG,YG

Region: Central

Kruger Commodities Inc.

- Headquarters

14344 Y Street, Suite 202

Omaha, NE 68137 

www.krugerinc.com

Contact: James H. Kruger

Phone: 402-896-1324

Fax: 402-896-1784

E-mail: jim@krugerinc.com

Region: Central

Kruger Commodities, Inc.

5900 Old Allegan Road

Hamilton, MI 49419 

Contact: Terry Pfannenstiel

Phone: 269-751-0560

Fax: 269-751-8929

E-mail: terry@krugerinc.com

Products: FM,MB,TG,YG

Region: Eastern

KCI Restaurant Services

Kruger Commodities Inc.

4125 Dahlman Avenue

Omaha, NE 68107

Contact: Scott Ethridge

Phone: 402-898-4700

Fax: 402-898-4702

Products: YG

Region: Central

KCI Restaurant Services

Kruger Commodities Inc.

3370 L Avenue

Tama, IA 52339 

Contact: Bill Farris

Phone: 641-484-3823

Fax: 641-484-3825

Products: DT,TG,YG

Region: Central

Maple Lodge Farms Ltd.

8301 Winston Churchill Blvd.

Brampton, ON, L6Y 0A2

Canada 

Contact: David Willison

Phone: 905-455-8340 x 2359

Fax: 905-455-8370

E-mail: dwillison@

maplelodgefarms.com

Products: SF,PB,FM

Region: Eastern

Mendota Agri-Products 

Inc. - Headquarters

712 Essington Road

Joliet, IL 60435 

www.mendotaagriproducts.com

Contact: John Mahoney

Phone: 815-730-2080

Fax: 815-730-2087

E-mail: johnm@

mahoneyes.com

Products: BLF,DT,FGAF,SF,TG,YG

Region: Central

Mendota Agri-Products 

Inc.

P.O. Box 439, 

448 N. 3973 Road

Mendota, IL 61342 

www.mendotaagriproducts.com

Contact: John Setchell

Phone: 815-539-5633

Fax: 815-539-7943

E-mail: johns@mendag.com

Products: BLF,DT,FGAF,SF,TG,

MB,YG

Region: Central

Mahoney Environmental

712 Essington

Joliet, IL 60435

www.mahoneyenvironmental.com

Contact: Rick Sabol

Phone: 815-302-3912

Fax: 815-730-2087

E-mail: ricks@mahoneyes.com

Product codes: BLF,FGAF,LG,

YG,TG

Mountaire Farms of 

Delaware

Mountaire Corporation

P.O. Box 1320

29093 John J. Williams Hwy

Millsboro, DE 19966

www.mountaire.com 

Contact: Brian Schoeberl

Phone: 302-934-4178

Fax: 302-934-3445

E-mail: bschoeberl@

mountaire.com

Products: SF,PB,FM

Region: Eastern
www.nationalrenderers.org	 NRA Membership Directory  	 Render April 2017 27

Sacramento Rendering 

Company

SRC Companies

11350 Kiefer Boulevard

Sacramento, CA 95830 

Contact: Michael Koewler

Phone: 916-363-4821

Fax: 916-363-8641

E-mail: michaelkoewler@

aol.com

Products: EX,SF,TG,HI,MM,MB, 

DT,FGAF,BFP

Region: Western

Reno Rendering

SRC Companies

1705 N. Wells Avenue

Reno, NV 89512 

Phone: 800-733-6498

Products: Transfer station

Region: Western

Sanimax - Headquarters

9900 Maurice-Duplessis

Montreal, QB, H1C 1G1 

Canada

www.sanimax.com

Contact: Martin Couture

Phone: 514-648-6001 or 

888-495-9091

Fax: 514-648-3013

E-mail: info@sanimax.com

Region: Eastern

Sanimax

P.O. Box 45100

2001 Avenue de La Rotonde

Charny, QB, G6X 3R4 

Canada

www.sanimax.com

Contact: Vincent Brossard

Phone: 418-832-4645, x3190

Fax: 418-832-6995

E-mail: info@sanimax.com

Products: EX,FM,PB,SF,TG,BM,

RF,FGAF,BLF,HI,PM

Region: Eastern

Sanimax

9900 Maurice-Duplessis

Montreal, QB, H1C 1G1 

Canada

www.sanimax.com

Contact: Eric Caputo

Phone: 514-648-6001, x3249

Fax: 514-648-0597

E-mail: info@sanimax.com

Products: EX,FM,PB,SF,TG,BM, 

RF,FGAF,BLF,HI,PM

Region: Eastern

Sanimax

P.O. Box 10067

2099 Badgerland Drive

Green Bay, WI 54303 

www.sanimax.com

Contact: Donn Johnson

Phone: 920-494-5233

Fax: 920-494-9141

E-mail: info@sanimax.com

Products: EX,SF,TG,HI,DT,FGAF, 

MB,BFP

Region: Central

Sanimax

505 Hardman Avenue

South St. Paul, MN 55075 

www.sanimax.com

Contact: Donn Johnson

Phone: 651-451-6858

Fax: 651-451-6542

E-mail: info@sanimax.com

Products: EX,SF,TG,MB,BM, 

MM,FGAF,FM,PB,HI,BFP,RF

Region: Central

Sanimax

605 Bassett Street

DeForest, WI 53532 

www.sanimax.com

Contact: Tony Loritz

Phone: 608-846-5466

Fax: 608-846-5370

E-mail: info@sanimax.com

Products: SF,TG,FGAF

Region: Central

Simmons Feed 

Ingredients

10700 S. State Highway 43

Southwest City, MO 64863 

www.simmonsfeedingredients.com

Contact: Ken Wilson

Phone: 417-762-3001

Fax: 417-762-3867

E-mail: ken.wilson@

simfoods.com

Products: SF,PB,PM,FM

Region: Central

Smithfield - Sales

111 Commerce Street

Smithfield, VA 23430 

Contact: Gregg Redd

Phone: 757-357-1636 

Fax: 757-357-1624

E-mail: gredd@smithfield.com

Products: SF,RF,HI,LG,MM,MB, 

BM,EX,OT(Heparin, plasma, 

runners, hydrolized hog hair)

Region: Eastern

Smithfield - Clinton

424 E. Railroad Street

Clinton, NC 28328 

Contact: Andrew Jordan

Phone: 910-385-7751 

Fax: 910-299-3001

E-mail: ajordan@

smithfield.com

Products: SF,RF,HI,LG,MM,MB, 

BM,EX,OT(Heparin, plasma, 

runners, hydrolized hog hair)

Region: Eastern

Smithfield - Crete

2223 County Road I

Crete, NE 68333 

Contact: Roger Eiklenborg

Phone: 402-826-8885 

E-mail: reiklenborg@

smithfield.com

Products: SF,RF,HI,LG,MM,MB, 

BM,EX,OT(Heparin, plasma, 

runners, hydrolized hog hair)

Region: Central

Smithfield - Dennison

800 Industrial Drive

Dennison, IA 51442 

Contact: Ron Pankau

Phone: 800-831-1812 

E-mail: rpankau@

smithfield.com

Products: SF,RF,HI,LG,MM,MB, 

BM,EX,OT(Heparin, plasma, 

runners, hydrolized hog hair)

Region: Central

Smithfield - Kansas City

11500 NW Ambassador Drive

Kansas City, MO 64195 

Contact: Austin Angel

E-mail: aangel@

smithfield.com

Products: SF,RF,HI,LG,MM,MB, 

BM,EX,OT(Heparin, plasma, 

runners, hydrolized hog hair)

Region: Central

Smithfield - Milan

22123 Highway 5

Milan, MO 63556 

Contact: Gary Banner

Phone: 660-865-4061 

E-mail: gbanner@

smithfield.com

Products: SF,RF,HI,LG,MM,MB, 

BM,EX,OT(Heparin, plasma, 

runners, hydrolized hog hair)

Region: Central

Smithfield - Monmouth

1220 N. 6th Street

Monmouth, IL 61462 

Contact: Scott Peel

Phone: 309-299-4753 

E-mail: speel@smithfield.com

Products: SF,RF,HI,LG,MM,MB, 

BM,EX,OT(Heparin, plasma, 

runners, hydrolized hog hair)

Region: Central

Smithfield - Sioux Falls

1400 N. Weber Avenue

Sioux Falls, SD 57103 

Contact: Don Johnson

Phone: 605-330-3295

E-mail: djohnson@

smithfield.com

Products: BFP,TG,FGAF,MM, 

EX,OT(Pet food meat products)

Region: Central

Smithfield Foods - 

Smithfield

501 N. Church Street

Smithfield, VA 23430 

Contact: John Acevedo

Phone: 757-357-3131 

ext. 2750

E-mail: jacevedo@

smithfield.com

Products: SF,RF,HI,LG,MM,MB, 

BM,EX,OT(Heparin, plasma, 

runners, hydrolized hog hair)

Region: Eastern

National Beef Packing 

Company LLC -

Headquarters

P.O. Box 20046

Kansas City, MO 64195-0046 

www.nationalbeef.com

Contact: Doyle Leefers

Phone: 800-449-2333

Fax: 816-713-8859

E-mail: doyle.leefers@

nationalbeef.com

Products: SF,TG,HI,MM,MB, 

BM,EX

Region: Central

National Beef - Dodge City

2000 E. Trail Street

Dodge City, KS 67801 

Contact: Randy Lyle or 

Mike Clayton

Phone: 620-227-7135

Fax: 620-338-4339

E-mail: randy.lyle@

nationalbeef.com or 

mlclayton@nationalbeef.com

Products: SF,TG,HI,MM,MB, 

BM,EX

Region: Central

National Beef - Liberal

P.O. Box 978

Liberal, KS 67905 

Contact: Arlie Wright

Phone: 620-624-1851

Fax: 620-626-0285

E-mail: alwright@ 

nationalbeef.com

Products: SF,TG,HI,MM,MB, 

BM,EX

Region: Central

Nutri-Feeds Inc.

101 SE 11th Avenue 

Amarillo, TX 79101 

Contact: Garth Merrick

Phone: 806-350-5525

Fax: 806-357-2292

E-mail: garth@

merrickpetcare.com

Products: TG,MB

Region: Central

Protein Products Inc. -

Headquarters

P.O. Box 2974

Gainesville, GA 30503

www.proteinproductsinc.com 

Contact: Jeff Gay

Phone: 770-536-3922

Fax: 770-536-8365

E-mail: jeffg@ppicorp.com

Region: Eastern

Protein Products Inc.

1042 Highway 3

Sunflower, MS 38778

www.proteinproductsinc.com 

Contact: Eric Hilley

Phone: 770-536-3922

Fax: 770-536-8365

E-mail: erich@ppicorp.com

Region: Eastern
28 April 2017 Render NRA Membership Directory www.nationalrenderers.org

Smithfield - Tar Heel

15855 Highway 87 West

Tar Heel, NC 28392 

Contact: Ted Stafford

Phone: 910-879-5758 ext. 758

E-mail: tstafford@

smithfield.com

Products: SF,RF,HI,LG,MM,MB, 

BM,EX,OT(Heparin, plasma, 

runners, hydrolized hog hair)

Region: Eastern

Coastal Protein

1600 Martin Road

Godwin, NC 28344

Contact: Blake Bullard

Phone: 910-567-5604

E-mail: bbullard@

coastalproteins.com

Products: MM,LG

Region: Eastern

Farmer John

3049 E. Vernon Avenue

Los Angeles, CA 90058

Contact: Vince Claugherty

Phone: 626-710-7337

E-mail: vclougherty@

farmerjohn.com

Products: SF,MB,BM,Lard

Region: Western

Pine Ridge Farms

1800 Maury Street

Des Moines, IA 50317

Contact: Brady Stewart

Phone: 515-266-4100

E-mail: bstewart@

pineridgefarmspork.com 

Products: MM,LG

Region: Central

South Chicago Packing 

Company

16250 S. Vincennes Avenue

South Holland, IL 60473

www.miniat.com

Contact: Mike Botelho

Phone: 708-589-2432

Fax: 708-589-2532

E-mail: mbotelho@miniat.com

Products: ET,RF,SF,TG,EX

Region: Central

Tyson Foods Inc. -

Headquarters

2200 Don Tyson Parkway, 

CP721

Springdale, AR 72762

www.tyson.com

Contact: Bo Watson

Phone: 479-290-2897

E-mail: bo.watson@tyson.com

Products: FM,PB,PM,PF,OT

Region: Central

Plant locations

Cullman Blending

P.O. Box 1144

Cullman, AL 35055

Contact: Mike Lankford

Phone: 256-734-7100

Fax: 256-734-4521

Pine Bluff Blending

4211 Emmett Sanders Road

Pine Bluff, AR 71601

Contact: Mike Lankford

Phone: 870-534-7276

Fax: 870-534-7273

RVAF - Clarksville

1238 Market Street

Clarksville, AR 72830

Contact: Frank Fox

Phone: 479-754-3441

Fax: 479-754-8018

RVAF - Forest

11634 Hwy 80 W

Forest, MS 39074

Contact: Reed Kilpatrick

Phone: 601-469-8301

Fax: 479-717-0198

RVAF - Harmony

501 Sheffield Road

Harmony, NC 28634

Contact: Gregg Wikstrom

Phone: 704-546-2602

Fax: 704-546-5944

RVAF - Robards (Henderson)

14660 U.S. Hwy 41 S

Robards, KY 42452

Contact: Mark Badertscher

Phone: 270-521-3160

Fax: 270-521-3181

RVAF - Scranton

7755 N. Hwy 393 S

Scranton, AR 72863

Contact: Jim Rofkahr

Phone: 479-938-2025

Fax: 479-757-7731

RVAF - Sedalia

20003 Menefee Road

Sedalia, MO 65301

Contact: Jim Robejsek

Phone: 660-826-7071

Fax: 660-826-7119

E-mail: james.robejsek@

tyson.com

RVAF - Seguin

1200 W. Kingsbury Street

Seguin, TX 78155

Contact: Keith Yovonavich

Phone: 830-401-8842

Fax: 479-203-4221

RVAF - Temperanceville

11224 Lankford Hwy

Temperanceville, VA 23442

Contact: Tim Johnson

Phone: 757-824-3471

Fax: 757-854-1415

RVAF - Texarkana

5465 Miller County 64

Texarkana, AR 71854

Contact: Dan Crowe

Phone: 870-645-2693

Fax: 870-645-2619

Tyson Fresh Meats

800 Stephens Port Drive, 

DD828D

Dakota Dunes, SD 57049

Contact: Bob Bestgen or

Kim Broekemeier

Phone: 605-235-2523 or

605-235-2836

Fax: 479-757-7595 or 

479-757-7547

E-mail: bob.bestgen@tyson.com 

or kim.broekemeier@tyson.com

Plant locations

Beef sites:

Amarillo, TX

Dakota City, NE

Holcomb, KS

Joslin, IL

Lexington, NE

Pasco, WA

Pork sites:

Columbus Junction, IA

Denison, IA

Madison, NE

Perry, IA

Storm Lake, IA

Logansport, IN

Waterloo, IA

Valley Proteins Inc. -

Headquarters

P.O. Box 3588

Winchester, VA 22604-2586 

www.valleyproteins.com

Contact: Gerald F. Smith Jr.

Phone: 540-877-2590

Fax: 540-877-3210

E-mail: jjsmith@

valleyproteins.com

Products: BFP,BM,CM,EX,FGAF,

FM,HI,MM,PF,PM,SF,TG,YG, 

OT(Pet food meat products)

Region: Eastern

Valley Proteins Inc. - 

Amarillo Division

8415 S.E. 1st Avenue

Amarillo, TX 79118-7302 

Contact: Steve Heredia

Phone: 540-877-2590

Fax: 806-374-1207

E-mail: sheredia@

valleyproteins.com 

Region: Central

Valley Proteins Inc. - 

Baltimore Division

1515 Open Street

Baltimore, MD 21226 

Contact: Robert Hutson

Phone: 540-877-2590

Fax: 410-355-3095

E-mail: rhutson@ 

valleyproteins.com 

Region: Eastern

Valley Proteins Inc. -

Fayetteville Division

1309 Industrial Drive

Fayetteville, NC 28301 

Contact: Paul White

Phone: 540-877-2590

Fax: 910-213-1140

E-mail: pwhite@

valleyproteins.com

Region: Eastern

Valley Proteins Inc. -

Gastonia Division

5533 S. York Road

Gastonia, NC 28052

Contact: Shannon Owen

Phone: 540-877-2590

Fax: 704-861-9252

E-mail: sowen@

valleyproteins.com

Region: Eastern

Valley Proteins Inc. - 

Knoxville Division

9300 Johnson Road

Strawberry Plains, TN 37871 

Contact: Bobby Watson

Phone: 540-877-2590

Fax: 865-932-5713

E-mail: rwatson@

valleyproteins.com 

Region: Eastern

Valley Proteins Inc. - 

Lewiston Division

P.O. Box 10

Lewiston, NC 27849 

Contact: Mike Anderson

Phone: 540-877-2590

Fax: 252-348-2389

E-mail: manderson@

valleyproteins.com 

Region: Eastern

Valley Proteins Inc. - 

Linkwood Division

5420 Linkwood Road

Linkwood, MD 21835 

Contact: Reed Parks

Phone: 540-877-2590

Fax: 410-228-9389

E-mail: rparks@

valleyproteins.com

Region: Eastern

Valley Proteins Inc. - 

Linville Division

6230 Kratzer Road

Linville, VA 22834 

Contact: Hobie Halterman

Phone: 540-877-2590

Fax: 540-833-6504

E-mail: hhalterman@ 

valleyproteins.com 

Region: Eastern

Valley Proteins Inc. - 

Oklahoma Division

2228 S. Santa Fe Avenue

Okalahoma City, OK 73109 

Contact: Randy McKiddie

Phone: 540-877-2590

Fax: 405-235-9960

E-mail: rmckiddie@ 

valleyproteins.com 

Region: Central
www.nationalrenderers.org	 NRA Membership Directory  	 Render April 2017 29

1 2

3

REGIONAL AREAS OF THE 

NATIONAL RENDERERS 

ASSOCIATION

1. Eastern Region

2. Central Region

3. Western Region

Valley Proteins Inc. - 

Rose Hill Division

P.O. Box 1026

469 Yellow Cut Road

Rose Hill, NC 28458 

Contact: Steve Lester

Phone: 540-877-2590

Fax: 910-289-3312

E-mail: slester@

valleyproteins.com

Region: Eastern

Valley Proteins Inc. - 

Terre Hill Division

693 Wide Hollow Road

East Earl, PA 17519 

Contact: John Hamzik

Phone: 540-877-2590

Fax: 717-445-6379

E-mail: jhamzik@ 

valleyproteins.com

Region: Eastern

Valley Proteins Inc. - 

Veribest Division

8394 FM 380

San Angelo, TX 76905 

Contact: Ronnie Meine

Phone: 540-877-2590

Fax: 325-659-3823

E-mail: rmeine@ 

valleyproteins.com 

Region: Central

Valley Proteins Inc. - 

Wadesboro Division

P.O. Box 718

Wadesboro, NC 28170 

Contact: Chris Bivans

Phone: 540-877-2590

Fax: 704-694-6145

E-mail: cbivans@ 

valleyproteins.com

Region: Eastern

Valley Proteins Inc. - 

Ward Division

271 Val-Pro Road

Ward, SC 29166-9801 

Contact: Bill Brochin

Phone: 540-877-2590

Fax: 803-685-2591

E-mail: bbrochin@ 

valleyproteins.com 

Region: Eastern

Valley Proteins Inc. - 

Winchester Division

P.O. Box 3588

Winchester, VA 22604

Contact: Robert Golightly

Phone: 540-877-2590

Fax: 540-877-3136

E-mail: rgolightly@ 

valleyproteins.com 

Region: Eastern

West Coast Reduction Ltd. 

- Headquarters 

1292 Venables Street

Vancouver, BC, V6A 4B4 

Canada

www.wcrl.com

Contact: Gordon Diamond or 

Barry Glotman

Phone: 604-255-9301

Fax: 604-255-3434

E-mail: info@wcrl.com

West Coast Reduction Ltd.

Vancouver Plant Operations

105 Commercial Drive North

Vancouver, BC, V5L 4V7 

Canada

Contact: Doug Davidson

Phone: 604-255-9301

Fax: 604-255-1803

E-mail: info@wcrl.com

Products: EX,FM,PB,SF,TG,BM,

ST,FGAF,BLF,HI,RF,YG,PF,BFP,

CWG,PM,Fish meal,Porcine 

meal

Region: Western

West Coast Reduction 

Ltd. - Calgary

7030 Ogden Dale Place SE

Calgary, AB, T2C 2A3 

Canada

www.wcrl.com

Contact: Geoff Smolkin

Phone: 403-279-4441

Fax: 403-279-6928

E-mail: info@wcrl.com

Products: EX,FM,SF,TG,MB,HI,

DT,BM,ST,FGAF,BLF,RF,YG,Fish

meal

Region: Western

West Coast Reduction 

Ltd. - Edmonton

1930 121 Avenue NE

Edmonton, AB, T6S 1B1 

Canada 

www.wcrl.com

Contact: James Taylor

Phone: 780-472-6750

Fax: 780-472-6944

E-mail: info@wcrl.com

Products: EX,FM,PB,SF,TG,DT,

BM,ST,FGAF,BLF,RF,YG,Fish 

meal,Porcine meal

Region: Western

West Coast Reduction 

Ltd. - Saskatoon

3018 Miners Avenue

Saskatoon, SK, S7K 4Z8 

Canada

www.wcrl.com

Contact: Bruce Sestak

Phone: 306-934-4887

Fax: 306-934-3364

E-mail: info@wcrl.com

Products: EX,FM,PB,SF,TG,MB, 

DT,BM,ST,FGAF,BLF,HI,RF,YG,

Fish meal

Region: Western

Western Mass. Rendering 

Co. Inc.

94 Foster Road

Southwick, MA 01077 

www.westernmassrendering.com

Contact: David T. Plakias

Phone: 413-569-6265

Fax: 413-569-6512

E-mail: david@wmrco.com

Products: EX,SF,FGAF,DT,TG

Region: Eastern
30 April 2017 Render NRA Membership Directory www.nationalrenderers.org

Alabama

American Proteins Inc. ............. 23

BHT ReSources ....................... 24

Cullman Blending.................... 28

Arizona

Baker Commodities Inc............ 24

JBS Packerland Tolleson ........... 26

Arkansas

Pine Bluff Blending................... 28

Tyson Foods Inc....................... 28

Tyson Foods Inc. - RVAF ........... 28

California

Baker Commodities Inc............ 24

Farmer John ........................... 28

Foster Farms ........................... 25

Sacramento Rendering Co. ...... 27

Canada

Cargill Meat Solutions ............. 24

Maple Lodge Farms Ltd............ 26

Rothsay................................... 25

Sanimax ................................. 27

West Coast Reduction Ltd......... 29

Colorado

Cargill Meat Solutions ............. 24

JBS Swift & Company............... 25

Delaware

Mountaire Farms .................... 26

Georgia

American Proteins Inc. ............. 23

Protein Products Inc. ............... 27

Hawaii

Baker Commodities Inc. .......... 24

Illinois

Gelita USA ............................ 25

Kaluzny Bros. Inc. .................... 26

Mahoney Environmental .......... 26

Mendota Agri-Products ........... 26

Smithfield ............................... 27

South Chicago Packing Co....... 28

Tyson Fresh Meats.................... 28

Indiana

Tyson Fresh Meats.................... 28

Iowa

APC Inc.................................. 24

Darling Ingredients ................. 25

Gelita USA ............................ 25

JBS Swift & Company............... 26

KCI Restaurant Services............ 26

Pine Ridge Farms .................... 28

Smithfield ............................... 27

Tyson Fresh Meats.................... 28

Kansas

APC Inc.................................. 24

Cargill Meat Solutions ............. 24

National Beef Packing ............. 27

Tyson Fresh Meats.................... 28

Kentucky

Darling Ingredients ................. 25

JBS Swift & Company............... 26

Terra Renewal ........................ 25

Tyson Foods Inc. - RVAF ........... 28

Maryland

Valley Proteins Inc.................... 28

Massachusetts

Baker Commodities Inc............ 24

Western Mass. Rendering ......... 29

Michigan

Kruger Commodities Inc. ......... 26

Minnesota

Central Bi-Products Co. ......24/25

Hormel Foods Corp................. 25

JBS Swift & Company............... 26

Sanimax ................................. 27

Mississippi

Protein Products Inc. ............... 27

Tyson Foods Inc. - RVAF ........... 28

Active Members by State/Canada

Full listing is available on indicated page number.

Missouri

National Beef Packing Co. ....... 27

Simmons Feed Ingredients ....... 27

Smithfield ............................... 27

Tyson Foods Inc. - RVAF ........... 28

Nebraska

Cargill Meat Solutions ............. 24

Hormel Foods Corp................. 25

JBS Swift & Company............... 26

KCI Restaurant Services............ 26

Kruger Commodities Inc. ......... 26

Smithfield ............................... 27

Tyson Fresh Meats.................... 28

Nevada

Reno Rendering ...................... 27

New York

Baker Commodities Inc............ 24

North Carolina

APC Inc.................................. 24

Coastal Proteins ..................... 28

Smithfield ..........................27/28

Tyson Foods Inc. - RVAF ........... 28

Valley Proteins Inc...............28/29

Ohio

G.A. Wintzer & Son Co............ 25

Holmes By-Products Inc............ 25

Oklahoma

Valley Proteins ........................ 28

Pennsylvania

Cargill Regional Beef............... 24

JBS-MOPAC .......................... 26

Valley Proteins Inc.................... 29

South Carolina

Pilgrim’s Pride Corp. ................ 26

Valley Proteins Inc.................... 29

South Dakota

Smithfield ............................... 27

Tyson Fresh Meats.................... 28

Tennessee

Valley Proteins Inc.................... 28

Texas

Cargill Meat Solutions ............. 24

Darling Ingredients ................. 25

JBS Swift & Company............... 25

Nutri-Feeds Inc........................ 27

Pilgrim’s Pride Corp. ................ 26

Tyson Foods Inc. - RVAF ........... 28

Tyson Fresh Meats.................... 28

Valley Proteins Inc...............28/29

Utah

JBS Swift & Company............... 25

John Kuhni Sons Inc. ............... 26

Virginia

Mountain View Rendering......... 26

Pilgrim’s Pride Corp. ................ 26

Smithfield ............................... 27

Tyson Foods Inc. - RVAF ........... 28

Valley Proteins Inc...............28/29

Washington

Baker Commodities Inc............ 24

Tyson Fresh Meats.................... 28

West Virginia

Pilgrim’s Pride Corp. ................ 26

Wisconsin

JBS Packerland Green Bay ....... 26

Rousselot ............................... 25

Sanimax ................................. 27

Sonac USA LLC ....................... 25
www.nationalrenderers.org	 NRA Membership Directory  	 Render April 2017 31

2017 Associate Members

Brokers of fats and proteins, equipment manufacturers, and firms serving the rendering industry

Air/Water Treatment

Aulick Chemical Solutions

P.O. Box 127

Nicholasville, KY 40340 

www.aulickchemical.com

Contact: Jesse Chula

Phone: 859-881-5422

Fax: 859-881-8194

E-mail: jchula@

aulickchemical.com

Products: H2S elimination, odor 

control, wastewater treatment

Region: Eastern

Chem-Aqua Inc.

NCH Corporation

2727 Chemsearch Boulevard

Irving, TX 75062 

www.chemaqua.com

Contact: Brandon Bischoff

Phone: 936-870-5420

E-mail: brandon.bischoff@

chemaqua.com

Contact: Terry Waldo

Phone: 972-438-0120

E-mail: twaldo@nch.com

Products: Water treatment

Region: Central, Western

Chemtron Corporation

3500 Harry S. Truman 

Boulevard

St. Charles, MO 63301 

www.chemtroncorporation.com

Contact: Leah Woods

Phone: 636-940-5445

Fax: 636-940-0773

E-mail: leahw@

chemtronh2o.com

Region: Central

Clean Water Technology Inc.

151 W. 135th Street

Los Angeles, CA 90061 

www.cleanwatertech.com

Contact: Colette Tassin

Phone: 310-380-4648 x114

E-mail: ctassin@

cleanwatertech.com

Region: Western

FRC Systems International

P.O. Box 3147

Cumming, GA 30028 

www.frcsystems.com

Contact: Leah Surber

Phone: 770-534-3681

Fax: 770-783-8632

E-mail: leah@frcsystems.com

Products: Dissolved air flotation 

equipment

Region: Eastern

Garratt-Callahan 

Company

50 Ingold Road

Burlingame, CA 94010 

www.garrattcallahan.com

Contact: Manny Chargualaf

Phone: 650-697-5811

Fax: 650-692-6098

E-mail: marketing@g-c.com

Products: Water treatment

Region: Western

Kusters Water

Kusters Zima Corporation

P.O. Box 6128

Spartanburg, SC 29304 

www.kusterszima.com

Contact: Bill Guarini

Phone: 864-576-0660

Fax: 864-587-5761

E-mail: bill.guarini@

kusterszima.com

Region: Eastern

NCM Odor Control

425 Whitehead Avenue

South River, NJ 08882 

www.ncmodorcontrol.com

Contact: Steve Fleisher

Phone: 732-238-6700

Fax: 570-801-7879

E-mail: ncmodorcontrol.

steve@gmal.com

Region: Eastern

Parkson Corp.

1401 W. Cypress Creek Road, 

Suite 100

Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309 

www.parkson.com

Contact: Lydia Villamar

Phone: 888-PARKSON

Fax: 954-974-6182

E-mail: technology@

parkson.com

Region: Eastern

SCP Control Inc.

7791 Elm Street NE

P.O. Box 32022 

Minneapolis, MN 55432 

Contact: Eric Peterson

Phone: 763-572-8042

Fax: 763-572-8066

E-mail: info@scpcontrol.com

Region: Central

Steen Research LLC

19363 Willamette Drive, 

Suite 235 

West Linn, OR 97068 

Contact: Steve Temple

Phone: 408-828-8177 or 

503-722-9088

Fax: 503-722-1336

E-mail: stemple@

steenresearch.com

Region: Western

VanAire Inc.

840 Clark Drive 

Gladstone, MI 49837 

www.vanaireinc.com

Contact: Nicole LaPalme

Phone: 906-428-2731

Fax: 906-428-9061

E-mail: nlapalme@

vanaireinc.com

Region: Eastern

Antioxidants

Ameri-Pac Inc.

P.O. Box 1088 

751 S. 4th Street

St. Joseph, MO 64502 

www.ameri-pac.com

Contact: Robert Colescott

Phone: 816-233-4530

Fax: 816-233-1702

E-mail: bobc@ameri-pac.com

Region: Central

Caldic USA

2425 Alft Lane

Elgin, IL 60124 

www.caldic.com

Contact: Sandy Boston

Phone: 913-302-0132

E-mail: sboston@caldic.us

Region: Central

C.F. Zeiler & Company Inc.

8601 LaSalle Road, Suite 203

Towson, MD 21286 

www.cfzeiler.com

Contact: Charlie Zeiler

Phone: 410-828-7182

Fax: 410-828-7183

E-mail: cf_zeiler@cfzeiler.com

Region: Eastern

CFS North America LLC

Camlin Fine Sciences

3179 99th Street

Urbandale, IA 50322 

www.camlinfs.com

Contact: Sandra Grossmann

Phone: 515-423-9854

E-mail: sandra.grossmann@

camlinfs.com

Region: Central

FoodSafe Technologies

94 East Jefryn Boulevard, 

Unit H 

Deer Park, NY 11729 

www.foodsafetech.com

Phone: 631-392-1526

Fax: 631-392-1529

E-mail: render@

foodsafetech.com

Region: Eastern, Central

Kemin Nutrisurance Inc.

1900 Scott Avenue

Des Moines, IA 50317 

www.kemin.com

Contact: Chris Gloger or 

Kevin Custer

Phone: 281-615-7924 (Chris) 

or 515-289-6842 (Kevin)

E-mail: 

chris.gloger@kemin.com or 

kevin.custer@kemin.com

Region: Central

Novus International Inc.

20 Research Park Drive

St. Charles, MO 63304 

Contact: Vanessa Stewart

Phone: 314-550-1592

Fax: 314-576-6041

E-mail: vanessa.stewart@

novusint.com

Region: Central

Peak Tech Inc.

P.O. Box 7

Jeffersonville, IN 47130 

Contact: Jim Sparrow

Phone: 812-283-6697

Fax: 812-283-0765

E-mail: jsparrow@pfauoil.com

Region: Central

Rensin International 

Corporation

17901 Von Karman Avenue

Irvine, CA 92614 

www.rensin-intl.com

Contact: Yan Feng Cai

Phone: 949-556-8874

Fax: 949-242-4766

E-mail: contact@rensin-intl.com

Region: Eastern

Videka

A Diana Pet Food & Kalsec 

Alliance

3713 West Main Street

Kalamazoo, MI 49006 

www.diana-group.com

Contact: Kevin Meyle

Phone: 800-323-9320

Fax: 269-382-3060

E-mail: kmeyle@kalsec.com

Region: Eastern

Bulk Liquid Storage / 

Transportation

CST Storage

A Division of CST Industries Inc.

345 Harvestore Drive

DeKalb, IL 60115 

Contact: Tim O’Connell

Phone: 815-220-5730 or 

405-380-5410

E-mail: toconnell@

cst-storage.com

Region: Central
32 April 2017 Render NRA Membership Directory www.nationalrenderers.org

Dupre Logistics LLC

201 Energy Parkway, Suite 500

Lafayette, LA 70508 

www.duprelogistics.com

Contact: Alfred Parker

Phone: 504-812-8622

E-mail: aparker@

duprelogistics.com

Region: Central

Dura Cast Products Inc.

16160 Hwy 27

Lake Wales, FL 33859 

www.duracast.com

Contact: Gabe Madlang

Phone: 863-638-3200

Fax: 863-638-2443

E-mail: gmadlang@

duracast.com

Region: Eastern

Greentree Logistics Inc.

2703 Geryville Pike

Pennsburg, PA 18073 

www.greentreelogistics.com

Contact: Anthony Pellegrino

Phone: 855-263-3725 x310

Fax: 866-261-8446

E-mail: apellegrino@

greentreelogistics.com

Region: Central

LNL Trucking Inc.

P.O. Box 192

Bedford, IN 47421

www.lnltrucking.com

Contact: Larry Limp

Phone: 812-278-9410

Fax: 812-278-9810

E-mail: larry.lnl@comcast.net

Region: Eastern

Paul Marcotte Farms Inc.

1725N, 12000 E Road

Momence, IL 60954-9467 

Contact: Sherrie Smart

Phone: 815-472-4400

Fax: 815-472-4453

E-mail: smartdispatcher@ 

hotmail.com

Products: Transporters

Region: Central

Stoller Trucking Inc.

P.O. Box 309

Gridley, IL 61744

www.stollertrucking.com

Contact: Brian S. Stoller

Phone: 309-747-4521

Fax: 309-747-4457

E-mail: bstoller@

stollertrucking.com

Region: Central

T-Haul Tank Lines

2561 N. Patterson Avenue

Springfield, MO 65803

www.thaultanklines.com

Contact: Dave Samford

Phone: 417-893-3690

Fax: 417-761-6630

E-mail: dave.samford@

t-haul.com

Region: Central

Chemicals

Anderson Chemical Co.

325 S. Davis

Litchfield, MN 55355 

www.accomn.com

Contact: Brett Anderson

Phone: 320-693-2477

Fax: 320-693-7740

E-mail: bca@accomn.com

Region: Central

Bluestar Silicones USA

Bluestar Chemical Co. Ltd.

2 Town Center Boulevard

New Brunswick, NJ 08816 

www.bluestarsilicones.com

Contact: Tom Stremlau

Phone: 678-477-3366

E-mail: tom.stremlau@

bluestarsilicones.com

Region: Central

CCI

3540 East 26th

Vernon, CA 90058 

Contact: Joe Graffies

Phone: 800-767-9112

E-mail: jgraffies@

ccichemical.com

Region: Western

Chem-Tech Solutions Inc.

427 Brook Street

Belmont, NC 28012 

www.chemtechsolutions.com

Contact: Tony Phillips

Phone: 704-829-9202

Fax: 704-829-9203

E-mail: info@

chemtechsolutions.com

Products: Degreasers, cleaners, 

anti-foam for cookers

Region: Eastern

Cleaning Systems Inc.

Formerly DBA DynaEdge

1997 American Boulevard

De Pere, WI 54115 

www.cleaningsystemsinc.com

Contact: Michael Lamminen

Phone: 920-337-4400

Fax: 920-337-9410

E-mail: mlamminen@

cleaningsystemsinc.com

Products: Degreasers/cleaners 

Region: Central

Croda Inc. - Atlas Point

315 Cherry Lane

New Castle, DE 19720 

Contact: Vernon Clark or 

Stephen McKnight

Phone: 770-331-8588 or 

732-425-1050

E-mail: 

c.vernon.clark@croda.com or 

stephen.mcknight@croda.com

Products: Surfactants

Region: Eastern

Impact Cleaning/DuBois 

Distribution

N8898 River Road

Berlin, WI 54923 

www.duboischemicals.com

Contact: Dale Jezwinski

Phone: 513-504-6036

Fax: 800-543-1720

E-mail: dale.jezwinski@

gmal.com

Products: Degreasers/Cleaners 

for trucks, equipment, walls 

and floors, truck wash systems

Region: Eastern, Central

Hydro Solutions Inc.

P.O. Box 221016

Louisville, KY 40252-1016 

www.hydrosolutions.com

Contact: David Davis

Phone: 502-899-7107

Fax: 502-897-8738

E-mail: hydro@

hydrosolutions.com

Region: Eastern

Vantage OleoChemical

4650 South Racine Avenue

Chicago, IL 60609-3321

Contact: Jason Bettenhausen

Phone: 773-376-9000

Fax: 773-376-1936

E-mail: jason.bettenhausen@ 

vantagegrp.com

Products: Oleochemicals

Region: Central

Commodity Brokers/

Traders

Agri Trading

P.O. Box 609

340 Michigan Street SE

Hutchinson, MN 55350 

www.agritradingcorp.com

Contact: Steve Borstad

Phone: 320-587-2133 or 

320-583-3209

Fax: 320-587-5816

E-mail: steve.borstad@

agritradingcorp.com

Region: Central

D.A. Lorentzen Inc.

1523 Guthrie Drive

Inverness, IL 60010 

Contact: Duane Lorentzen

Phone: 847-991-5220

Fax: 847-991-5220

E-mail: dalorentzen@

gmail.com

Products: TG,FGAF,SF,ET,BR

Region: Central

Decom Inc.

11325 South Hudson Avenue

Tulsa, OK 74137 

Contact: J.C. Deyoe

Phone: 918-298-5205

E-mail: jcdeyoe@aol.com

Products: FM,BP,SF,TG,FGAF, 

MM,MB,DT,BR

Region: Central

E.B. Wakeman Company

846 Higuera Street, Suite 5

San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 

Contact: Gary Gibson

Phone: 805-781-8475

Fax: 805-781-0516

Products: FM,PB,MB,TG,BR

Region: Western

Gavilon Ingredients LLC

1331 Capitol Avenue

Omaha, NE 68102-1106

www.gavilon.com

Contact: Aaron Perkinson

Phone: 402-889-4304

Fax: 402-221-0343

E-mail: aaron.perkinson@

gavilon.com

Products: Animal proteins and 

fats, grain, feed ingredients, 

energy, and biofuels

Region: Central

Gersony Strauss 

Company Inc.

171 Church Street, Suite 270

Charleston, SC 29401

Contact: Lonnie James

Phone: 843-853-7777

Fax: 843-853-6777

E-mail: gersony@gersony.com

Region: Eastern

Hurley Brokerage Inc.

11524 West 183rd Street, 

Unit 103

Orland Park, IL 60467

Contact: Bill Hurley

Phone: 708-361-8823

Fax: 708-361-9649

E-mail: bill.hurley@ 

hurleybrokerage.com

Products: BR,FM,PB,RF,SF,TF,ET,

FGAF,MM,MB,DT

Region: Central

Mini Bruno North 

America Inc.

Mini Bruno Sucesores C.A.

41 West Putnam Avenue, 

2nd Floor

Greenwich, CT 06830

www.minibruno.us

Contact: Alves Neri

Phone: 203-422-2923

Fax: 203-422-0441

E-mail: aneri@minibruno.com

Region: Eastern

Mirasco Inc.

900 Circle 75 Parkway, 

Suite 1660

Atlanta, GA 30339

www.mirasco.com

Contact: Diaa Ghaly

Phone: 770-956-1945

Fax: 770-956-0308

E-mail: diaa.ghaly@

mirasco.com

Region: Eastern
www.nationalrenderers.org	 NRA Membership Directory  	 Render April 2017 33

Noble America's Energy 

Solutions LLC

130 Voyage Mall

Marina del Rey, CA 90292 

www.noblesolutions.com

Contact: Gene Owens

Phone: 310-686-5702

E-mail: gowens@

noblesolutions.com

Products: Natural gas and 

power

Region: Western

Pasternak, Baum & Co. Inc.

500 Mamaroneck Avenue

Harrison, NY 10528 

www.pasternakbaum.com

Contact: Michael Sanchez or 

Mike Moran

Phone: 914-630-8080

Fax: 914-630-8120

E-mail: fatsandoils@

pbaum.net

Products: Fats, oils, grains

Region: Eastern

Perdue Agribusiness LLC

6906 Zion Church Road

Salisbury, MD 21804

www.perdueagribusiness.com/

animal-nutrition

Contact: Darryl Betts

Phone: 410-341-2598

Fax: 410-341-2603

E-mail: darryl.betts@

perdue.com

Products: Poultry and dairy

Region: Eastern

POET Nutrition

POET LLC

4506 N. Lewis Avenue

Sioux Falls, SD 57104

www.poet.com 

Contact: Ashley Hummel

Phone: 605-965-6232

E-mail: ashley.hummel@

poet.com

Products: Fats and oils

Region: Central

Scoular 

250 S Marquette Avenue, 

Suite 1050

Minneapolis, MN 55401

www.scoular.com

Contact: Rendered Desk

Phone: 612-335-8205

Fax: 612-335-8770

E-mail: mmccartan@

scoular.com

Region: Central

Sunbelt Commodities Inc.

P.O. Box 70006

Marietta, GA 30007-0006 

Contact: Dave Haselschwerdt

Phone: 770-578-8883

Fax: 844-269-8316

E-mail: dave@

sunbeltcommodities.com

Products: BR,TG,ET,FM,PB

Region: Central

Third Coast 

Commodities LLC

1218 W. Glendora

Buchanan, MI 49107 

Contact: Paul Dickerson

Phone: 269-422-1944

Fax: 847-589-0820

E-mail: paul@

thirdcoastcommodities.com

Region: Central

Universal Green 

Consultants

201 Montauk Highway 

West Hampton Beach, NY 

11978 

www.ugccorp.org

Contact: Jamie O’Brien

Phone: 631-998-3700

Fax: 631-288-9012

E-mail: jobrien@ugccorp.org

Region: Eastern

Wilbur-Ellis Feed Division 

Wilbur-Ellis Company

2001 SE Columbia River Drive

Vancouver, WA 98661 

www.wilburellis.com

Contact: Diane Kimmel

Phone: 360-816-0748

Fax: 360-892-4097

E-mail: dkimmel@

wilburellis.com

Region: Western

Wilks & Topper Inc.

567 5th Street

Oakland, CA 94607-3500 

Contact: Alex Elsner

Phone: 510-251-6300

Fax: 510-251-6295

E-mail: wilkstoppr@aol.com

Products: FM,PB,TG,ET,FGAF, 

MM,MB,BM,FA,OT

Region: Western

W.W.S. Inc.

4032 Shoreline Drive, Suite 2 

Spring Park, MN 55384 

www.wwstrading.com

Contact: Wendy Weihe Storlie

Phone: 952-541-9001 or 

888-645-6328

Fax: 952-541-9206

E-mail: wendy@

wwstrading.com

Products: Commodity merchandiser of fats, oils, and proteins

Region: Central, Eastern, 

Western

Consultants

Bolton & Menk Inc.

P.O. Box 668

Ames, IA 50010-0668 

www.bolton-menk.com

Contact: Greg Sindt

Phone: 515-233-6100

Fax: 515-233-4430

E-mail: gregsi@

bolton-menk.com

Products: Environmental 

engineering and permit 

services, wastewater treatment 

facility design and studies

Region: Central

Energy Management 

Resources Inc.

7501 Tiffany Springs Parkway

Kansas City, MO 64153 

www.emr-energy.com

Contact: Ginger Needham

Phone: 816-883-1000

Fax: 816-883-1001

E-mail: slawrence@

emr-energy.com

Region: Central

GHD Services Inc.

7086 N. Maple Avenue,

Suite 101

Fresno, CA 93720 

www.ghd.com

Contact: Michael Beerends or 

Jason Haelzle

Phone: 559-326-5900

Fax: 559-326-5905

E-mail: michael.beerends@

ghd.com or 

jason.haelzle@ghd.com

Region: Western

National Grease 

Recycling Inc.

2708 Charlie Taylor Road

Plant City, FL 33565 

E-mail: nationalgrease@aol.com

Region: Eastern

Praedium Ventures

10538 Justin Drive

Urbandale, IA 50322 

www.praediumventures.com

Contact: David Meisinger

E-mail: meisingerd@

praediumventures.com

Products: Animal welfare, food 

safety, and quality, FSMA prep

Region: Central

Reid Engineering 

Company Inc.

1210 Princess Anne Street

Fredericksburg, VA 22401 

www.reidengineering.com

Contact: Shane H. Reid

Phone: 540-371-8500

Fax: 540-371-8576

E-mail: sreid@

reidengineering.com

Products: Wastewater, water,

utility, and site development

Region: Eastern

Equipment

AC Corporation

P.O. Box 16367

Greensboro, NC 27416-0367

Contact: Trip Walker

www.accorporation.com

Phone: 336-273-4472

Fax: 336-274-6035

E-mail: twalker@ 

accorporation.com

Region: Eastern

Alfa Laval Inc.

111 Parker Street

Newburyport, MA 01970

www.alfalaval.com

Contact: Jeff Logan

Phone: 978-853-8218

E-mail: jeff.logan@alfalaval.com

Region: Eastern

Alloy Hardfacing & Eng. 

Co. Inc.

20425 Johnson Memorial Dr. 

(Hwy 169)

Jordan, MN 55352 

www.alloyhardfacing.com

Contact: Paul Rothenberger

Phone: 800-328-8408 or

952-492-5569

Fax: 952-492-3100

E-mail: paulr@

alloyhardfacing.net 

Region: Central, Western

Anco-Eaglin Inc.

1420 Lorraine Avenue

High Point, NC 27263-2040 

www.ancoeaglin.com

Contact: Rick Eaglin

Phone: 336-855-7800

Fax: 336-855-7831

E-mail: ancoeaglin@aol.com

Region: Western

Artex Manufacturing

P.O. Box 88

Redwood Falls, MN 56283

www.artexmfg.com

Contact: Mark Schwiderski

Phone: 507-644-2893

Fax: 507-644-7000

E-mail: mschwiderski@

artexmfg.com

Products: Aluminum rendering 

trailers, air/water treatment

Region: Central

Brown Industrial Inc.

311 W. South Street 

P.O. Box 74

Botkins, OH 45306-0074 

www.brownindustrial.com

Contact: Craig D. Brown

Phone: 937-693-3838

Fax: 937-693-4121

E-mail: craig@

brownindustrial.com

Products: Truck bodies/trailers

Region: Central, Eastern, 

Western

Cablevey Conveyors

Intraco Inc.

P.O. Box 148

Oskaloosa, IA 52577 

www.cablevey.com

Contact: Karl Seidel

Phone: 641-673-8451

Fax: 641-673-7419

E-mail: Karl.Seidel@

cablevey.com

Region: Central
34 April 2017 Render NRA Membership Directory www.nationalrenderers.org

Consolidated Fabricators

14620 Arminta Street

Van Nuys, CA 91402 

www.con-fab.com

Contact: Kerry Holmes

Phone: 818-933-0885

E-mail: kholmes@con-fab.com

Products: Waste containers

Region: Western

DGA & Associates

P.O. Box 145

Clitherall, MN 56524

Contact: Duane G. Anderson

Phone: 952-881-4088

Fax: 952-881-2703

E-mail: dgaassociates@

qwestoffice.net

Region: Central

Dupps Company 

P.O. Box 189

Germantown, OH 45327

www.dupps.com

Contact: Frank Dupps Jr. or 

Richard Weeks

Phone: 937-855-6555

Fax: 937-855-6554

E-mail: info@dupps.com

Region: Central, Eastern, 

Western

Dupps Company - Ankeny

P.O. Box 257

Ankeny, IA 50021 

www.dupps.com

Contact: Theodore Clapper

Phone: 515-964-1110

Fax: 515-964-0863

E-mail: tclapper@ dupps.com

Products: Repair and sales

Region: Central, Western

Dupps Separation 

Technology / Dupps Gratt 

Centrifuges 

P.O. Box 189

Germantown, OH 45327

www.dupps.com

Contact: Ray Jobe

Phone: 937-855-6555

Fax: 937-855-6554

E-mail: rjobe@dupps.com

Region: Central, Eastern, 

Western

Frontline 

International Inc.

95 16th Street, SW

Barberton, OH 44203

www.frontlineii.com

Contact: John Palazzo 

Phone: 330-861-1100

Fax: 330-861-1105

E-mail: jpalazzo@

frontlineii.com

Products: Used cooking oil automated system (equipment only)

Region: Eastern

Gainesville Welding & 

Rendering Equipment

37 Henry Grady Highway

Dawsonville, GA 30534-9802 

www.gwrendering.com

Contact: Terry Stephens

Phone: 706-216-2666

Fax: 706-216-4282

E-mail: gwrenderingequipment@

windstream.net

Region: Eastern

Genesis III Inc.

P.O. Box 186

5575 Lyndon Road

Prophetstown, IL 61277 

www.g3hammers.com

Contact: Jonathan Paul

Phone: 815-537-7900 or 

866-376-7900

Fax: 815-537-7905

E-mail: jonathan.paul@

g3hammers.com

Products: Hammermills and parts

Region: Central

Haarslev Inc.

9700 NW Conant Avenue

Kansas City, MO 64153

www.haarslev.com

Contact: Hans H. Nissen

Phone: 816-799-0808

Fax: 816-799-0812

E-mail: info-usa@haarslev.com

Region: Central, Western

Industrial Hardfacing Inc.

218 E. Main Street

Lamoni, IA 50140

www.industrialhardfacing.com

Contact: Chip Millslagle

Phone: 800-247-7778

Fax: 641-784-6923

E-mail: sales@industhard.com

Region: Central

Industrial Steam

1403 SW 7th Street

Atlantic, IA 50022

www.industrialsteam.com

Contact: Jeremy Zellmer 

Phone: 712-243-5300

E-mail: jzellmer@

industrialsteam.com

Products: Deaerators, firetube 

boilers, and high pressure 

condensate systems

Region: Central

Leem Filtration

25 Arrow Road

Ramsey, NJ 07446 

www.leemfiltration.com

Contact: Bill Boyd

Phone: 813-653-9006

Fax: 813-685-3382

Products: Filtration equipment

Region: Eastern

MAC Trailer Mfg.

14599 Commerce Street

Alliance, OH 44601 

www.mactrailer.com

Contact: Joe Dennis

Phone: 330-823-9900

Fax: 330-823-0232

Region: Eastern

Martin Sprocket & Gear

3600 McCart Street

Ft. Worth, TX 76110 

www.martinsprocket.com

Contact: Juan Fletes

Phone: 817-258-3000

Fax: 817-258-3173

E-mail: jfletes@

martinsprocket.com

Products: Bulk material 

handling and mechanical 

power transmission equipment

Region: Central

MMI Tank and Industrial 

Services

3240 S. 37th Avenue

Phoenix, AZ 85009-9700 

www.mmitank.com

Contact: Steve Denny

Phone: 602-272-6000

Fax: 602-272-6700

E-mail: steve@mmitank.com

Products: Manufacture/Install 

carbon steel/stainless steel 

tanks, repair/replace cooker 

shafts, screw conveyors/presses, 

dryers, grinders, boilers, etc.

Region: Western

Olson Manufacturing/

V-Ram

620 S. Broadway

Albert Lea, MN 56007-4526 

www.vram.com

Contact: Jeff Hall

Phone: 507-373-3996

Fax: 507-373-5937

E-mail: jeff@vram.com

Region: Central

Olymspan US Branch

Changzhou Olymspan Thermal 

Energy Equipment Co. Ltd.

659 E. 1250 S

Providence, UT 84332 

www.olymspan.com

Contact: Tina Feng

Phone: 970-430-1289

E-mail: tina.feng@

olymspan.com

Products: Boilers, pressure 

vessels, horizontal production 

center, rolling machines

Region: Western

Onkens Inc.

P.O. Box 72

320 E. Main

Easton, IL 62633 

www.onkens.net

Contact: David Hull

Phone: 309-562-7271

Fax: 309-562-7272

E-mail: dhull@onkens.net

Products: Truck bodies, trailers, 

and bulk grease containers

Region: Central, Eastern, 

Western

Orthman Conveying 

Systems

P.O. Box B

Lexington, NE 68850 

www.orthman.com

Contact: Jimmy Rios

Phone: 817-542-8859

E-mail: jrios@orthman.com

Region: Central

Par-Kan Company 

2915 W 900 S

Silver Lake, IN 46982

www.par-kan.com

Contact: Kyle Bruner

Phone: 260-352-2141

Fax: 260-352-0701

E-mail: kbruner@par-kan.com

Products: Grease containers/lids

Region: Central

Phelps Fan LLC

P.O. Box 190718

Little Rock, AR 72219-0718

www.phelpsfan.com

Contact: Harold Specht

Phone: 501-568-5550

Fax: 501-568-3363

E-mail: hspecht@

phelpsfan.com

Region: Central

Rendeq Inc.

1813 Frank S. Holt Drive 

Burlington, NC 27215 

www.rendeq.com

Contact: Mark DeWeese

Phone: 336-226-1100

Fax: 336-270-5357

E-mail: info@rendeq.com

Region: Eastern

Roll Rite LLC

650 Industrial Drive

Gladwin, MI 48624

www.rollrite.com 

Contact: James Kenyon

Phone: 989-896-1111

Fax: 989-345-7805

E-mail: jamesk@rollrite.com

Products: Automated tarp 

system for trucking industry

Region: Central
www.nationalrenderers.org	 NRA Membership Directory  	 Render April 2017 35

RW Manufacturing

P.O. Box 599

Stuttgart, AR 72026 

www.rwmfginc.com

Contact: Shane Sweetin or 

Randy Sweetin

Phone: 870-673-7226

Fax: 870-673-6131

E-mail:

ssweetin@rwmfginc.com or 

rsweetin@rwmfginc.com

Products: Replacement parts 

for hammer mills and shakers

Region: Central

Saeplast Americas Inc.

100 Industrial Drive

Saint John, NB, E2R 1A5

Canada

www.saeplast.com

Contact: Mike Kilpatrick

Phone: 506-633-0101

Fax: 506-658-0227

E-mail: mike.kilpatrick@

promens.com

Products: Plastic containers

Region: Eastern

Scan American Corp.

9505 N. Congress Avenue

Kansas City, MO 64153 

www.scanamcorp.com

Contact: Jeff Drake

Phone: 816-880-9321

Fax: 816-880-9343

E-mail: jdrake@

scanamcorp.com

Products: Pumps, cookers, presses, driers, grinders, 

coagulators, crushers, mixers

Region: Central

Seepex Inc.

Seeberger Gmbh

511 Speedway Drive

Enon, OH 45323 

www.seepex.com

Contact: Aaron Renick

Phone: 937-864-7150

Fax: 937-864-7157

E-mail: arenick@seepex.net

Products: Aseptic designs for 

food processing

Region: Eastern

Sturtevant Inc.

348 Circuit Street

Hanover, MA 02339 

www.sturtevantinc.com

Contact: Steve Marshall

Phone: 781-829-6501

Products: Air classifier 

separator for poultry meal

Region: Eastern

Summit Trailer Sales Inc.

One Summit Plaza

Summit Station, PA 17979 

www.summittrailer.com

Contact: Chuck Pishock

Phone: 570-754-3511

Fax: 570-754-7025

E-mail: chuck@

summittrailer.com

Region: Eastern

Superior Process 

Technologies

1915 Broadway Street NE

Minneapolis, MN 55413 

www.superiorprocesstech.com

Contact: Doug Smith

Phone: 612-378-0800

Fax: 702-975-5758

Products: Biodiesel production

Region: Central

Titus Inc.

9887 6 B Road

Plymouth, IN 46563

www.titusinc.com

Contact: Tom Read

Phone: 574-936-3345

Fax: 574-936-3905

E-mail: tread@titusinc.com

Products: Titus II grinder

Region: Central, Eastern

Travis Body and Trailer Inc.

13955 FM 529

Houston, TX 77041

www.travistrailers.com

Contact: C.K. (Bud) Hughes

Phone: 713-466-5888 or

800-535-4372

Fax: 713-466-3238

E-mail: info@travistrailers.com

Products: Trailer manufacturer

Region: Central

Uzelac Industries Inc.

6901 Industrial Loop

Greendale, WI 53129

www.uzelacind.com

Contact: Michael Uzelac

Phone: 414-529-0240

Fax: 414-529-0362

E-mail: mike@uzelacind.com

Products: Duske drying systems

Region: Central

Virginia Truck Center

P.O. Box 96

Weyers Cave, VA 24486

www.virginiatruckcenter.com

Contact: Greg Witt

Phone: 540-453-1003

Fax: 540-234-0997

E-mail: gwitt@

virginiatruckcenter.com

Region: Eastern

Walinga USA Inc.

1190 Electric Avenue

Wayland, MI 49348

www.walinga.com

Contact: Terry Medemblik

Phone: 800-466-1197

Fax: 616-877-3474

E-mail: tjm@walinga.com

Products: Collection vehicles

Region: Eastern

Equipment - Centrifuges

Centrifuge Chicago 

Corporation

1721 Summer Street

Hammond, IN 46320 

www.centrifugechicago.com

Contact: Doug Rivich

Phone: 219-852-5200

Fax: 219-852-5204

E-mail: doug@

centrifugechicago.com

Products: Repair, parts, service

Region: Central

Centrisys Corporation

9586 58th Place

Kenosha, WI 53144

www.centrisys.us

Contact: Michele Whitfield

Phone: 262-654-6006

Fax: 262-764-8705

E-mail: info@centrisys.com

Region: Western

CentriTEK - Industrial 

Centrifuge Specialists

Chris Gatewood Industries Inc.

77 Solano Square, #303

Benicia, CA 94510

www.centritek.us

Contact: Chris Gatewood

Phone: 209-304-2200

E-mail: chris@centritek.com

Region: Western

Elgin Separation Solutions

Elgin Equipment Group

10050 Cash Road

Stafford, TX 77477

www.elginseparationsolutions.

com

Contact: Raymond Pietramale

Phone: 281-261-5778

Fax: 281-499-4080

E-mail: ray.pietramale@

elginindustries.com

Region: Central

GEA Westfalia Separator

100 Fairway Court

Northvale, NJ 07647

www.wsus.com

Contact: Rawn Walley

Phone: 201-767-3900

Fax: 201-767-3416

E-mail: info.wsus@

geagroup.com

Region: Eastern

GreySun Equipment 

Company 

3102 Avenue M Ex

Conroe, TX 77301

www.greysuncentrifugerental.

com

Contact: Kye Keliehor

Phone: 936-524-5162

Fax: 936-494-3897

E-mail: cbrock@

greysunrentals.com

Region: Central

GTech

2511 N. Frazier Street

Conroe, TX 77305

www.gtechus.com 

Contact: Dennis Edwards

Phone: 281-290-9229

Fax: 936-494-0012

E-mail: dennis.edwards@

gtechus.com

Region: Central

Industrial Process 

Equipment

Centrifugal Services LLC

312 C Street

St. Albans, WV 25177 

Contact: Chad Dillon

Phone: 304-727-6652

Fax: 304-201-4395

E-mail: chad.dillon@

elginindustries.com

Region: Eastern

Jenkins Centrifuge 

Company LLC

1123 Swift Street

North Kansas City, MO 64116 

www.jenkinscentrifuge.com

Contact: Kevin Jenkins or 

Cam Kirkpatrick

Phone: 800-635-1431

Fax: 816-471-6692

E-mail: kjenkins@

jenkinscentrifuge.com or

ckirkpatrick@jenkinscentrifuge.com

Products: Rebuild centrifuges, buy 

and sell equipment, manufacture 

horizontal centrifuges

Region: Central, Eastern, 

Western

Kayden Industries LP

3348 58th Avenue SE 

Calgary, AB, T2C 0B3 

Canada

www.kaydenindustries.com

Contact: Mark Oscienny

Phone: 403-571-6688

Fax: 403-264-5901

E-mail: moscienny@

kaydenindustries.com

Region: Eastern

Separators Inc.

5707 W. Minnesota Street

Indianapolis, IN 46241 

www.separatorsinc.com

Contact: Bill Otter

Phone: 317-484-3745

Fax: 317-484-3755

E-mail: separate@sepinc.com

Region: Central, Eastern

Equipment - Repair

Brown's Milling Supply Inc.

P.O. Box 500

Alma, NE 68920

www.brownssupply.com

Contact: Mike Stemper

Phone: 402-721-7899

Fax: 866-313-2256

E-mail: billing@

brownssupply.com

Region: Central
36 April 2017 Render NRA Membership Directory www.nationalrenderers.org

Cen-Tex Centrifuge LLC

16505 I-45 South

Willis, TX 77318

www.cen-tex.net

Contact: Jeremy Files

Phone: 281-914-2516

Fax: 936-344-2152

E-mail: jfiles@cen-tex.net

Region: Central

MDH Boiler Service & 

Repair Inc.

12106 S. Center Street

South Gate, CA 90280 

Contact: Mauro Donate

Phone: 562-630-2875

Fax: 562-630-2595

E-mail: mdonate@

mdhboiler.com

Region: Western

Exporters

Fornazor International Inc.

455 Hillsdale Avenue

Hillsdale, NJ 07642

www.fornazor.com

Contact: John Fornazor

Phone: 201-664-4000

Fax: 201-664-3222

E-mail: john@fornazor.com

Region: Eastern

International Feed

P.O. Box 280

2075 Daniels Street

Long Lake, MN 55356

www.internationalfeed.com

Contact: Derek Michalski or 

Bernie Kaiser

Phone: 952-249-9818

E-mail: dmichalski@

internationalfeed.com or 

berniek@internationalfeed.com

Products: Supplier/Exporter of 

animal protein meals

Region: Central

Feed Manufacturers/

Ingredients

Boyer Valley Company

LGI Company

2425 S.E. Oak Tree Court

Ankeny, IA 50021

www.boyervalley.com 

Contact: Steve Lankford

Phone: 515-289-7666

Fax: 515-289-4369

E-mail: steve.lankford@

boyervalley.com

Products: PBM,BM,FM,YG

Region: Central

Feed Energy Company

4400 E. University Ave

Pleasant Hill, IA 50327

www.feedenergy.com

Contact: Joe Green

Phone: 800-451-9413

Fax: 515-265-4163

E-mail: sales@feedenergy.com

Products: BLF,FA,FGAF,RF,SF

Region: Central

International Ingredient 

Corporation

150 Larkin Williams Industrial 

Court

Fenton, MO 63026 

www.iicag.com

Contact: Kevin M. Halpin

Phone: 636-343-4111

Fax: 636-349-4845

E-mail: khalpin@iicag.com

Products: Specialty ingredients

Region: Central

International Nutrition

P.O. Box 27540

Omaha, NE 68127 

www.ini-agworld.com

Contact: Steve Silver

Phone: 402-331-0123

Fax: 402-331-0169

E-mail: info@ini-agworld.com

Region: Central

Mid-South Milling 

Company

710 Oakleaf Office Lane

Memphis, TN 38117 

www.msmilling.com

Contact: Nathan Pappas

Phone: 901-681-4301

Fax: 901-681-4337

E-mail: npappas@

msmilling.com

Region: Eastern, Central

Nutra-Flo Protein 

Products

202 North Derby Lane

North Sioux City, IA 57049

www.nfprotein.com

Contact: Eric J. Lohry

Phone: 712-279-1938

Fax: 712-279-1973

Products: Animal protein 

producer

Region: Central

Nutrient Concepts Inc.

500 Cathedral, Suite 2325

Aptos, CA 95001

Contact: Jerry Ball

Phone: 209-481-3943

Fax: 888-761-8927

E-mail: ball.jerry@

sbcglobal.net

Region: Western

P&G Pet Care 

Procter and Gamble

8700 Mason-Montgomery 

Road

Mason, OH 45040

www.iams.com

Contact: Greg Daniel

Phone: 513-622-0774

Fax: 513-945-2798

E-mail: daniel.gd.2@pg.com

Products: Dog/Cat food

Region: Eastern

Papillon Agriculture 

Company

30 N. Harrison Street, 

Suite 204

Easton, MD 21601 

www.papillon-ag.com

Contact: Brenda Roop

Phone: 401-820-7400

E-mail: brenda@

papillon-ag.com

Products: Bypass protein 

products for dairy industry.

Region: Eastern

Premier Ag Resources Ltd. 

747 Hyde Park Road, 

Suite 205

London, ON, Canada 

N6H 3S3

www.parltd.ca

Contact: Paul Primeau

Phone: 519-657-1177

E-mail: pprimeau@parltd.ca

Region: Eastern

The Peterson Company

6312 W. Main

Kalamazoo, MI 49009 

www.thepetersoncompany.com

Contact: Leigh Ann Sayen

Phone: 269-350-2900

E-mail: leighanns@

thepetersoncompany.com

Region: Eastern

Financial/

Professional Services

Marsh

Marsh McLennan Companies

777 South Figueroa Street

Los Angeles, CA 90017 

www.marsh.com

Contact: Richard B. Cook

Phone: 213-346-5323

Fax: 213-346-5928

E-mail: dick.cook@marsh.com

Region: Western

Williams Mullen

1441 Main Street, Suite 1250

Columbia, SC 29201 

www.williamsmullen.com

Contact: Ethan Ware

Phone: 803-567-4610

E-mail: eware@williamsmullen.com

Products: Law firm

Region: Eastern

Laboratory/Testing

Crystal Laboratory

242 Hwy 60 E, Suite 2

P.O. Box 829

Lake Crystal, MN 56055 

Contact: Steve Marsh

Phone: 507-726-2387

Fax: 507-726-2388

E-mail: smarsh507@gmail.com

Region: Central

Diversified Laboratories Inc.

4150 Lafayette Center Drive, 

Suite 600

Chantilly, VA 20151 

www.diversifiedlaboratories.com

Contact: Peter Kendrick

Phone: 703-222-8700

Fax: 703-222-0786

E-mail: pkendrick@

diversifiedlaboratories.com

Region: Eastern

Eurofins Scientific Inc.

2200 Rittenhouse Street,

Suite 150

Des Moines, IA 50321 

www.eurofinsus.com

Contact: Lars Reimann

Phone: 901-301-8425

E-mail: larsreimann@

eurofinsus.com

2219 Lakeshore Drive, 

Suite 500

New Orleans, LA 70122 

Contact: Christine McIntosh

Phone: 504-297-3400

E-mail: christinemcintosh@

eurofinsus.com

Region: Central

FOSS North America

8091 Wallace Road

Eden Prairie, MN 55344 

www.foss.us

Contact: Tim Welby

Phone: 800-547-6275

Fax: 952-974-9823

E-mail: twelby@fossna.com

Region: Central

NP Analytical Laboratories

Checkerboard Square 

St. Louis, MO 63164

www.npal.com

Contact: Judy O’Brien

Phone: 314-982-2193

Fax: 314-982-1078

E-mail: jobrien@purina.com

Region: Central

Thionville Laboratories Inc.

Thionville Surveying Co. Inc.

5440 Pepsi Street

New Orleans, LA 70123 

Contact: Paul Thionville

Phone: 504-733-9603

Fax: 504-733-6457

E-mail: operations@

thionvillenola.com

Region: Central

Whitbeck Laboratories Inc.

1000 Backus Avenue

Springdale, AR 72764

www.whitbecklabs.com

Phone: 800-874-8195

E-mail: info@

whitbecklabs.com

Region: Central
www.nationalrenderers.org	 NRA Membership Directory  	 Render April 2017 37

Samplers and Surveyors

Cullen Maritime 

Services Inc.

465 46th Street

Richmond, CA 94805-2301 

Contact: John Spenik

Phone: 510-232-6700

Fax: 510-232-6766

E-mail: cmssfo@pacbell.net

2126 E. 7th Street

Long Beach, CA 90804 

Contact: John Spenik

Phone: 562-433-4355

Fax: 562-433-3457

E-mail: john.spenik@ 

cullenmaritime.com

9317 232nd Street SW

Edmonds, WA 98020-5026 

Contact: Craig Burgess

Phone: 206-783-6979

Fax: 206-783-6913

Region: Western

Trade Groups/Journals

American Feed Industry 

Association

2101 Wilson Boulevard, 

Suite 916

Arlington, VA 22201

www.afia.org

Contact: Joel G. Newman

Phone: 703-524-0810

Fax: 703-524-1921

E-mail: jnewman@afia.org

Region: Eastern

Pet Food Institute

2025 M Street NW, Suite 800

Washington, DC 20036 

www.petfoodinstitute.org

Phone: 202-367-1120

Fax: 202-367-2120

Region: Eastern

Poultry Protein and Fat 

Council

1530 Cooledge Road

Tucker, GA 30084 

www.uspoultry.org/ppfc_index.cfm

Contact: Rafael Rivera

Phone: 678-514-1978

Fax: 770-493-9257

E-mail: rrivera@uspoultry.org

Region: Eastern

Western United Dairymen

1017 L Street, Suite 582

Sacramento, CA 95814

www.westernuniteddairymen.com

Contact: Gary Conover

Phone: 916-492-0892

Fax: 916-492-1645

E-mail: gary@garyconover.com

Products: California dairy milk 

producer/trade organization

Region: Western

Other

Anitox 

1055 Progress Circle

Lawrenceville, GA 30043

www.anitox.com

Contact: John Putnam

Phone: 678-376-1055

Fax: 678-376-1413

E-mail: jputnam@anitox.com

Products: Pathogen control, 

milling efficiency

Region: Eastern

ALG Labels & Graphics 

3005 4th Avenue South

Birmingham, AL 35233

www.alggraphics.com

Contact: Wilson Pirtle

Phone: 205-313-5135

Fax: 205-328-0123

E-mail: wpirtle@

alggraphics.com

Region: Eastern

Arreff Terminals Inc.

Fornazor International Inc.

3600 Elm Avenue

Portsmith, VA 23704

Contact: Noel Smith

Phone: 757-393-2730

Fax: 757-393-2899

Products: Bulk transloading/

bagging

Region: Eastern

BIS Computer Solutions Inc.

2428 Foothill Boulevard

La Crescenta, CA 91214

Contact: Veronika Pitross

Phone: 818-248-5023

Fax: 818-249-1169

E-mail: veronikap@

biscomputer.com

Products: Software design

Region: Western

Bruker Optics 

19 Fortune Drive

Billerica, MA 01821

www.brukeroptics.com

Contact: Nancy Wright-Ross

Phone: 978-439-9899

Region: Eastern

Caito Fisheries Inc.

P.O. Box 2415

San Francisco, CA 94126

Contact: Jeanette Caito

Phone: 415-441-2121

Fax: 415-441-2221

E-mail: caitosf@mcn.org

Products: Seafood processor

Region: Western

Chemol Company Inc.

P.O. Box 16286

Greensboro, NC 27416

www.chemol.com

Contact: Fred Wellons

Phone: 336-333-3050

E-mail: fred@chemol.com

Products: Bio-based and 

bio-renewable chemicals from 

animal fats and vegetable oils

Region: Eastern

Countryside Hides Inc.

Boston Hides and Furs

10261 Twin Angela Lane

Alma Center, WI 54611

Contact: Sidney Erickson

Phone: 715-964-5021

Fax: 715-964-5023

E-mail: cowboycountryside@

gmail.com

Products: Dead stock removal, 

pet food, hides

Region: Central

FaegreBD Consulting

1050 K Street NW, Suite 400

Washington, DC 20001

www.faegrebdc.com

Contact: Andy Ehrlich

Phone: 202-312-7400

Fax: 202-312-7461

E-mail: andy.ehrlich@

faegrebd.com

Products: Legal Counsel

Region: Eastern

Farmland Foods

P.O. Box 20121, Dept. 122

Kansas City, MO 64195

www.farmlandfoods.com

Contact: Robert Eastep

Phone: 816-713-7878

Fax: 816-713-7700

E-mail: rleastep@farmland.com

Products: Beef/pork packers

Region: Central

High Performance 

Systems Corp.

107-3 Cramer Ave

Dunellen, NJ 08812 

www.highperfsystems.com

Contact: Jeffrey Smedley

Phone: 908-377-4111

Fax: 908-279-7021

E-mail: highperfsystems@

yahoo.com

Region: Eastern

Jacob Stern & Sons Inc.

2104 75th Street

Houston, TX 77011

Contact: Jay Van Valen or 

Jeffrey Peeler

Phone: 713-926-8386

Fax: 713-926-8128

E-mail: jvanvalen@

tx.jacobstern.com or

jeffp@tx.jacobstern.com

Products: Tallow

Region: Central

Jacobsen Publishing

1123 W. Washington 

Boulevard, Floor 3

Chicago, IL 60607 

www.thejacobsen.com

Contact: Ryan Standard

Phone: 312-726-6600

Fax: 312-726-6654

E-mail: ryan@

thejacobsen.com

Region: Central

Kappa Products Corp.

1301 E. 99th Street

Chicago, IL 60628-1697

Contact: Paul Stern

Phone: 773-374-0600

Fax: 773-374-5625

Products: Animal and 

vegetable oils producers

Region: Central

Olymel S.E.C.

2200 Avenue Pratte

Bureau 400

St-Hyacinthe, QB, J2S 4B6

Canada

www.olymel.ca

Phone: 450-771-0400

Fax: 450-771-4872

E-mail: ClaudeBourgault@

olymel.com

Products: Meat processor

Region: Eastern

Renewable Energy Group 

416 S. Bell Avenue

P.O. Box 888

Ames, IA 50010

www.regfuel.com

Contact: Dave Elsenbast

Phone: 515-239-8117

E-mail: dave.elsenbast@

regi.com

Products: Biodiesel production, 

feedstock procurement, marketing

Region: Central

Southwest Hide Co.

9207 W. Blackeagle Drive

Boise, ID 83709 

www.southwesthide.com

Contact: John Rueb

Phone: 208-378-8000

Fax: 208-377-9069

E-mail: jr@southwesthide.com

Products: DL,EX,HI

Region: Central, Western

Stolt-Nielsen USA Inc. 

Stolt Tankers B.V.

800 Connecticut Avenue,

4th Floor East

Norwalk, CT 06856

www.stolt-nielsen.com

Contact: Gary Kolachovsky

Phone: 203-838-7100

Fax: 203-299-0067

Region: Eastern

Sustainable Sourcing LLC

19633 LaGrange Road

Mokena, IL 60448 

www.sustainablesourcingllc.com

Contact: David Ciarlette

Phone: 815-714-8055

Fax: 812-645-1830

E-mail: rosanne.crockett@

sustainablesourcingllc.com

Products: Sustenance (food) for 

probiotic (animal) processes

Region: Central
38 April 2017 Render NRA Membership Directory www.nationalrenderers.org

AC Corporation ..................... 33

Agri Trading ........................... 32

Alfa Laval Inc. ........................ 33

ALG Lables & Graphics ........... 37

Alloy Hardfacing & Eng. .......... 33

Ameri-Pac Inc. ........................ 31

American Feed Industry ........... 37

Anco-Eaglin Inc. ..................... 33

Anderson Chemical Co. .......... 32

Anitox .................................... 37

Arreff Terminals Inc. ................ 37

Artex Manufacturing ............... 33

Aulick Chemical Solutions ....... 31

BIS Computer Solutions .......... 37

Bluestar Silicones .................... 32

Bolton & Menk Inc. ................. 33

Boyer Valley Company ............ 36

Brown Industrial Inc. ............... 33

Brown's Milling Supply Inc. ...... 35

Bruker Optics ......................... 37

Cablevey Conveyors ............... 33

Caito Fisheries Inc. ................. 37

Caldic USA ............................ 31

CCI ....................................... 32

Cen-Tex Centrifuge ................. 36

Centrifuge Chicago Corp. ....... 35

Centrisys Corporation ............. 35

CentriTEK .............................. 35

C.F. Zeiler & Company Inc. ..... 31

CFS North America LLC .......... 31

Chem-Aqua Inc. ..................... 31

Chem-Tech Solutions Inc. ........ 32

Chemol Company Inc. ............ 37

Chemtron Corporation ........... 31

Clean Water Technology ......... 31

Cleaning Systems Inc. ............. 32

Consolidated Fabricators ........ 34

Countryside Hides Inc. ............ 37

Croda Inc. ............................. 32

Crystal Laboratory .................. 36

CST Storage ........................... 31

Cullen Maritime Services ......... 37

D.A. Lorentzen Inc. ................. 32

Associate Members by Alphabetical

Full listing is available on indicated page number.

Decom Inc. ............................ 32

DGA & Associates .................. 34

Diversified Laboratories ........... 36

Dupps Company .................... 34

Dupps Separation ................... 34

Dupre Logistics LLC ................ 32

Dura Cast Products Inc. .......... 32

E.B. Wakeman Company ........ 32

Elgin Separation Solutions ....... 35

Energy Management ............... 33

Eurofins Scientific Inc. ............. 36

FaegreBD Consulting .............. 37

Farmland Foods ..................... 37

Feed Energy Company ............ 36

FoodSafe Technologies ........... 31

Fornazor International Inc. ....... 36

FOSS North America .............. 36

FRC Systems .......................... 31

Frontline International Inc. ....... 34

Gainesville Welding ................ 34

Garratt-Callahan Company .... 31

Gavilon Ingredients LLC .......... 32

GEA Westfalia Separator ......... 35

Genesis III Inc. ....................... 34

Gersony Strauss Company ...... 32

GHD Services Inc. .................. 33

Greentree Logistics Inc. ........... 32

GreySun Equipment ................ 35

GTech ................................... 35

Haarslev Inc. .......................... 34

High Performance Systems ....... 37

Hurley Brokerage Inc. ............. 32

Hydro Solutions Inc. ................ 32

Impact Cleaning/DuBois ........ 32

Industrial Hardfacing Inc. ........ 34

Industrial Process Equipment .... 35

Industrial Steam ..................... 34

International Feed .................. 36

International Ingredient Corp. .. 36

International Nutrition ............. 36

Jacob Stern & Sons Inc. .......... 37

Jacobsen Publishing ................ 37

Jenkins Centrifuge Co. ............ 35

Kappa Products Corp .............. 37

Kayden Industries LP ............... 35

Kemin Nutrisurance Inc. .......... 31

Kusters Water ......................... 31

Leem Filtration ........................ 34

LNL Trucking Inc. .................... 32

Lock America International ...... 34

MAC Trailer Mfg. .................... 34

Marsh .................................... 36

Martin Sprocket & Gear .......... 34

MDH Boiler Service ................ 36

Mid-South Milling Company .... 36

Mini Bruno North America ...... 32

Mirasco Inc. ........................... 32

MMI Tank and Industrial .......... 34

National Grease Recycling ...... 33

NCM Odor Control ................ 31

Noble America's Energy .......... 33

Novus International Inc. .......... 31

NP Analytical Laboratories ....... 36

Nutra-Flo Protein Products ....... 36

Nutrient Concepts Inc. ............ 36

Olson Manufacturing/V-Ram ... 34

Olymel S.E.C. ........................ 37

Olymspan US Branch ............. 34

Onkens Inc. ........................... 34

Orthman Conveying ............... 34

P&G Pet Care ........................ 36

Papillon Agricultural ................ 36

Par-Kan Company .................. 34

Parkson Corp. ........................ 31

Pasternak, Baum & Co. ........... 33

Paul Marcotte Farms Inc. ......... 32

Peak Tech Inc. ........................ 31

Perdue Agribusiness ................ 33

Pet Food Institute .................... 37

Phelps Fan LLC ....................... 34

POET Nutrition ....................... 33

Poultry Protein & Fat Council ... 37

Praedium Ventures .................. 33

Premier Ag Resources ............. 36

Reid Engineering Company ..... 33

Rendeq Inc ............................. 34

Renewable Energy Group ........ 37

Rensin International ................ 31

Roll Rite LLC ........................... 34

RW Manufacturing .................. 35

Saeplast Americas Inc. ............ 35

Scan American Corp. ............. 35

Scoular .................................. 33

SCP Control Inc. .................... 31

Seepex Inc. ............................ 35

Separators Inc. ....................... 35

Southwest Hide Co. ................ 37

Steen Research LLC ................ 31

Stoller Trucking Inc. ................ 32

Stolt-Nielsen USA Inc. ............. 37

Sturtevant Inc. ........................ 35

Summit Trailer Sales Inc. ......... 35

Sunbelt Commodities Inc. ....... 33

Superior Process Technologies .. 35

Sustainable Sourcing LLC ........ 37

T-Haul Tank Lines ................... 32

The Peterson Company ........... 36

Thionville Laboratories ............ 37

Third Coast Commodities ........ 33

Titus Inc. ................................ 35

Travis Body and Trailer Inc. ...... 35

Universal Maintenance ........... 38

Universal Green Consultants ... 33

Uzelac Industries LLC .............. 35

Val-U-Meat Pkg ...................... 38

Vantage OleoChemical .......... 32

Videka.................................... 31

Virginia Truck Center .............. 35

Validus .................................. 38

VanAire Inc. ........................... 31

Walinga USA Inc. ................... 35

Wells Fargo Food ................... 38

Western United Dairymen ........ 37

Whitbeck Laboratories Inc. ...... 36

Wilbur-Ellis Feed Division ........ 33

Wilks & Topper Inc. ................. 33

Williams Mullen ..................... 36

Worcester Industrial Products ... 38

W.W.S. Inc. ............................ 33

Universal Maintenance Inc.

P.O. Box 104

Murrayville, GA 30564

www.universalmaintenance.com

Contact: Jessica Colbert

Phone: 706-297-0087

Fax: 706-297-0088

E-mail: jessica@bellsouth.net

Products: General contractor

Region: Eastern

Val-U-Meat Pkg

2107 So. Milliken

Ontario, CA 91761

Contact: Steve Stiles

Phone: 909-390-9828

Fax: 909-390-9833

E-mail: stevestiles@

dslextreme.com

Products: Dead stock removal 

- dairy

Region: Western

Validus

A division of Where Food 

Comes From Inc.

10538 Justin Drive 

Urbandale, IA 50322 

www.validusservices.com

Contact: Brian Bennett

Phone: 571-830-6603

Fax: 703-563-6027

E-mail: bennettb@

validusservices.com

Products: Professional services

Region: Central

Wells Fargo Food and 

Agribusiness 

7000 Central Parkway,

Suite 580

Atlanta, GA 30328

www.wellsfargo.com

Contact: Jim Nutt

Phone: 770-551-4678

Fax: 770-551-5139

E-mail: james.h.nutt@

wellsfargo.com

Region: Eastern

Worcester Industrial 

Products

7 Brookfield Street

Worcester, MA 01605 

www.shortening-shuttle.com

Contact: Martha Hawley

Phone: 800-533-5711

Fax: 508-831-9990

E-mail: mhawley@shorteningshuttle.com

Products: Grease transport

Region: Eastern
www.nationalrenderers.org	 NRA Membership Directory  	 Render April 2017 39

2017 International Active Members

Akiolis Group

72 Avenue Olivier Messiaen

Le Mans, 72000 France 

www.akiolis.com

Contact: Stephan Grawitz 

Phone: 32-244-81-5010

Fax: 32-244-81-5012

E-mail: stephan.grawitz@

akiolis.com

Products: BM,CM,FM,PM,MB,

MM,PF,SF,TG,YK

Bachoco S.A. de C.V. 

AV. Tecnologico #401 CD. 

Industrial 

Celaya, Guanajuato, 38010 

Mexico

www.bachoco.com

Contact: Juan Alejandro 

Hernandez Ripalda 

Phone: 46-1618-3593 

E-mail: juan.hernandez@

bachoco.net

Products: BM,FM,PM,PB,PF

Daka Denmark A/S

Dakavej 10

Loesning, 8723 Denmark

www.daka.dk

Contact: N.C. Leth Nielsen 

Phone: 45-5156-4600

Fax: 45-7928-4008

E-mail: ln@daka.dk

Products: SF,TG,HI,EX,MM,MB, 

BM,FGAF

Harinas de Minatitlan 

S.A. de C.V.

San Jose S/N - A. Col. Nueva 

Mina

Minatitlan, Veracruz, 96760 

Mexico

www.harinasdeminatitlan.com

Contact: Andres Arbesu Lago

Phone: 922-221-0909

Fax: 922-221-0908

E-mail: arbesu1@prodigy.net.mx

Products: MB,Tallow

Jabon y Grasas S.A. de C.V.

Cerrada Rafael Angel de la 

Peña #247 

INT 1 Colonia Transito 

Mexico City, Distrito Federal, 

06820 Mexico 

www.jabonygrasas.com.mx

Contact: Rodrigo Gonzalez 

Lopez or Andres Gonzalez 

Lopez

Phone: 52-55-5788-8614 

Fax: 52-55-5788-8614 

E-mail: rgonzalez@jygsa.com.

mx, agonzalez@jygsa.com.mx

Products: Horn/hoof meal, TG

Peerless Holdings Pty. Ltd.

21 Evans Street

Braybrook, Victoria, 3019 

Australia

Contact: Julius Rath

Phone: 613-9214-7777

Fax: 613-9318-2396

Products: TG,MB,BM,FM

Productos para Aves y 

Animales S.A. de C.V.

Porvenir 67, Los Olivos, 

Del Tlahuac

Mexico City, D.F., 13210 

Mexico

Contact: Eduardo Lopez

Phone: 52-555-845-0126

Fax: 52-555-845-0127

Products: MB,Animal fat

Render Grases S.L.

Ctra. SE-3410 KM 3

Salteras, Sevilla, 41909 Spain

www.rendergrasas.es

Contact: Maria Pabon

Phone: 34-902-26-00-10

E-mail: mariapabon@

rendersur.net

Products: PM,Animal fat

Rengra - Rendimientos 

Grasos

Rengra SA de CV

Km 7.5 Carretera Monterrey 

Monclova int “B”

El Carmen, Nuevo Leon 

66550 Mexico

www.rengra.com.mx

Contact: Fernando Mendizabal 

Fernandez

Phone: 52-818-1543220

Fax: 52-818-1543216

E-mail: fmf@rengra.com.mx

Products: MBM,YG,Technical 

grade tallow

Ryco Jamaica Ltd.

P.O. Box 239

Mandeville, Manchester

Jamaica W.I.

www.rycoja.com

Contact: Kevin Mullane

Phone: 876-987-1891

Fax: 876-987-1629

E-mail: rycoja@aol.com

Products: PB,YG,PF

SARIA Bio-Industries AG 

& Co. KG

Werner Str. 95

Selm, 59379 Germany

www.saria.com

Contact: Dr. Kurt Stoffel 

Phone: 49-2592-210-258

Fax: 49-2592-210-124

E-mail: kurt.stoffel@saria.com

Products: EX,FM,PB,RF,SF,TG, 

HI,MM,MB,BM,BFP,ET,FGAF,

CM,PF,PM,YG

ZheJiang Biomass 

Solutions Co. Ltd 

25th Floor Global Center 

19 West Lake Culture Plaza 

Hangzhou, 310014 PR China

www.cnbioms.com

Contact: Jim Zhao

E-mail: msn572@hotmail.com

Phone: 86-571-85268601

Fax: 86-571-88333322

Products: OT

2017 International Associate Members

Agro Commercial 

Terramar Chile

Carretera Goal.

San Martin 13240 Paradero

Colina, Santiago, 74340000

Chile

www.terramar-chile.com

Contact: Sacha Ilic

Phone: 56-2-860-8212

E-mail: sacha.ilic@terramarchile.com

ChinaFeedOnline.com

15th Floor, Radio City

505 Hennessy Road

Causeway Bay, Hong Kong

www.chinafeedonline.com

Contact: Christine Wang

Phone: 852-2871-0708

Fax: 852-2871-0950

E-mail: hk@21cfo.com

Products: China market 

information service

Compania Scoular de 

Mexico S de R.L. de C.V.

Ave. Acueducto No. 4851

Piso 3 Oficina 2

Col. Puerta de Hierro

Zapopan, Jalisco, 45116

Mexico

www.scoular.com

Contact: Rodolfo Sanchez

Phone: 52-33-3679-3000

Fax: 52-33-3630-4807

E-mail: rsanchez@scoular.com

Products: Commodities broker

De Smet Rosedowns Ltd.

Cannon St.

Hull East Yorkshire, HU2 0AD

England

www.rosedowns.co.uk

Phone: 44-1482-329864

Fax: 44-1482-325887

E-mail: rosedowns@ 

desmetgroup.com

FMC International Corp.

11th Floor, No. 866-1, Chung 

Cheng Road

Chung-Ho City, Taipei Hsien

Taiwan, 235 China

Contact: Slim Chou

Phone: 886-2-8221-2666 x10

E-mail: fmc@fmcintco.com

Guandong Guonon 

Economic & Trade Co. Ltd.

Rm. F, 18/F, Mingyue Ge

Mingyeu One Road

Wuyang New City

Guangzhou, Guangdong

510600 China

www.guo-nong.com

Contact: Helen Zhou

Phone: 86-20-87358081

Fax: 86-20-87358082

Products: Purchaser of US/

Canadian proteins, YG, and T

Haarslev Industries A/S

Bogensevej 85

P.O. Box 65

Bogense, DK 5400 Denmark

www.haarslev.com

Contact: Tony Johnson

Phone: 45-63-83-1100

Fax: 45-63-83-1120

E-mail: info@haarslev.dk

Keith Engineering 

(Australia) Pty. Ltd.

P.O. Box 354 

St. Clair, NSW, 2759 Australia

www.keitheng.com.au

Contact: Derek Henderson 

Phone: 612-9852-1000

Fax: 612-9852-1001

E-mail: admin@keitheng.com.au
40 April 2017 Render NRA Membership Directory www.nationalrenderers.org

NRA Headquarters and Support Offices

National Renderers 

Association Inc.

500 Montgomery Street,

Suite 310

Alexandria, VA 22314

www.nationalrenderers.org

Phone: 703-683-0155

Fax: 571-970-2279

E-mail: renderers@ 

nationalrenderers.com

Headquarters Staff

Administrative

Nancy Foster, President

Phone: 571-858-5412

E-mail: nfoster@ 

nationalrenderers.com

Barbara Alexander, 

Administrative/Office Manager

Phone: 703-683-0155

E-mail: balexander@ 

nationalrenderers.com

Scientific Services

David L. Meeker, PhD, MBA, 

Senior Vice President

Phone: 703-683-2633

E-mail: dmeeker@ 

nationalrenderers.com

International Programs

Kent Swisher, Vice President

Phone: 703-683-3561

E-mail: kswisher@ 

nationalrenderers.com

Communications, Science and 

Education

Jessica Meisinger, PhD, MBA, 

Director

Phone: 703-683-2914

E-mail: jmeisinger@ 

nationalrenderers.com

Convention Coordinator

Covert Operations

15460 Turnberry Drive 

Haymarket, VA 20169-1908

Contact: Marty Covert

Phone: 703-754-8740

Fax: 703-754-7426

E-mail: co@martycovert.com

NRA Regional Offices

Asia

21/FL., Causeway Bay 

Commercial Building

1-5 Sugar Street

Causeway Bay

Hong Kong

Contact: Peng Li, PhD, 

Regional Director

Teresa Hon, Admin. Assistant

Phone: 852-2890-2529

Fax: 852-2576-8045

E-mail: nrahkg@ 

nrahongkong.com.hk

Latin America

E-mail: nramex@

nralatinamerica.org

Animal Protein 

Producers Industry (APPI) 

Committee

P.O. Box 132

1143 C.R. 1123

Huntsville, MO 65259

Contact: Dara John, Programs 

Coordinator

Ansen Pond, Darling 

Ingredients, Chairman

Phone: 660-277-3469

Fax: 660-277-3466

E-mail: appi@cvalley.net

Fats & Proteins Research 

Foundation (FPRF)

500 Montgomery Street,

Suite 310

Alexandria, VA 22314

www.fprf.org 

Contact: David L. Meeker, PhD, 

MBA, Director of Research

Duane Anderson, Farmers 

Union Industry, Chairman

Phone: 703-683-2633

Fax: 571-970-2279

E-mail: dmeeker@

nationalrenderers.com

Render Magazine

1621 Glen Drive

Placerville, CA 95667

www.rendermagazine.com

Contact: Tina Caparella, Editor

Phone: 530-306-6792

Fax: 530-644-8429

E-mail: editors@ 

rendermagazine.com

Marpar SA

Pampa 1007

Valentin Alsina, BA, Argentina 

1822

www.mapar.com.ar

Contact: Jaime Sasson 

Phone: 54-114-208-7888

E-mail: jaime.sasson@

mapar.com.ar

Products: MB,Tallow

Materia Hnos SA CIF

Int. Camusso 1364

Mar Del Plata, Buenos Aires 

Argentina 7600

www.materiaoleochemicals.com

Contact: Vicente Materia 

Phone: 54-223-499-3000

Products: Oleochemicals

MJI Universal Pte Ltd.

133 Cecil Street, #11-01A

01B Keck Seng Tower

Singapore 069535

Contact: Johnny Hooi 

Phone: 65-622-06676

Fax: 65-622-06678

E-mail: johnhooi@

mjiuniversal.com

Products: MB,FM,PM,BM

Natural Agricultural Co. 

(WA) Ltd.

P.O. Box 3117

21 Edinburgh Road

Enugu, 400001 Nigeria

Contact: Dr. Emmanuel 

Okpara 

Phone: 234-8033-338210

E-mail: graobynn@yahoo.com

Products: Poultry processing, 

egg supplier

Oleon nv

Assenedestraat 2

Ertvelde, 9940 Belgium

Contact: Hubert Denoose 

Phone: 32-9-341-17-52

Fax: 32-9-341-17-49

E-mail: hubert.denoose@

oleon.com

Products: EQ

Proteinas Marinas y 

Agropecuarias S.A. de 

C.V.

Calle Dos Cañas 2775

La Nogalera

Guadalajara, Jalisco, 44470 

Mexico 

www.protmagro.com

Contact: Raul Iniguez 

Phone: 52-33-38-10-21-85

Fax: 52-38-38-10-30-49

E-mail: rauliniguez@

protmagro.com

Products: DL

Shanghai Gentech 

Industries Group Co. Ltd.

15F, Bldg 3, Lane 90, Jiuxin 

Road

Songjiang District, Shanghai

China 201615

www.gentechchina.com

Contact: Mark Rottmann 

Phone: 86-021-57633535

Fax: 86-021-57632800

E-mail: mrottmann@

gentechcnina.com

Products: Importer

Stord Process AS

Liamyrane 6, 5132 Nyborg

Bergen, Norway

www.stord-as.com

Contact: Harald Nesse 

Phone: 47-551-97230

Fax: 47-551-97239

E-mail: harald@stord-as.com

Products: EQ

Teampower Feed & 

Grains Trading Ltd.

Rm 1803-1805,

Great Eagle Centre

No 26, Harbour Road

Wanchai, Hong Kong

Contact: Pang Kong Lik

Phone: 852-2845-3000

Fax: 852-2845-7000

World Renderers 

Organization

Tim Juzefowicz, President

E-mail: tim.juzefowicz@

csfproteins.com.au

www.worldrenderers.org

500 Montgomery Street,

Suite 310

Alexandria, VA 22314

Contact: Nancy Foster

Phone: 703-683-0155

Fax: 571-970-2279

E-mail: nfoster@ 

nationalrenderers.com
Risk	Assessment	for	the	Transmission	of	Foot	and	Mouth	Disease	via	Movement	of	Swine	and	Cattle	

Carcasses	from	FMD‐infected	Premises	to	a	Disposal	Site	 Page	1	

Risk Assessment for the Transmission 

of Foot and Mouth Disease via 

Movement of Swine and Cattle 

Carcasses from FMD-infected 

Premises to a Disposal Site 

February 2014

Prepared by the University of Minnesota

Center for Animal Health and Food Safety for

West Texas A&M University under a

Cooperative Agreement from USDA APHIS

funded by DHS S&T

Available at: go.usdatraining.com/UMRA
Risk	Assessment	for	the	Transmission	of	Foot	and	Mouth	Disease	via	Movement	of	Swine	and	Cattle	

Carcasses	from	FMD‐infected	Premises	to	a	Disposal	Site	 Page	2	

Table of Contents 

List of Figures ............................................................................................................................. 4 

Abbreviations .............................................................................................................................. 7 

Definitions ................................................................................................................................... 8 

Executive Summary .................................................................................................................. 13 

1. Background ........................................................................................................................ 14

2. Scope ................................................................................................................................. 15

3. Assumptions ...................................................................................................................... 16

4. Overview of data analysis approaches ............................................................................... 17

5. FMD Depopulation Procedures and Carcass Movement .................................................. 19

5.1. Standard Operating Procedures for FMD Depopulation ................................................... 19 

5.2. Types of Transportation ..................................................................................................... 23 

5.3. Transportation Regulations ................................................................................................ 26 

5.4. Pathway analysis for Carcass Movement .......................................................................... 27 

6. Hazard identification ......................................................................................................... 28

6.1. Background ........................................................................................................................ 28 

6.2. Virus Characteristics .......................................................................................................... 29 

6.3. Host range of FMD ............................................................................................................ 29 

6.4. Transmission ...................................................................................................................... 30 

6.5. Incubation Period ............................................................................................................... 30 

6.6. Clinical Signs ..................................................................................................................... 31 

6.7. Concentration of virus in tissues, secretions, excretions ................................................... 31 

6.8. Environmental Persistence ................................................................................................. 32 

7. Entry Assessment .............................................................................................................. 32

7.1. Likelihood that swine and cattle carcasses moved from a FMD positive premise will 

contain an infective dose .................................................................................................... 33 

7.1.1. Time for FMD detection .................................................................................................... 34 

7.1.2. Time from detection to depopulation................................................................................. 36 

7.1.3. Number of viremic livestock after depopulation................................................................ 39 

7.1.4. FMDv concentration in swine and cattle viremic carcasses .............................................. 41
Risk	Assessment	for	the	Transmission	of	Foot	and	Mouth	Disease	via	Movement	of	Swine	and	Cattle	

Carcasses	from	FMD‐infected	Premises	to	a	Disposal	Site	 Page	3	

7.2. Likelihood that transportation of carcasses will produce leakage and spillage of fluids 

contaminated with FMDv .............................................................................................. 47 

7.2.1. Carcass fluids .................................................................................................................. 47 

7.2.1.1. Leachate, Leakage and Spillage ...................................................................................... 47 

7.2.1.2. Amount of Carcass Fluids ............................................................................................... 48 

7.2.2. Potential for Leakage and Spillage of Carcass Fluids during Movement ....................... 48 

7.3. Likelihood transportation of carcasses will aerosolizae FMDv particles.....................49 

7.3.1. Bioaerosol Science .......................................................................................................... 50 

7.3.2. Bioaerosols and FMDv .................................................................................................... 50 

7.3.3. Expert Opinion on Bioaerosolization.............................................................................. 51 

7.3.4 Potential for Aerosolization of Carcass Fluids during Movement ................................... 52 

8. Exposure Assessment ..................................................................................................... 54

9. Risk Estimation................................................................................................................ 54

10. Conclusions .................................................................................................................... 54

11. Recommendations for further research........................................................................... 55

Acknowledgments......................................................................................................................... 56 

References: .................................................................................................................................... 57 

Appendix A: Model Disease Spread ............................................................................................. 62 

Appendix B: Bio-Zip Bag product information ......................................................................... 65 

Appendix C: Federal and State Regulations for Carcass Movement ............................................ 70 

Appendix D: Expert Opinion – Rendering ................................................................................... 74 

Appendix E: Expert Opinion – Depopulation ............................................................................... 75 

Appendix F: Aerosol Science ....................................................................................................... 76 

Appendix G: Expert Opinion – Aerosols...................................................................78 
Risk	Assessment	for	the	Transmission	of	Foot	and	Mouth	Disease	via	Movement	of	Swine	and	Cattle	

Carcasses	from	FMD‐infected	Premises	to	a	Disposal	Site	 Page	4	

List of Figures 

Figure 1: Standard Rendering Truck with Grapple System ........................................................................ 20 

Figure 2: Grapple truck with dump trailer. ................................................................................................ 20 

Figure 3: Standard Rendering Truck and Trailer ........................................................................................ 23 

Figure 4: Example of a tarp drawn tight over a trailer. ............................................................................... 24 

Figure 5: Example of a roll-off truck trailer. .............................................................................................. 25 

Figure 6: Example of a dump truck trailer. ................................................................................................. 25 

Figure 7: Series of events to expose susceptible species to FMDv through the movement of infected 

carcasses. .................................................................................................................................... 27 

Figure 8: Aerosol (A) and cross-contamination (B) pathways for the exposure of susceptible species to 

FMDv through the transportation of infected carcasses. ........................................................... 28 

Figure 9: FMD curve in a 3,000 head swine farm during the first index case ............................................ 40 

Figure 10: FMD curve in a 2,000 head dairy cattle farm during the first index case ................................. 40 

Figure 11: FMD curve in a 5,000 head feedlot beef cattle farm during the first index case ....................... 41 
Risk	Assessment	for	the	Transmission	of	Foot	and	Mouth	Disease	via	Movement	of	Swine	and	Cattle	

Carcasses	from	FMD‐infected	Premises	to	a	Disposal	Site	 Page	5	

List of Tables 

Table 1: Descriptive scale to estimate the likelihood for an event to occur ................................................ 18

Table 2: Expert opinion on time to euthanasia and euthanasia time ........................................................... 21 

Table 3: Expert opinion on depopulation technology time efficiency ........................................................ 22 

Table 4: Federal Regulations Addressing Transportation of Carcass ......................................................... 26 

Table 5: Input parameters used in the FMD spread model in a swine farm. .............................................. 34 

Table 6: Input parameters used in the FMD spread model in a dairy and beef cattle herd. ........................ 35 

Table 7: Total time from infection to starting the depopulation procedure ................................................ 36 

Table 8: Time to depopulate a farm for each of the species ....................................................................... 37 

Table 9: Input values to estimate timings for depopulation procedure in case of FMD outbreak in a dairy 

cattle farm. ................................................................................................................................... 38 

Table 10: Input values to estimate timings for depopulation procedure in case of FMD outbreak in a swine 

farm ............................................................................................................................................. 38 

Table 11: Input values to estimate timings for depopulation procedure in case of FMD outbreak in a 

feedlot beef cattle farm ............................................................................................................... 38 

Table 12: Results from the simulation for the first FMD case .................................................................... 39 

Table 13: Results from the simulation for the subsequent FMD cases ....................................................... 39 

Table 14: Titers of FMDv present in select tissues, excretions and secretions of pigs after slaughter ....... 41 

Table 15: Titers of FMDv present in select tissues, excretions and secretions of cattle after slaughter. .... 43 

Table 16: Weight ranges of different species, depending on the production phase. ................................... 45 

Table 17: Number of carcasses in a disposal truck, depending on the capacity. ........................................ 45 

Table 18: Total amount of FMDv per disposal truck and growth phase ..................................................... 46 

Table 19: Selected estimated Minimum Infectious Doses (TCID50) for cattle, sheep and pigs by route of 

exposure .................................................................................................................................... 46 

Table 20: Volume of Body Fluids found in Cattle and Swine .................................................................... 48 
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Table 21: Leakage and Spillage of carcass fluids during conveyance ........................................................ 49 

Table 22: Summary of bioaerosol responses from experts. ........................................................................ 52 

Table 23: Aerosolization of virus particles during conveyance .................................................................. 53 
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Abbreviations 

APHIS Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service 

CFR Code of Federal Regulations 

DOT Department of Transportation 

EMRS Emergency Management Response System 

FAD Foreign Animal Disease 

FADD Foreign Animal Disease Diagnostician 

FADDL Foreign Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory 

FMD Foot and Mouth Disease 

FMDv Foot and Mouth Disease virus 

FMCSA Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration 

FSIS Food Safety Inspection Service 

NASS National Agricultural Statistics Service 

NAHEMS National Animal Health Emergency Management System 

OIE World Organization for Animal Health, Office International des Epizooties 

US United States of America 

USDA United States Department of Agriculture 

USDA FAD PReP 

United States Department of Agriculture Foreign Animal Disease Preparedness 

and Response Plan 

VS Veterinary Services 
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Definitions 

Bio-Zip Liner 

Bio-containment bags which are constructed of a thermally-bonded layering of 

polypropylene and featuring an industrial zippering system, The Bio-Zip

Sealable Liners fit securely inside industrial roll-off containers, trailers or truck 

racks from 10 to 40 cubic yards in total volume. They are used to manage large 

volume biological and organic waste streams and the associated odor, leakage, 

disease and environmental contamination issues. Disclaimer: The document is 

not endorsing the product of a specific vendor, but merely used the data on this 

product as an example.

Carcass The body of an animal that has died or been killed, and is not being slaughtered 

for human or animal consumption. 

Collecting station 

An establishment where carcasses may be placed for temporary holding until 

loaded on trucks. 

Confirmed positive case (of FMD) 

An animal with clinical signs consistent with FMD and from which FMDv is 

isolated and identified in a USDA laboratory or other laboratory designated by the 

Secretary of Agriculture. 

Control Area Consists of an infected zone and a buffer zone. Initially, the entire State, 

Commonwealth, Tribal Nation, or territory may be declared a control area and 

subject to movement restrictions until appropriate surveillance and 

epidemiological evidence has been evaluated and the extent of the outbreak is 

known. 

Decomposition 

The process by which organic substances are broken down into simpler forms of 

matter 

Dump Truck A standard dump truck is equipped with an open-box bed, which is hinged at the 

rear and equipped with hydraulic pistons to lift the front, allowing the material in 
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the bed to be deposited on the ground behind the truck at the site of delivery. The 

truck does not have a sealed tailgate. 

Fomites Inanimate objects that, when contaminated with a viable disease agent, can serve 

as a source of infection for a susceptible host. 

Grapple A hydro-mechanical device able to rotate on an axis with a clamshell or bucket 

attached at the end of the boom, which is intended for the collection of large 

items, in this case carcasses 

Hazardous Material 

A substance or material that the Secretary of Transportation has determined is 

capable of posing an unreasonable risk to health, safety, and property when 

transported in commerce, and has designated as hazardous under section 5103 of 

Federal hazardous materials transportation law (49 U.S.C. 5103). The term 

includes hazardous substances, hazardous wastes, marine pollutants, elevated 

temperature materials, materials designated as hazardous in the Hazardous 

Materials Table of 49 CFR 172.101), and materials that meet the defining criteria 

for hazard classes and divisions in part 173 of subchapter C of this chapter. 

Herd The population of animals at defined premises. 

Incubation period 

The known or assumed period between the introduction of a pathogen into a 

susceptible animal and the occurrence of the first clinical signs of the disease; the 

OIE standard for FMD is 14 days. 

ID50 Infectious Dose 50; amount of pathogen measured as number of colony forming 

units (CFU) for bacteria or number of virus particles required to infect 50% of 

exposed individuals. 

Index premises 

The first premises known to have a case of FMD during the outbreak under 

investigation. The true index premises are the premises with the first actual case 

in an outbreak; it is often not definitively determined. 

Infected premises 
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Premises where a presumptive positive case or confirmed positive case exists 

based on laboratory results, compatible clinical signs, case definition, and 

international standards 

Leakage The body fluids that have the potential to leak from the intact carcass postmortem. These include feces, urine, stomach/rumen contents, blood, saliva, and 

milk spillage 

Leachate Liquid that is produced by the decomposition of livestock carcasses and seeps 

from the carcasses. 

Leak-Proof Liner 

A temporary durable sheet lining (made of plastic, vinyl, etc.) placed in the 

container of the truck and used to protect the bed and sidewalls of the cargo space 

of truck trailers 

PFU Plaque-forming unit; used in virology studies to estimate the quantity of viral 

particles present in a sample based on the number of plaques formed per unit 

volume. 

Premises A location where livestock are raised, housed, or pass through during commerce. 

Rendering truck 

Tractor-trailer truck with detachable trailer box and a leak-proof tailgate 

specifically designed for rendering. Trailer specifications can vary in length from 

26 to 40 feet (most common are 28, 32 and 40 feet) with standard width of 8 feet 

and height of 12 feet. 

Roll-Off Truck 

Tractor-trailer truck with detachable box trailer which is able to be removed from 

the trailer component. They are characterized by a rectangular footprint, utilizing 

wheels to facilitate rolling the trailer in place. The open top container is designed 

to be transported by special roll-off trucks. As the roll-off truck raises its 

hydraulically operated bed, the roll-off container rolls off of the bed. A cable is 

used to slowly lower the container. These can operate on a winch system or a 

hook-lift system. 
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Saprophytic decomposition/putrefaction 

One of the stages of decomposition, produced mainly by the action of bacterial 

enzymes, mostly anaerobic organisms derived from the gastrointestinal tract, 

causing hemolysis, disintegration of tissue, and gas formation in blood vessels 

and tissue spaces. 

Stamping out 

Depopulation of clinically affected and all presumed exposed susceptible animals. 

Spillage Seeping of carcass fluids from the carcass to the truck and then to the 

environment. 

Tarp A sheet of material, such as waterproofed canvas, vinyl coated polyester mesh, 

etc. which is used to cover the open trailer to protect contents from visibility or 

ejection of material. 

TCID50 Tissue Culture Infective Dose 50; amount of a pathogen measured as number of 

virus particles required to produce pathological change in 50% of cell cultures 

inoculated, expressed as TCID50/mL. 

Truck A vehicle or conveyance used for the transportation of carcasses. 

Stages of disease: 

Infected Includes all stages of disease (L+I+C): latent (L), pre-clinically infected (I) and 

clinically infected (C). 

Viremic Active virus circulating in the bloodstream. Susceptible species can be viremic 

and shedding virus before they develop clinical signs. Includes the pre-clinical (I) 

and clinical (C) stages of disease in this risk assessment. 

Incubation period 

Time from exposure to the development of clinical signs. 

Pre-clinically infected stage (I) 

Animal is viremic, is shedding virus, but does not have clinical signs. These 

animals represent the highest risk for spread of virus. 
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Clinically infected stage (C) 

Animal is viremic, shedding virus and is exhibiting clinical signs of disease. 

Latent (L) Susceptible animal that has been exposed and is incubating the virus, but is not 

viremic. 

Recovered (R) 

No longer infected with the virus. 

Susceptible (S) 

Healthy animal likely to be exposed to the virus. 
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Executive Summary

The present risk assessment proactively evaluated the risk of infecting susceptible livestock by 

the movement of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) infected carcasses (swine and cattle) from 

FMD infected premises. The risk assessment evaluated the most up to date available science and 

solicited opinion from experts when data was lacking. This risk assessment is proactive in nature 

and the scenarios, pathways and depopulation practices assessed were based on the current 

practices and regulations applicable during an animal disease outbreak in the US. The 

characteristics, types of conveyance methods, and equipment used to transport the infected 

carcasses were provided from expert opinion and verified through site visits. Different modeling 

techniques were used to estimate the number of infected animals during a FMD outbreak at 

various time intervals, the total time estimated from infection to depopulation and the total 

amount of FMD virus (FMDv) contained in a disposal truck. The main outcomes of the risk 

assessment should be reviewed if needed as new data becomes available in the future. 

Risk estimation: The risk of FMD infection of susceptible livestock associated with the 

movement of swine and cattle carcasses from FMD infected premises to a disposal site during a 

FMD outbreak in the United States is negligible when using a standard rendering truck (tailgate 

sealed and tarp cover) and a Bio-Zip bag, and between negligible and low when using a 

standard rendering truck or a roll-off /dump truck with a Bio-Zip bag. The risk level in other 

scenarios (uncovered standard rendering trucks, uncovered roll-off/dump trucks, covered rolloff/dump trucks and a liner) is between moderate and high. 

Main results: Time for FMD detection was estimated by a disease spread model to be between 

4-10 days for swine and beef cattle and 3-9 days for dairy cattle premises of different sizes. Total 

time from infection to depopulation (including detection and confirmation) for the first FMD 

infected case was estimated to be between 10-15 days for swine, 8-12 days for dairy and 10-14 

days for beef cattle premises. Total time estimated for subsequent FMD cases was between 7-12 

days for swine, 6-9 for dairy and 8-11 days for beef cattle premises. Most of the animals (>65% 

for the first case and >81% for subsequent cases) were viremic at the time of depopulation. The 

average concentration of FMDv in a carcass in experimental inoculation studies was 103

 PlaqueForming Unit per gram (PFU/g) for a pig carcass and 106

 PFU/g for a cattle carcass. The total 

amount of infected carcasses moved to the disposal site (relative to the size of the animal carcass 

and the capacity of the truck trailer) was between 23-390 cattle carcasses and 117-780 pig 

carcasses per truck. Any small amount of body fluids (1 mL) would contain virus that is equal 

and greatly exceeds the infective dose by oral and inhalation route for pigs and cattle. The 

likelihood that swine and cattle carcasses moved from FMD positive premises will contain an 

infective dose was high. The use of a Bio-Zip bag in a standard rendering truck (tailgate sealed 

and tarp cover) reduces the likelihood of leakage, spillage and aerosolization to negligible.
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1. Background

This risk assessment was performed by the University of Minnesota’s Center for Animal Health 

and Food Safety to proactively evaluate the risk of moving swine and cattle carcasses to an 

offsite disposal location, from a Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) confirmed positive premises 

during a FMD outbreak in the United States (US), as it relates to potential spread to susceptible 

livestock. 

In the event of a FMD outbreak in the US, Local, State and Federal authorities will implement a 

foreign animal disease emergency response as described in the USDA Animal and Plant Health 

Inspection Service (APHIS) Framework for Foreign Animal Disease Preparedness and Response 

Plan (USDA FAD PReP). This response includes a control and eradication strategy that will 

utilize depopulation, quarantine, vaccination, and movement control measures applied 

throughout the swine and cattle industry. If depopulation is utilized, due to the large amount of 

biomass from carcasses and potential limitations on the premises of origin for disposal, there 

may be a need to transport carcasses offsite for disposal. This movement has the potential to 

result in virus spread to other uninfected premises and susceptible livestock. 

Risk assessment in the animal health context comprises a framework that uses a tool set and 

available scientific information to assess the situational level of risk to the health of an animal 

population and the potential consequences. Completing this type of risk assessment in a timely 

manner during an outbreak is typically impractical. Risk assessment conducted proactively, 

before an outbreak occurs, provides the framework necessary for decision makers to identify the 

risk pathways for disease transmission. They are thus equipped to quickly assess the 

effectiveness of the current practices, preventive measures and additional mitigation measures, if 

needed, as they pertain to the risk associated with the movement of an agricultural commodity.
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2. Scope

The purpose of this risk assessment is to determine the risk of FMDv infection of susceptible 

livestock associated with the movement of swine and cattle carcasses from a FMD-infected 

premise to an off-site disposal facility during a FMD outbreak in the United States. The risk 

evaluation is based on the likelihood of FMDv being present in the carcasses at the time of 

transportation and the likelihood their movement could serve as a source of infection for 

susceptible livestock. The risk assessment evaluates the likelihood that: 1) the swine and cattle 

carcasses from a FMD-infected premises will contain an infective FMDv dose after completion 

of euthanasia; 2) FMDv could be released into the environment from the carcasses through postmortem leakage of infected body fluids and/or aerosolization of infectious particles from the 

body fluids; and 3) susceptible livestock will be infected by FMDv during the transportation of 

carcasses from the infected premises to the disposal site. 

The primary mode of transportation evaluated for carcass movement from the FMD-infected 

premises of origin directly to a disposal site is a rendering truck. This is defined as a tractortrailer truck equipped with a box trailer (lengths of 28 ft, 32 ft, or 40 ft) that has a sealed, leakproof tailgate and is open on the top. The second type of truck that will be considered in this risk 

assessment is the roll-off truck. This truck has a removable open-top, box trailer that is fitted 

onto a rectangular footprint and utilizes wheels to facilitate rolling the trailer into place. The 

third type of truck that will be considered is the dump truck. A standard dump truck is equipped 

with an open-box bed, which is hinged at the rear and equipped with hydraulic pistons to lift the 

front, allowing the material in the bed to be deposited on the ground behind the truck at the site 

of delivery. The standard rendering truck, roll-off and dump truck will be considered with and 

without the following mitigations (one or in combination) that can be used in conjunction with 

the standard trailer: 

1) Tarp covering

2) Bio-Zip, leak-proof carcass bags

3) Leak-proof liner (only for roll-off and dump trucks)

For each of the transportation modes, the following release and exposure pathways were 

addressed: 

 Cross-contamination of trucks, personnel and equipment from carcass fluids

contaminated with FMDv escaping from the conveyance.

 Aerosol transmission of FMDv particles escaping from the conveyance.
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3. Assumptions

A conservative approach using the “worst-case” scenario was used in this risk assessment. 

Literature data on FMDv concentration in swine and cattle carcass tissues consider animals 

artificially inoculated with FMDv at high concentrations, which may not represent the reality of 

a naturally occurring outbreak. 

This risk assessment takes into consideration all applicable regulations, including preventive 

measures already in place, as well as additional preventive measures that could be implemented 

during an outbreak. This assessment is proactive in nature and cannot address the specific 

circumstances surrounding an outbreak in detail. Therefore, we are making some assumptions to 

establish context and applicability. These assumptions are: 

 A FMD outbreak in the United States in the commercial pig and/or cattle (beef or dairy)

population has occurred.

 A swine or cattle farm has been confirmed as a FMD-infected premises and a specific

euthanasia protocol has been established as the depopulation method.

 All animals in the infected premises will be euthanized and moved to disposal offsite as

intact carcasses.

 All disposal options have been predetermined so that the time to locate is not part of the

delay of the disposal.

 Time to complete indemnity was not included in the estimation of total time from

infection to depopulation due to the assumption that this is not a time limiting step.

 The movement considered will be from one infected premises directly to the disposal site,

without any subsequent stops along the route.

 The same trucks, personnel and/or equipment will not be shared among multiple infected

premises without complete cleaning and disinfection.

 Carcasses will be moved immediately after euthanasia, so environmental factors

(temperature, pH) will not have an effect on FMDv concentration in the carcass.

 Post-mortem autolysis will occur, and there will be some leakage of fluids from the intact

carcasses. As fresh carcasses will be moved immediately after euthanasia, there will be

little saprophytic decomposition/putrefaction. We assume minimal rigor mortis at the

onset of loading due to the short time between euthanasia and carcass loading.

 The tarp (roll-off or drawn down) will be appropriately cleaned and disinfected prior to

each load and following each unloading or there will be a new tarp utilized for each trip.

 Options and mitigations evaluated were provided to the risk assessment team and were

evaluated for their impact on the risk pathways. They were not evaluated for their

functionality. We assume all mitigations considered (e.g. Bio-Zip bag, liner, tarp,
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equipment, cleaning and disinfection procedures) will function appropriately and/or be 

performed according to their specifications. 

 The exterior surfaces of trucks and tires will be cleaned and disinfected prior to leaving

the infected premises, as well as at disposal area following drop off, and will follow

accepted procedures outlined in the USDA APHIS FAD Prep Guidance (USDA FAD

PReP)

 Wildlife population pathways will not be considered in this risk assessment.

 Roads taken by the disposal trucks will be shared with the open traffic.

 All vehicles will be in compliance with federal and applicable state Department of

Transportation (DOT) regulations and APHIS carcass transportation regulations,

including that all vehicles used in transportation of carcasses will be leak-proof.

 The driver of the carcass truck will not come into contact with any carcasses or infected

equipment while on the infected premises, the carcass loading area or the carcass

unloading areas at the disposal site.

4. Overview of data analysis approaches

Risk Assessment Overview 

This risk assessment is based on the OIE guidelines and methodology for import risk analysis 

with some modifications (OIE, 2004). The OIE model is comprised of hazard identification and 

three steps within a risk assessment: 1) entry assessment (release of virus to the environment 

through the carcasses); 2) exposure assessment (exposure of susceptible animals); and 3) risk 

evaluation (considers the entry and exposure assessments to provide the overall risk estimation). 

The emphasis of this risk assessment is the release of FMDv associated with the movement of 

swine and cattle carcasses from a FMD positive premises and exposure of susceptible livestock. 

If the entry assessment demonstrates a negligible likelihood of the carcass being contaminated 

with FMDv, the risk assessment may be concluded. However, if the risk is estimated to be 

greater than negligible, the next step in the risk assessment is the exposure assessment, which 

would assess the likelihood that susceptible animals will be infected by FMDv through the 

movement of carcasses from FMD positive premises. 

As recommended by the OIE, the risk analysis process is described as follows: 

 Hazard identification is the process of identifying and understanding the biology and

epidemiology of FMD and FMDv to determine whether the agent is a hazard under specified

situations.

 Entry assessment determines the likelihood of an agricultural commodity (e.g. carcass) being

infected or contaminated with a hazard (e.g. FMDv) and describes the biological pathways
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necessary for that hazard to be introduced into a particular environment with susceptible 

livestock. It includes an estimation of the likelihood (i.e. qualitative or quantitative) of each 

of the pathways. 

 Exposure assessment describes the biological pathway(s) necessary for exposure of animals

to the identified hazard (e.g. FMDv) and estimates the likelihood of those exposures

occurring.

 Risk estimation consists of integrating the results from the entry and exposure assessments to

produce summary measures of the risk associated with the identified hazard.

Likelihood and risk evaluation 

The likelihood for each pathway was assessed and categorized using the descriptive scale in 

Table 1 below: 

Table 1: Descriptive scale to estimate the likelihood for an event to occur 

Likelihood Descriptive Definition

High The event is very likely to occur 

Moderate The event is unlikely but does occur with a certain 

probability 

Low The event is unlikely to occur 

Negligible The likelihood that the event will occur is 

insignificant, not worth considering 

The risk estimation was based on the summarization of the likelihoods for each pathway in the 

entry and exposure assessments. 

Uncertainty estimation 

The uncertainty of the likelihood/risk estimation was assessed by using a range within the 

descriptive definitions in Table 1. When uncertainty about the estimation was low (the estimation 

was somewhat certain), only one descriptive definition was used to estimate the likelihood/risk 

(e.g., low, high). When the uncertainty on the estimation was moderate or high the descriptive 

definition used to estimate the likelihood/risk was within a range (e.g., between moderate and 

high), the range being broader as the uncertainty about the estimation was higher. 

Modeling Overview 

A within herd stochastic disease spread model was applied to simulate the transmission of 

FMDv within a group and estimate the number of pigs, dairy cattle and beef cattle in various 

disease states at each time period. The disease states include: susceptible (S), latent (L), preclinically infectious (PI), clinically infectious (CI) and recovered (R) (Carpenter TE, 2004). 
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Estimates of animal level disease stage durations (latent, preclinical, clinical, and recovered) 

were obtained from recently developed parameters used in the NAADSM (North American 

Animal Disease Spread Model) (USDA, 2012).The main outputs of the model were time for 

detection at different farm size scenarios and to simulate the number of viremic (pre-clinically 

and clinically infectious) and recovered animals that would be moved to the disposal site. 

The model updates the number of animals in each disease state every 6 hours, which increases 

the accuracy of detection. The uncertainties in input variables, as well as the inherent variability 

associated with the course of infection in individual populations and the spread within the group, 

are considered in the model. Appendix A: Model Disease Spread presents the assumptions, 

definitions and background information used in the disease transmission model. 

The detection module of the disease spread model estimates the time to detect FMD infection in 

the group based on heightened active observational surveillance for clinical signs, one of the 

mitigation measures that may be applied in an outbreak at the herd level. The model “checks” or 

applies specific detection mechanisms at user specified time steps (e.g., every day or twice per 

day). FMDv infection may be detected in a time period based on the specific detection 

mechanism and the number of clinically infectious animals. 

Inputs for the disease spread model in the form of probability distributions for each disease state 

(latent, pre-clinical and clinical) for the transmission of FMDv within swine, dairy and beef 

cattle populations were obtained from an APHIS study where data from different FMD studies 

were analyzed by meta-analysis to estimate the probability distributions ((USDA 2012); (USDA, 

APHIS, NAHMS, 2012)).

5. FMD Depopulation Procedures and Carcass Movement

5.1.Standard Operating Procedures for FMD Depopulation

In infected premises that are being depopulated, the goals are to prevent contact between FMDv 

and susceptible animals, as well as to stop the production of FMDv in exposed or infected 

animals. The response strategy of stamping out infected premises is being considered in this risk 

assessment. This would be the case for an outbreak that is contained in jurisdictional areas in 

which FMD can be readily contained and further spread is unlikely. Stamping out is the 

preferred depopulation method for clinically infected and in-contact susceptible animals as a 

means to reduce the potential of disease spread. For purposes of this risk assessment, we assume 

the depopulation procedures will follow the USDA FAD PreP Guidance (USDA FAD PReP). 
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The standard operating procedures during depopulation are that the driver arrives at the site with 

the vehicle and makes contact with the officials/on-site command at the infected site. Many 

rendering industries utilize rendering trucks that are equipped with their own carcass lift arms 

and clam buckets (grapple systems) (Figure 1). These can be operated by the driver and 

although may need to leave the truck cabin to operate the lift, the driver will not step foot on the 

ground, nor have any contact with the carcasses. 

Figure 1: Standard Rendering Truck with Grapple System 

Image courtesy of Redwood Metal Works (http://redwoodmetalworks.com/)

Figure 2: Grapple truck with dump trailer.

Image courtesy of Mid-Atlantic Waste Systems (http://www.mawaste.com/mobile.html) 
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In cases where a forklift or front-end loader is used to lift an entire dump container and empty its 

contents into the trailer, an on-site operator (not the truck driver) would operate that machinery. 

If applicable, the driver would then cover the trailer using the roller tarp, operated from the front 

of the trailer (Figure 2). 

During an outbreak, it is assumed that the driver never leaves the vehicle while on the infected 

premises (loading area). If duties cannot be performed by the driver from the cabin or platforms 

of the vehicle and would require the driver to be on the ground, personnel on the ground will 

load the vehicle and pull the tarp over the container. This tarp would be drawn tight in order to 

reduce air flow (although it still would not be 100% air-tight). In the US, it is required for trucks 

to be leak-proof while hauling animal carcasses (see 9 CFR 325.21 - Means of conveyance in 

which dead, dying, disabled, or diseased livestock and parts of carcasses thereof shall be 

transported (Code of Federal Regulations and Federal Register). 

For purposes of this risk assessment, the assumption is that euthanasia would take place only 

when there is a dedicated destination for the carcass disposal. This means that euthanasia will 

take place within a matter of minutes to hours prior to the carcasses being transported to the 

destination. The time limiting factor in a depopulation scheme is disposal rate, especially for 

large operations where burial on site is not an option. Storage of carcasses creates another set of 

problems for landfills, rendering, and hauling (more liquids) unless chilled. Therefore, 

simultaneous euthanasia and disposal will be the operational plan considered for this risk 

assessment. 

Estimates for depopulation rates and timing for depopulation procedures are not available in the 

literature. Expert opinion was thus solicited for euthanasia and depopulation times. Experts in 

the field were contacted to provide their input on starting times for euthanasia for: 1) FMD 

Index premises, 2) subsequent FMD-infected premises, and 3) most likely depopulations rates 

for both swine and cattle (head/hour). A range (minimum, most likely, and maximum) was 

requested for each of the times and rates. See Appendix E: Expert Opinion – Depopulation for 

more information. These data are summarized in the table below. 

Table 2: Expert opinion on time to euthanasia and euthanasia time*

Expert Time to start depopulation 

(h)**

Depopulation time (head/hour)*** 

1 Min: 24 

Most likely: 48-96 

Max: 72-168 

Min: 30 

Most likely: 50 

Max: 75 

2 Min: 12 

Most likely: 48 

Max: 72 

Min: 4*3 crews=12 (cattle) 

20*3 crews=60 (swine) 

Most likely: 8*3 crews=24 (cattle) 

160*3 crews=480 (swine) 
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Max: 300*3 crews=900 (swine) 

3 Min: 12 

Most likely: 24 

Max: 48 

Min: 6*3 crews=18 

Most likely: 12*3 crews=36 

Max: 20*3 crews=60 

4 Min: 24 

Most likely: 

Max: 48 

- 

5 Min: 36 

Max: 60 

Cash pistol-grip captive bolt: 30 

CO2 gassing roll-off trailers: 140 

Mobile electrocution trailer: 600 

Maximum rendering capacity: 167 

*: Assuming the outbreak is localized, and all the resources are available. 

**: Using the longest time when a range was provided. 

***: Using 3 eight men crews (20 h +4 h cleaning), 2 ten cow side discharge alleys and 2 

loaders

Time to transport the depopulation equipment and to set-up for the depopulation is a likely range 

of 24 to 48 hours. The time required to move animals into position for depopulation should also 

be taken into consideration. Once equipment and animals are in position and the depopulation 

procedures are ready to begin, the next time-limiting factor is the speed of the depopulation 

technology chosen. Table 3 below shows several of these technologies and their estimated 

speed. 

Table 3: Expert opinion on depopulation technology time efficiency

Depopulation Technology Time Efficiency 

On farm mobile electrocution trailer 

(construction in progress) 

Limit is estimated to be 600 feeder pigs/h 

(more time for sows and boars; not practical for iso-weans) 

On farm cash pistol-grip captive bolt Estimate is 30 head/h depending on the experience of the 

operator and their tolerance 

On farm CO2 gassing of swine in roll-off 

trailers or constructed chambers 

Dependent upon the size of the chamber or trailer, and size 

of animal, to determine batch size. It usually will take 

about 15 minutes for the euthanasia process for each batch. 

Transport to slaughter plant but divert 

line to disposal rather than processing 

Estimate is the line speed of the plant whether using 

CO2/bolt or electric paddles* 

* This option is not likely applicable to the situation being evaluated in this assessment, unless

the premise is a slaughter facility.

Assuming the outbreak is localized and all resources for depopulation are available, in larger 

premises and feeder premises the process to completely depopulate the premises may be slowed 

due to disposal and indemnity issues. Depopulation efforts must be directly linked to the rate of 
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disposal. The speed of euthanasia should not exceed the disposal rate. The disposal rate may be 

increased either through contracting multiple disposal options. 

5.2.Types of Transportation 

This risk assessment addresses mass depopulation at the infected premises site, with subsequent 

removal of carcasses from the infected premises using a standard rendering truck as conveyance. 

As defined for this risk assessment, the standard rendering truck is a tractor-trailer that is used to 

haul carcasses. This is a tractor-trailer truck (semi-truck) with an attached box trailer. The box 

trailers are constructed of aluminum, smooth wall panels or stakes and sheets of aluminum or 

steel. The trailers have a one-piece lift-off hinged doors or side swing tailgates, both of which 

are sealed and leak-proof, as required by federal law (9 CFR 325.21, Code of Federal 

Regulations and Federal Register). Standard trailers are 96 inches wide, with side heights of 5 ft 

or 6 ft smooth wall, double panel. The trailer lengths vary from 26 ft to 40 ft. and may be doubleor triple axel. The most commonly used lengths in rendering industry practices are the 28, 32 and 

40 ft trailers, which can haul 40000, 45000, and 50000 lbs., respectively. 

Figure 3: Standard Rendering Truck and Trailer 

Image courtesy of Walinga (http://www.walinga.com/index.php?id=223) 
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Figure 4: Example of a tarp drawn tight over a trailer. 

Image courtesy of SolHuTech (http://www.solhutec.com/trucktarps.html) 

Another option to the open-top trailer of the standard rendering truck is a trailer that is equipped 

with tarps systems. Tarps can be built in sizes that can accommodate dump trucks, roll off 

containers, dumpsters, and open top containers. Tarp cover systems can be constructed from 

range of materials including mesh, PVC or vinyl. In addition, tarp systems can come in a variety 

of formats including a sliding cable system, flip tarp system, rolling system, and solid waste tarps 

(tie-down system). Utilization of a tarp system is standard practice in states where law mandates 

that the top of the trailer be covered during carcass transportation to prevent leakage. Although 

the tarp reduces airflow, it is not airtight, and air will still flow over the carcasses. The tarp also 

helps to control scavengers. Other options are to have the trailer built with manual, air or 

hydraulic cylinder control lids, which tend to be less common. 

For the purpose of lifting the carcasses into the trailer, trucks can be equipped with heavy duty 

hydraulic lift arms and buckets. Many farms will have a ‘dump container’ that is used to hold 

routine mortalities until the render haul truck arrives. The dump container could be used in the 

case of small premises depopulation. A forklift or front-end loader can also be used to lift the 

entire container in order to dump the carcasses into the truck’s container. 

There are other secondary types of trucks that can be used to transport carcasses, such as a rolloff truck. A roll-off truck is a tractor-trailer truck with detachable open-top box container, which 

is characterized by a rectangular footprint and wheels that facilitate rolling the container into 

position. As the roll-off truck raises its hydraulically operated bed, the container rolls off, and a 

cable is used to slowly lower it. These operate on a winch or hook-lift system. 
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Figure 5: Example of a roll-off truck trailer. 

Image courtesy of Redwood Metal Works (http://redwoodmetalworks.com/)

The third type of truck trailer that will be considered in this risk assessment is the dump truck. A 

standard dump truck is equipped with an open-box bed, which is hinged at the rear and equipped 

with hydraulic pistons to lift the front, allowing the material in the bed to be deposited on the 

ground behind the truck at the site of delivery. By definition, this truck does not necessarily 

come equipped with a sealed tailgate. The roll-off and dump trucks will also be considered with 

and without a leak-proof liner, as some may not contain a sealed leak-proof tailgate. 

Figure 6: Example of a dump truck trailer. 

Image courtesy of Walinga (http://walinga.com/index.php?id=1741)

Each of these types of trucks has certain advantages and disadvantages. The decision to utilize 

the standard rendering truck as the primary form of conveyance is based on industry standard 

practices and the availability of equipment in the event of a FMD outbreak with mass animal 

depopulation. The standard rendering truck, roll-off and dump truck will be considered both 
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with and without the following mitigations that can be used in conjunction with the trailer: 1) 

Tarp covering, and 2) Bio-Zip, leak-proof carcass bags (Appendix B: Bio-Zip Bags product 

information). Bio-Zip liners can be used to manage large volume biological waste streams, 

leakage and environmental contamination issues. The bags are constructed of coated layers of 

polypropylene-based material fitted with an industrial grade zippered sealing system. The BioZip material is 100% solids and contains no hazardous air pollutants. It has a zero rating for 

health, fire and reactivity and is zero class flammability. The Bio-Zip sealable liners fit 

securely inside industrial roll-off containers, trailers or truck racks from 10 to 40 cubic yards in 

total volume. Bags are placed in the trailer and filled on premises with infected carcasses. The 

entire bag is then removed from the trailer at the disposal site and disposed of. Bio-Zip bags 

meet US regulations for land fillable materials. 

By determining the likelihood of leakage with the standard rendering truck and various 

mitigations, the assessment can be extrapolated to the other types of trucks with and without 

mitigations as well. 

5.3.Transportation Regulations 

Transportation of carcasses is well-regulated in federal, state and local jurisdictions. Although it 

can be inferred from rules and known standards for carcass transport, there are no specific 

governing regulations for movement of high numbers of carcasses, such as in a disease outbreak 

situation. For purposes of this risk assessment, the assumption is that all conveyance of 

carcasses during the depopulation procedure of a FMD infected premises will follow federal 

regulations for carcass movement (9 CFR 325.21, Code of Federal Regulations and Federal 

Register). This section states that “All vehicles and other means of conveyance used by persons 

subject to 9 CFR 325.20 for transporting in commerce or importing, any dead, dying, disabled, 

and diseased livestock or parts of carcasses of livestock that died otherwise than by slaughter 

shall be leak-proof and so constructed and equipped as to permit thorough cleaning and 

sanitizing.” 

Table 4: Federal Regulations Addressing Transportation of Carcass 

Federal Regulation Addresses 

9 CFR 325.21 Means of conveyance in which dead, dying, disabled, or diseased 

livestock and parts of carcasses thereof shall be transported. 

9 CFR 325.20 Transportation and other transactions concerning dead, dying, 

disabled, or diseased livestock, and parts of carcasses of livestock 

that died otherwise than by slaughter. 
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For the case of a mass depopulation, we assume that the federal transportation regulations are 

followed as the minimum standard for all states. It is assumed that all rendering vehicles used in 

depopulation transportation efforts will be leak-proof. Rendering vehicles are required to be 

leak-proof but not airtight. States have additional regulations for carcass transportation that vary 

somewhat from state to state. Most states require that the carcass transportation trucks be 

licensed and permitted, and pass annual vehicle inspections. Some states also have specific 

requirements as to the timing of cleaning and disinfection of vehicles. This risk assessment 

assumes the state of origin of carcasses and state of disposal site carcass transportation and 

disposal statutes will be followed (Appendix C: Federal and State Regulations for Carcass 

Movement). 

5.4.Pathway analysis for Carcass Movement 

Figures 7 and 8 show the series of events and pathways by which susceptible species may be 

infected via the movement of FMD infected carcasses from an infected farm. Two main release 

and exposure pathways are assessed in the current risk assessment: 1) leakage of contaminated 

body fluids from the rendering truck and cross-contamination with other trucks, personnel or 

equipment that will be in contact with susceptible livestock in other uninfected farms (Figure 7 

and Figure 8 A); 2) aerosolization of FMDv particles from the carcasses during movement and 

subsequent air transportation of those particles to uninfected farms with susceptible species 

(Figure 7 and Figure 8 B). 

Figure 7: Series of events to expose susceptible species to FMDv through the movement of 

infected carcasses. 

Infected

farm

Infected

animals

Viremic

Virus

concentration

in carcass

Movement

to the

diposal site

Leakage Cross‐

contamination

Aerosolization Air transportation

Recovered

Non‐

infected

animals
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8A

8B

Figure 8: Aerosol (A) and cross-contamination (B) pathways for the exposure of susceptible 

species to FMDv through the transportation of infected carcasses.

6. Hazard identification

6.1.Background

Foot and mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting primarily clovenhoofed animals. The disease is characterized by the development of vesicles in and around the 

mouth and on the feet. Although natural FMD infection rarely causes the death of mature 

animals, the disease results in decreases in livestock productivity and causes serious economic 

impact on international trade of animals and animal products (OIE Technical Disease Cards) 

FMD was last reported in the U.S. in 1929 and in North America in 1952 (Canada) and 1954 

(Mexico). As of May 2012, of the OIE’s 178 Member Countries, 102 do not have FMD-free 

status, 66 are recognized as officially free (65 without vaccination and one with vaccination), and 

ten have officially free zones (6 without vaccination and 4 having zones with or without 
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vaccination). Out of the 102 countries without FMD-free status, 6 had an official status that is 

currently suspended (current FMD status can be found at www.oie.int.gov). There is substantial 

concern about incursions of this disease into the U.S., because of the unexpected occurrence of 

FMD outbreaks in previously FMD-free countries, including Taiwan (1997, 2000); Japan (2010, 

2000); South Korea (2010, 2000, 2002); North Korea (2007); South Africa (2000, 2006, 2007); 

Argentina (2001, 2006); Russia (2006, 2007) and Europe (2001). The potential risks and impacts 

that FMD may pose were demonstrated by the severe economic and livestock losses experienced 

in the United Kingdom in 2001. The historical consequences of these FMD outbreaks has 

reinforced the need for FMD awareness and evaluation of the possible pathways by which FMDv 

can spread and infect livestock and contaminate food sources, and how these can serve as a 

further route for spread of the virus (USDA FAD PReP, 2013). 

6.2.Virus Characteristics 

There are seven FMDv serotypes: A, O, C, SAT 1, SAT 2, SAT 3 and Asia 1. Each serotype can 

be divided further into subtypes. Serotypes A, O, C, SAT1, SAT2, SAT3, and Asia1 contain 32, 

11, 5, 3, 6, 3, and 4 subtypes, respectively. All serotypes produce disease that is clinically 

indistinguishable, but immunologically distinct. No cross-immunity is conferred between 

serotypes. Serotype O is the most prevalent and occurs in many parts of the world. Within each 

serotype is a spectrum of antigenic variation, resulting in strains having close or distant 

relationships to each other. Serotype A has the greatest antigenic variation ((Kitching RP, 1989); 

(Kitching RP, 1998); (Alexandersen S, 2005)). 

6.3.Host range of FMD 

Cloven-hoofed animals (ungulates) are the natural domestic and wild hosts of FMDv. They are 

susceptible to all 7 serotypes and many of the subtypes of FMDv. The severity of illness may 

differ depending on the specific serotype and the species that is affected. Susceptible species 

include cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, water buffalo, impala, bison, African buffalo, American Bison 

antelope, reindeer, moose, elk (although low), hedgehogs, porcupines, giraffes, elephants and 

Bactrian camels. Horses are resistant to FMD infection. New World camelids (llamas, alpacas, 

vicunas and guanacos) have low susceptibility to FMD infection. FMDv may also be transmitted 

to mice, rats, guinea-pigs, rabbits, hamsters, embryonating chicken eggs, chickens and various 

wild species, including European hedgehogs, chinchillas, muskrats, armadillos and peccaries. 

However, these latter species are not generally capable of spreading FMD (Alexandersen S, 

2005). 
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Humans can become infected with FMD through (1) handling of diseased livestock with virus 

entry through skin wounds and mucous membranes, (2) exposure through laboratory situations, 

or (3) by drinking infected milk. The virus is not readily transmissible to humans and thus should 

not be considered a zoonotic disease. (OIE, 2008) Cases of human disease are rare and have 

resulted in temporary and mild signs of disease (fever, vesicles on the hands, feet or in the 

mouth) (Alexandersen S, 2005). In contrast, Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease (HFMD) in humans 

is an unrelated viral disease that primarily affects infants and children. The human disease is 

often confused with FMD of livestock. 

6.4.Transmission

FMDv is highly contagious, and can be transmitted by a variety of mechanisms. When infected 

and susceptible animals are in close proximity, the airborne transfer of droplets is the most 

common mode of transmission. Other common mechanisms by which FMDv is spread are 

summarized below ((Alexandersen S, 2003b); (Alexandersen S, 2005)). 

 Direct contact with infected animals and movement of animals between premises.

 Contact with secretions from shedding animals─ exposure to secretions or mechanical

transfer between groups by fomites (hands, footwear, clothing, vehicles, and equipment)

and subsequent virus entry through cuts or abrasions in the skin or mucosa.

 Ingestion of FMDv contaminated animal products (meat) by pigs through swill feeding.

 Spread by wind, an uncommon event that requires the simultaneous occurrence of

particular epidemiological and climatic conditions.

6.5. Incubation Period 

The incubation period of an infectious disease is the time interval between exposure to an 

infective dose and development of clinical signs. The incubation period for FMD is known to be 

variable and dependent on the strain and dose of the virus, the route of transmission, the 

husbandry situation, and the species (Alexandersen S, 2003a). It is well known that FMD 

infected animals can shed virus during the incubation period, before the first detectable clinical 

signs are noted ((Orsel K, 2009); (Alexandersen S, 2001)). The peak of viremia can occur just 

before the animal breaks with clinical signs. 

For control purposes, the OIE uses 14 days as the incubation period of FMD ((OIE, 2008); 

(Alexandersen S, 2003b)) summarized the variability observed in the incubation period of the 

disease, which is presented below: 
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 There is a strong inverse relationship between the dose of virus and the length of the

incubation period, i.e., the higher the dose, the shorter the incubation period.

 The incubation period is usually 2-14 days, but can be as short as 24 hours.

 The latent period (animal exposed, infected and shedding the virus) is 1-2 days (Eble P,

2006). 

6.6. Clinical Signs 

Primary replication of FMDv takes place in the nasal and pharyngeal mucosa. Spread from these 

primary sites occurs to lymph nodes and the bloodstream, and resultant viremia distributes the 

virus to all organs and tissues. Viremia can commence a few hours after infection, and usually 

within 36 hours post-infection. Further replication of virus occurs in permissive cells and 

particularly at sites where characteristic lesions of FMD develop (Alexandersen S, 2001). The 

appearance of vesicles usually coincides with the peak of viremia and the highest concentration 

of virus is in tissues where the vesicles develop. 

FMD in pigs is clinically indistinguishable from other viral vesicular diseases of swine (swine 

vesicular disease, vesicular stomatitis, vesicular exanthema) (Alexandersen S, 2001). It is 

usually severe and is characterized by lameness, reduced feed intake, lowered production, and 

the development of vesicles in and around the mouth and feet. Affected pigs become lethargic, 

remain huddled together and develop vesicles on the coronary band and heel of the feet, snout, 

lower jaw and tongue (Kitching RP, 2002). Body temperatures in pigs usually range from 39°C 

to 40°C, but can reach 42°C. The morbidity rate varies by the species affected, virus serotype 

and/or strain, and other factors. In regions where FMD is not endemic, the morbidity rate can be 

as high as 100 percent. The mortality rate is generally very low in adult animals, but may be high 

in young animals due to acute myocarditis (Alexandersen S, 2003b). 

6.7. Concentration of virus in tissues, secretions, excretions 

FMDv is present in multiple tissues, secretions and excretions of infected animals during preclinical, clinical, and post-clinical stages. Urine and feces contain virus but in low 

concentrations. Fresh feces collected from the floor have been found to contain small 

concentrations of the virus up to 10 days post infection in pigs (Parker J, 1971). The amount of 

aerosolized virus from infected animals can vary considerably. In contrast to other animals 

affected by FMD, infected pigs are recognized as the largest producers of aerosolized virus, 

excreting virus concentrations in the range of 105.6 to 108.6 TCID50 per pig/day (Alexandersen S, 

2005). Although pigs are large aerosol producers, they are very resistant to infection by this 

route. If a large group of pigs becomes infected with an appropriate viral serotype, the group can 
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excrete large volumes of aerosolized virus, which can be transported to farms downwind and 

constitute a risk to sheep and cattle. Ruminants excrete less virus in their breath (104 to 105

TCID50/day) compared to pigs, but are highly susceptible to infection via the inhalation route 

(Alexandersen S, 2005) 

In comparison with other livestock species, cattle are the largest overall producers of FMDv 

from all secretions/body fluids combined and are probably the main source for environmental 

contamination. They produce large volumes of FMDv in the epithelium of the tongue, which 

often sloughs off during clinical disease, as well as in saliva, urine, feces and milk, in 

comparison to other species. Cattle are extremely susceptible to infection by aerosol exposure to 

virus due to their large respiratory volume and may become infected at concentrations of FMDv 

as low as 0.06 TCID50 per cubic meter of air (Donaldson AI, 2001). Survival time of FMDv postmortem depends on the stage of disease at the time of slaughter, the organs affected, and the 

strain of virus. 

6.8.Environmental Persistence 

FMDv retains infectivity for considerable periods of time in the environment, provided it is 

protected from desiccation, heat and adverse pH conditions. For example, the virus may survive 

for 14 days in dry fecal material; six months in slurry in winter; 39 days in urine; 28 days on the 

surface of soil in autumn; and three days on the surface of soil in summer. Such observations 

have generally been made in countries with a temperate climate, and these survival times can be 

expected to be much the same in hotter climates (Geering WA, 2002). FMDv is sensitive to 

desiccation. Relative humidity and temperature are the primary factors that affect survival of the 

virus in the environment. The virus survives best when the relative humidity exceeds 70%, and 

has poor survival when the relative humidity is below 50-60 (Sellers R, 1971). Sunlight and 

ultraviolet radiation have little effect on virus persistence (Donaldson AI, 1975). 

7. Entry Assessment

The entry assessment comprises the risk associated with the release of FMDv during the 

movement of swine and cattle carcasses from FMD positive premises to the disposal site. The 

release could occur by cross-contamination via contaminated body fluids escaping from the 

disposal vehicle or by transmission of FMDv by aerosolization. Each of these events was 

characterized by a pathway and, for each of the pathways, the likelihood of occurrence was 

evaluated based on available scientific information, logical assumptions and input from experts. 
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The pathways considered in the entry assessment that would result in the release of FMDv 

through swine and cattle carcasses movement were the following: 

 Likelihood that carcasses moved from FMD positive premises will contain an infective

dose. In this pathway, a disease spread model for FMD in swine, dairy and beef cattle and

expert opinion were used to estimate the total time from infection to depopulation, the

number of viremic and recovered animals, and the FMDv concentration in carcasses to be

moved after depopulation.

 Likelihood that transportation of carcasses will produce leakage and spillage of fluids

contaminated with FMDv. In this pathway, body fluid capacity of swine, dairy and beef

cattle was estimated. Characteristics of the disposal trucks were analyzed for the potential

for leakage of body fluids.

 Likelihood that transportation of carcasses will produce aerosolization of FMDv. In this

pathway, the potential for aerosolization of FMDv particles during movement of

carcasses was evaluated by using expert opinion.

7.1. Likelihood that swine and cattle carcasses moved from a FMD positive 

premise will contain an infective dose 

Summary: Time for FMD detection was estimated by a disease spread model to be between 4-

10 days for swine and beef cattle and 3-9 days for dairy cattle premises at different sizes. Total 

time from infection to depopulation (including detection and confirmation) for the first FMD 

infected case was estimated to be between 10-15 days for swine, 8-12 days for dairy and 10-14 

days for beef cattle premises. Total time estimated for subsequent FMD cases was between 7-12 

days for swine, 6-9 for dairy and 8-11 days for beef cattle premises. Most of the animals (>65% 

for the first case and >81% for subsequent cases) will be viremic at the time of depopulation. The 

average concentration of FMDv in a carcass in experimental inoculation studies was 103

 PFU/g 

for a pig carcass and 106 PFU/g for a cattle carcass. The total amount of infected carcasses 

moved to the disposal site was between 23-390 cattle carcasses and 117-780 pig carcasses per 

truck. This range was based on the weight of the animal carcass as well as the capacity of the 

truck trailer, taking into account the number of carcasses that could fit in the trailer. Any small 

amount of body fluids from the carcasses would contain virus that greatly exceeds the infective 

dose. 1 mL of body fluids could contain same amount and 10-100,000 times higher virus 

quantity (103

-106 PFU) than the minimum infectious dose by oral (1.4x104-1.4x106 PFU) and 

inhalation route (7-357 PFU) for pigs and cattle. Likelihood estimation: The likelihood that 

the disposal truck with swine and cattle carcasses moved from FMD positive premises will 

contain an infective dose is high. 
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7.1.1. Time for FMD detection 

The time for FMD detection was estimated by a stochastic disease spread model. The parameters 

used in the model for the simulation of disease spread within a group are presented in Table 5: 

Input parameters used in the FMD spread model in a swine farm.. Estimates of animal level 

disease stage duration (latent, pre-clinical, clinical and recovery) were obtained from a recent 

study completed by USDA-APHIS-CEAH (USDA, 2012) by evaluating animal level data from 

published studies involving experimental infection with FMDv. The farm sizes selection was 

based on a compilation of statistics published by the National Agricultural Statistics Service 

(NASS) of the USDA for 2007-2012. 

The surveillance component used in the model was based on observation of clinical signs and, 

using a conservative approach, was set at one time per day. The threshold for considering 

detection of the disease was set at 5% of the herd showing clinical signs. These values were 

based on expert opinion of subject matter experts regarding the average percentage of naturally 

occurring lameness on swine and cattle farms in the period of 2007 and 2009 ((USDA 2007); 

(USDA 2009)). The following components of the NAHMS survey were considered: the 

percentage of pig deaths from lameness (i.e. 5.4% for all group sizes); unusually high number of 

pigs unwilling to eat or stand up (i.e. 7.3% for all group sizes); and lame pigs with reddened 

areas above the hooves (i.e. 2.4% for all group sizes). Naturally occurring lameness is hard to 

predict, since it will be different from one producer to another, depending on the farm 

characteristics. Endemic lameness could mask the clinical signs of a FMD outbreak and has been 

reported to be less than 5% for cases of mild lameness and less than 0.5% for severe lameness 

(Dr. Peter Davies, personal communication). 

Table 5: Input parameters used in the FMD spread model in a swine farm. 

Variable a Input Distribution/Value

Latent Period Gamma (α=1.896, θ=0.869) 

Pre-clinical Period Gamma (α=1.770, θ=0.690) 

Clinical Period Gaussian (μ=4.330, σ=1.944) 

Group Size 500, 1000, 5,000 and 10,000 head 

Adequate Contact Rate 6.14 (3.75, 10.06)b

Detection Threshold 5% of group 

a

: Distributions refer to swine groups of more than 200 head 

b

: Contact rate value from Eble et al., (Eble P 2006)
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Table 6: Input parameters used in the FMD spread model in a dairy and beef cattle herd.

Variable Input Distribution/Value

Latent Period Exponential 0.709 (mean of 33.72 h, SD of 34.17 h) 

Pre-clinical Period Lognormal (μ=0.862, σ=0.774) 

Clinical Period Gamma (α=4.752, θ= 0.736) 

Farm Size 100, 500, 1,000 and 2,000 head (dairy) 

5,000, 15,000, 30,000 and 50,000 head (beef) 

Adequate Contact Rate 52 to 216 contacts/day 

Detection Method 5% of herd 

The assumptions applied to the model included the following: 

 The spread model does not include the aerosol route of infection or cross-contamination

within groups (personnel and equipment), only direct contact between animals.

 The disease spread model assumes direct contact between all the animals in a herd, which

may overestimate the number of infectious animals in large feedlots.

 The on-farm surveillance is based on daily visual observation for clinically suspicious

animals. Clinically suspicious animals include animals with signs from any disease that is

similar to FMD.

 Inputs for the analysis are based on published literature and the best current knowledge of the

disease biology.

Appendix A: Model Disease Spread, contains the detailed information on the inputs and analysis 

of the model. 

Percentages of farm sizes (100-50,000 head) for swine, dairy and beef cattle premises based on 

USDA NASS data for 2007-2012 was used to predict the most likely farm size where the 

occurrence of an FMD outbreak could happen. For example, for the swine industry the 

percentages of different farm sizes were as follows: 1-99 head (71.3%), 100-499 head (7.3%), 

500-999 head (3.4%), 1,000-1,999 head (4.8%), 2,000-4,999 head (8.3%), and ≥5,000 head 

(4.8%). These data were included in a discrete distribution function to characterize the 

distribution of the swine farm sizes in the US by using @Risk software (Palisade Corp., Ithaca, 

NY, US) by the following distribution: 

RiskDiscrete({100,500,1000,2000,5000,10000},{0.713,0.073,0.034,0.048,0.083,0.048}) Eq. 1 
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In any given outbreak situation, there is a 95% chance that the outbreak occurs in a pig farm with 

5,000 head or less, in a dairy farm with 500 head or less, and in a feedlot beef farm with 1,000 

head or less. Time for disease detection will depend on the farm size and clinical observation and 

was estimated to be between 4-10 days for swine and 3-9 days for dairy and beef cattle premises. 

7.1.2. Time from detection to depopulation 

Time from detection to depopulation was estimated by adding the time for detection and the time 

for starting the depopulation with the following equation: 

Total	time � t���	 �	t���� � t���� Eq. 2 

where tdet is the time for FMD detection depending on the farm size, tconf is the time to the 

official laboratory confirmation of the disease and tsdep is the time to start the depopulation 

procedure. 

Time values for disease confirmation, starting the depopulation and depopulation rates were 

obtained from experts from Texas A&M Transportation Institute, West Texas A&M, Department 

of Homeland Security and APHIS. Time values were characterized by a Pert distribution, and 

@Risk software was used to estimate the total time by using Monte Carlo simulation with 10,000 

iterations. Input values for swine, dairy cattle and beef cattle premises are shown in Tables 9, 10 

and 11, respectively. Total time from infection to depopulation for the first FMD infected case 

was estimated to be between 10-15 days for swine, 8-12 days for dairy and 10-14 days for beef 

cattle premises. Total time estimated for subsequent FMD cases was between 7-12 days for 

swine, 6-9 for dairy and 8-11 days for beef cattle premises (Table 7). 

Table 7: Total time from infection to starting the depopulation procedure

Type of farm Total time (days)* 

First index case Subsequent cases 

Swine 11.7 (9.6-15.2) 8.7 (6.9-12.0) 

Dairy cattle 9.4 (7.5-11.6) 7.4 (5.7-9.4) 

Feedlot cattle 12.6 (10.5-14.4) 9.6 (7.8-11.1) 

*: After 10,000 iterations (mean, 5th, and 95th percentile values) 

Depopulation times were estimated by the following equation: 

Time	for	depopulation � D� � farm	si�e Eq. 3 
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where DR is the depopulation rate in heads/h and farm size is the amount of heads in a farm. 

Table 8: Time to depopulate a farm for each of the species

Type of farm Depopulation time (h)* 

Swine 7.59 (0.27-43.12) 

Dairy cattle 4.33 (0.66-19.67) 

Feedlot cattle 35.85 (19.90-43.93) 

*: After 10,000 iterations (mean, 5th, and 95th percentile values)
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Site	 

Table 9: Input values to estimate timings for depopulation procedure in case of FMD outbreak in a dairy cattle fa

Herd size Time to detect disease 

post infection (5th, mean, 

95th) (h)* 

Time from disease detection 

to lab confirmation (min., 

most likely, max. values) (h) 

Time from confirmation to 

starting depopulation (min., 

most likely, max. values) (h) 

Depopulation rate (m

likely, max. values) 

0-100 Pert (72, 115, 192) 

Pert (24, 48, 72) Pert (24, 48, 72) Pert (18, 36, 60) 100-500 Pert (96, 125, 192) 

500-1,000 Pert (96, 130, 192) 

1,000-2,000 Pert (96, 137, 216) 

*: 5% detection level. **: Using three crews (8 men each) during 3 working shifts (20 h + 4 h cleaning) and two cow side discharge 

loaders. 

Table 10: Input values to estimate timings for depopulation procedure in case of FMD outbreak in a swine farm

Herd size Time to detect disease 

post infection (5th, mean, 

95th) (h)* 

Time from disease detection to 

lab confirmation (min., most 

likely, max. values) (h) 

Time from confirmation to 

starting depopulation (min., 

most likely, max. values) (h) 

Depopulation rate 

likely, max. values

0-500 Pert (96, 144, 192) 

Pert (24, 48, 72) Pert (24, 48, 72) Pert (30, 140, 600) 500-2,000 Pert (120, 168, 216) 

2,000-5,000 Pert (144, 168, 240) 

5,000-10,000 Pert (144, 190, 240) 

*: 5% detection level. **: Using three crews (8 men each) during 3 working shifts (20 h + 4 h cleaning) and two side discharge alle

Table 11: Input values to estimate timings for depopulation procedure in case of FMD outbreak in a feedlot beef 

Herd size Time to detect disease 

post infection (5th, mean, 

95th) (h)* 

Time from disease detection to 

lab confirmation (min., most 

likely, max. values) (h) 

Time from confirmation to 

starting depopulation (min., most 

likely, max. values) (h) 

Depopulation 

likely, max. va

(heads/h)** 

0-5,000 Pert (96, 142, 216) 

Pert (24, 48, 72) Pert (24, 48, 72) Pert (18, 36, 6

5,000-15,000 Pert (120, 151, 216) 

15,000-30,000 Pert (120, 154, 216) 

30,000-50,000 Pert (120, 159, 240) 

*: 5% detection level. **: Using three crews (8 men each) during 3 working shifts (20 h + 4 h cleaning) and two cow side discharge 

loaders.
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7.1.3. Number of viremic livestock after depopulation 

The stochastic disease spread model was used to estimate the number of viremic (pre-clinical and 

clinical) and recovered animals at the time of depopulation for specific farm sizes (3,000 head 

for swine, 2,000 head for dairy and 5,000 head for feedlot cattle). Two different scenarios were 

evaluated: 1) First FMD case (Table 12); 2) Subsequent FMD cases (Table 13). The subsequent 

cases scenario was set at the minimum values obtained from experts for laboratory confirmation 

of the disease (24 h) and starting the depopulation procedure (24 h), due to the higher awareness 

of the disease. As shown in the table, most of the animals will be viremic (containing active 

FMDv) at the time of depopulation. 

Table 12: Results from the simulation for the first FMD case

Type of farm Time elapsed before 

depopulation (days)* 

Percentage of viremic animals 

(pre-clinical + clinical) (%) 

Percentage of 

recovered animals (%) 

Swine

(3,000 head) 

11.2 (9.3-14) 82 (72-88) 16 (7-27) 

Dairy cattle 

(2,000 head) 

9.7 (7.7-12.8) 78 (65-88) 21 (9-34) 

Feedlot cattle 

(5,000 head) 

9.9 (8-12.9) 78 (65-88) 21 (9-34) 

*: After 10,000 iterations (5th and 95th percentile values). Times are adjusted for each of the farm sizes. 

Table 13: Results from the simulation for the subsequent FMD cases 

Type of farm Time elapsed before 

depopulation (days)* 

Percentage of viremic animals 

(pre-clinical + clinical) (%) 

Percentage of 

recovered animals (%) 

Swine

(3,000 head) 

9.2 (8-12) 85 (81-89) 3 (2-5) 

Dairy cattle 

(2,000 head) 

7.7 (6-11) 91 (90-92) 3 (1-5) 

Feedlot cattle 

(5,000 head) 

7.9 (6-11) 91 (90-92) 3 (1-5) 

*: After 10,000 iterations (5th and 95th percentile values). Times are adjusted for each of the farm sizes. 

The time from detection to laboratory confirmation and from confirmation to starting the depopulation 

procedure was set at a total time of 48 h. 

Figures 9, 10 and 11 show the disease spread curve within a swine, dairy and beef cattle 

population for the first index case. As shown in the figures below at the time of depopulation 

there will be 2,300 viremic pigs, 1,400 viremic dairy cows and 3,500 viremic beef cattle. 
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Figure 9: FMD curve in a 3,000 head swine farm during the first index case 

Figure 10: FMD curve in a 2,000 head dairy cattle farm during the first index case 
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Figure 11: FMD curve in a 5,000 head feedlot beef cattle farm during the first index case 

7.1.4. FMDv concentration in swine and cattle viremic carcasses 

The concentration of FMDv observed in fresh tissues of pig skeletal muscle, fat, blood, lymph 

nodes and bone marrow in literature studies was from 6.31 PFU/g to 109.6 ID50/g for pigs (Table 

14). It is worth noting the majority of reports were based on the ‘worst-case scenario’, where 

pigs were inoculated with high virus titers (Mebus C, 1997). The studies suggest that the greater 

quantities of virus were detected in pig blood, bone marrow or lymph nodes ((Alexandersen S, 

2001); (Sellers R, 1971); (Chou CC, 2004); (Mebus CA ,1993); (Savi P, 1962)). The lowest 

quantities of virus were found in fat and muscle ((Mebus CA 1993); (Chou CC, 2004)). Given 

the high viral titers found in the various tissues, it is highly likely that FMDv would be present in 

the pig carcass tissues. 

Table 14: Titers of FMDv present in select tissues, excretions and secretions of pigs after 

slaughter

Source of tissue, 

secretion, or 

excretion 

Initial virus inoculation Virus concentration at 

slaughter

Reference 

Skin 107 TCID50 (0.5 mL 

inoculum) 

109 TCID50/g 

(Alexandersen S, 2001) 

Pharynx 105-106 TCID50/g 

Blood 107.5 TCID50/mL 102.5-103.75 DCP50/mL (Savi P, 1962) 
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Source of tissue, 

secretion, or 

excretion 

Initial virus inoculation Virus concentration at 

slaughter

Reference 

Blood clot 

106

 TCID50 (0.5 mL 

inoculum) 

104.8 TCID50/g 

Lymph node 10 (Chou CC, 2004) 3.8 TCID50/g 

Muscle ND

Foot epithelium 

NP 

109.6 ID50/g 

(Sellers R, 1971) 

Blood 107.2 ID50/mL 

Bone marrow 106.1 ID50/g 

Liver 105.6 ID50/g 

Feces 102.9 ID50/g 

Lymph node 

108.9 TCID50/mL 

104.1 PFU/g (black pigs) 

102.7 PFU/g (white pigs) 

(Mebus CA, 1993) 

Blood 104.3 PFU/mL (black pigs) 

102.8 PFU/mL (white pigs) 

Bone marrow 102.7 PFU/g (black pigs) 

10 PFU/g (white pigs) 

Fat ~6.31 PFU/g (black pigs) 

1.58 PFU/g (white pigs) 

Muscle ND* 

Blood 

108.9 TCID50/mL 

103.6 PFU/mL 

(Mebus C, 1997) 

Lymph node 103.4 PFU/mL 

Bone marrow 101.9 PFU/mL 

Fat ~3.16 PFU/mL

Muscle ~1.1 PFU/mL

Muscle 

107.5 PFU/mL 

>105

PFU/mL 

(Panina, GF 1989) 

Fat >105PFU/mL 

Muscle psoas NP 101.4-102.6** (Dhenin L, 1980) 
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Source of tissue, 

secretion, or 

excretion 

Initial virus inoculation Virus concentration at 

slaughter

Reference 

Shoulder muscle 100.3-104.0

Tenderloin muscle 101.0-101.4

Lymph node 102.5-104.0

Fat 101.0-102.6

Tonsils 102.0-104.0

NP: None reported 

ND*: None detected - The average titer of the sampled pigs was slightly greater than 0 PFU/g, with two 

samples with titers 10 PFU/g 

**: Units not reported 

TCID50 (Median Tissue culture infectious dose) = The amount or quantity of a pathogenic agent (e.g. 

FMDv) required to produce a damaging effect to 50% of cells in the tissue inoculated. 

PFU (Plaque forming units) = Provides an estimation of the number of infectious viral particles present 

by measuring the number of clear areas (areas of cell lysis) that are formed for a given culture plate area. 

One PFU equals about 1.4 TCID50 for FMDv based on the equation by Horzinek (Horzinek MC, 1985). 

Detectable viral titers in different cattle tissues ranged from 102.5 PFU/g to 1010.6 PFU/g (Table 

15). As was the case with swine, the majority of reports in cattle were based on the ‘worst-case 

scenario’, where cattle were inoculated with high virus titers. The studies suggest that the greater 

quantities of virus were detected in heart muscle, adrenal glands, pharynx and lymph nodes 

(Burrows R, 1966). The lowest quantities of virus were found in nervous tissue and spleen 

((Scott FW, 1965); (Cottral GE, 1969)). Given the high viral titers found in these tissues, it is 

highly likely that FMDv would be present in cattle carcass tissues. 

Table 15: Titers of FMDv present in select tissues, excretions and secretions of cattle after 

slaughter.

Source of tissue, 

secretion, or 

excretion 

Initial virus 

inoculation 

Virus concentration at 

slaughter

Reference 

Pharynx - 107 (Burrows R. 1966) 
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Source of tissue, 

secretion, or 

excretion 

Initial virus 

inoculation 

Virus concentration at 

slaughter

Reference 

Blood 105.0 bovine 

ID50 U virus 105.6 PFU/g (Cottral GE, 1969) 

Semen - 106.2 TCID50/mL (Sellers RF, 1968) 

Milk - 106.6 TCID50/mL (Donaldson AI, 1987)

Bone marrow 105.0 bovine 

ID50 U virus 105.9 PFU/g (Cottral GE, 1969) 

Lymph nodes 

- 

108.2 PFU/g 

Heart muscle 10 (Burrows R, 1981) 10 PFU/g 

Adrenal gland 1010.6 PFU/g 

Thyroid gland 

105.0 bovine 

ID50 U virus 

106.0 PFU/g 

(Cottral GE, 1969) 

Pancreas 106.4 PFU/g 

Liver 103.6 PFU/g 

Rumen 106.4 PFU/g 

Spleen 103.1 PFU/g 

Kidney 104.0 PFU/g 

Cerebrum 

- 

102.5 PFU/g 

(Scott FW, 1965) 

Spinal cord 103.2 PFU/g 

Pineal body 104.3 PFU/g 

Pituitary 106.8 PFU/g 

Skin/Hides - 106.0 PFU/g (Gailiunas P, 1966) 

7.1.5 FMDv concentration in the disposal truck 

Tables 16 and 17 show the weight ranges of different production phases and animal capacity at 

different size options for the standard rendering truck trailer. The concentration of the FMDv in 
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the disposal truck will depend on the number of viremic carcasses and the virus concentration 

per carcass. Table 17 shows that the total amount of FMDv contained in a 50000 lbs disposal 

truck is between 2x1011 and 2x1014 Plaque Forming Units. This FMDv concentration is 6-12 

times higher than the minimum infectious dose for cattle, pig and sheep for the inhalation route. 

Any small amount of body fluids escaping the truck would contain enough quantity of virus to 

potentially infect susceptible population. 

Table 16: Weight ranges of different species, depending on the production phase. 

Weight Ranges (lbs.) Dairy

Calf (birth) 55-100 

Yearling (12 months) 520-1100 

Adult Cows/Bulls 800-1700 

Beef

Calf (birth) 60-100 

Weaning (6-10 mo.) 450-700 

Market wt. (18-22 mo.) 1200-1400 

Swine

Nursery pig up to 55 

Grower pig 55-154 

Finisher pig 154-330 

Table 17: Number of carcasses in a disposal truck, depending on the capacity

Animal weight 

(lbs)

Disposal Vehicle Weight Capacity

Trailer Weight 

Capacity

Trailer Weight 

Capacity

Trailer Weight 

Capacity

(40,000 lbs) (45,000 lbs) (50,000 lbs)

Trailer Length (ft) Trailer Length (ft) Trailer Length (ft)

28' 32' 40'

Number of carcasses per X lbs

10 4000 4500 5000

25 1600 1800 2000

50 800 900 1000

100 400 450 500

200 200 225 250

300 133 150 167

400 100 113 125

500 80 90 100

600 67 75 83

700 57 64 71
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800 50 56 63

900 44 50 56

1000 40 45 50

1100 36 41 45

1200 33 38 42

1300 31 35 38

1400 29 32 36

1500 27 30 33

Table 18: Total amount of FMDv per disposal truck and growth phase

Type of farm 

Number of 

carcasses per 

truck (40') 

% of viremic 

carcasses 

Number of 

viremic carcasses 

Total amount of FMDv 

per truck (40') (PFU)* 

Calf Dairy cows 500 

78% 

390 

2x1014

Yearling Dairy 

cows 

45 35

Adult Dairy 

cows 

29 23

Calf beef cow 500 390 

Weaning beef 

cow 

71 55

Market beef cow 36 28 

Nursery pig 1000 

82% 

780 

2x1011 Grower pig 350 273 

Finisher pig 150 117 

*: Average FMDv concentration per carcass is 106 PFU/g for cattle carcasses and 103 PFU/g for 

swine carcasses. 

Table 19: Selected estimated Minimum Infectious Doses (TCID50) for cattle, sheep and 

pigs by route of exposure 1, 2, 3

Species Inhalation Nasal inoculation Oral 

Cattle 10 104-105 105-106

Sheep 10 104-105 105-106

Pigs >800 Unknown 104-105

1

: Doses are given as TCID50 (50% bovine thyroid tissue culture dose endpoint estimates). 

2

: One PFU equals about 1.4 TCID50 for FMDv. 

3

: Source: Alexandersen S. Q., 2003; Donaldson AI, 1987. 
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7.2.Likelihood that transportation of carcasses will produce leakage and 

spillage of fluids contaminated with FMDv 

Summary: The volume of body fluids of carcasses will vary depending on the growth phase, 

body weight and species. The time from depopulation to movement of carcasses to the disposal 

site will be very short (as a matter of hours), so the potential for body fluids to escape from 

carcasses (leachate) will be minimized. Mitigation measures such as sealed tailgate, tarp cover 

and the use of Bio-Zip bags will minimize the likelihood of leakage and spillage of carcass 

fluids from the disposal truck. Likelihood estimation: The likelihood of leakage and spillage of 

carcass fluids from a standard rendering truck (sealed tailgate and tarp cover) will be low. 

Adding a Bio-Zip bag will reduce the likelihood to between low and negligible for any 

type of truck. The rest of the scenarios (roll-off/dump trucks with/without tarp covering 

and liner) will have risk levels higher than low. 

7.2.1. Carcass fluids 

7.2.1.1. Leachate, Leakage and Spillage 

Leachate is the liquid that is produced by the decomposition of livestock carcasses when water 

travels through a burial site and picks up products from decomposing carcasses and carries them 

through the soil. This is a process that follows euthanasia as the carcass starts to decompose. 

Through literature search and expert opinion, ranges of leachate production for livestock were 

quantified. Mammals are approximately 70% water and, as they decompose, they turn into a 

compost-like material capable of holding onto about 50% of that water (e.g., in a 50 lb. carcass, 

17.5 lb. of body weight will be lost during the leachate process). Due to the short time elapsed 

between euthanasia and disposal, post-mortem autolysis will be minimal. Leachate as a potential 

contributor to spillage will, thus, not be considered further in this risk assessment. If time to 

disposal following euthanasia is extended, leachate may become more significant and warrant 

further consideration. 

Leakage is the volume of liquid matter (including feces, urine, blood, ingesta, serum, saliva, etc.) 

that could be released from the carcass upon euthanasia, but is not part of the decomposition 

process. This can happen post-mortem through various means, such as loss of sphincter tone, 

through maneuvering of carcasses, and through the site of euthanasia (e.g. captive bolt entry 

point). Leakage is a factor that could facilitate the release of FMDv from the truck during 

movement. Spillage is when carcass fluid from leachate or leakage spills out from the 

conveyance source into the environment and could potentially contribute to the spread of FMDv. 
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7.2.1.2. Amount of Carcass Fluids 

The table below summarizes the estimated body fluid volumes for cattle (both dairy and beef), as 

well as swine at different life stages. This is based on fluid volume comprising about 70% of 

total weight for most mammals. About two-thirds of these fluids are intracellular. So for 

example, based on total body fluids on a per weight basis, the volume range for potential leakage 

under worst case scenario for a calf (beef or dairy) would range from 6 to 20 liters. The volume 

of potential leakage from a nursery pig would range from 2 to 6 liters. These fluid quantities 

provide a reference for the total potential volume of leakage by weight and species. They are not 

considered an estimate of expected leakage. 

Table 20: Volume of Body Fluids found in Cattle and Swine

Cattle 

Calf 

(birth) 

Weaning 

(6-10 mo.) 

Market wt. 

(18-22 

mo.)

Min Max Min max Min max 

Weight, kg (lbs) 27 (59) 45 (99) 204 (449) 318 (700) 544 (1197) 810 (1782) 

Total Body Fluid Volume (L) 19 32 143 223 381 567 

 Total Free Fluid Volume 

(that which is not 

intracellular) (L) 

6 10 48 74 127 189

Swine

Nursery 

pig

Grower

pig

Finisher

pig

Min Max Min max Min max 

Weight, kg (lbs) 10 (22) 25 (55) 26 (57) 70 (154) 70 (154) 150 (330) 

Total Body Fluid Volume (L) 7 18 18 49 49 105 

 Total Free Fluid Volume 

(that which is not 

intracellular) (L) 

2 6 6 16 16 35

7.2.2. Potential for Leakage and Spillage of Carcass Fluids during 

Movement

In consulting with rendering industry experts on the typical amounts of leakage from fresh, intact 

carcasses under normal conditions, the body fluids normally remain in the carcass. In a full load 

of a standard rendering truck (29–1000 carcasses), the amount of leakage that was estimated by 

expert opinion was around 20 liters per load. The table below summarizes the likelihood of 

leakage and spillage of carcass fluids from intact carcasses during transport, with or without 
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further mitigation measures. The tarp covering will provide protection against aerosolization and 

spillage of carcass fluids, and the Bio-Zip bag will provide full protection for any of the 

possible pathways. The liner would provide a leak-proof barrier for fluids with a fullcontainment of carcasses and may aid in preventing spillage. It is not, however, sealed 

containment, such as with the sealed leak-proof tailgate or the Bio-Zip bag. 

Table 21: Leakage and Spillage of carcass fluids during conveyance 

Comparison of Conveyance Methods and Mitigations Likelihood

Standard Rendering Truck (sealed tailgate)* 

With tarp covering, and Bio-Zip bag Negligible 

With tarp covering Low 

With Bio-Zip bag (uncovered) Negligible 

Uncovered Moderate 

Roll-off Truck/Dump Truck (no seal properties)* 

With tarp covering, liner and Bio-Zip bag Negligible 

With tarp covering and liner Low to Moderate 

With tarp covering and Bio-Zip bag Negligible 

With liner only (uncovered) Moderate to High

With Bio-Zip only (uncovered) Low 

*: Capacity: 28', 32', 40' 

From the table, it can be concluded that the use of a Bio-Zip bag, with any of the vehicle types, 

will produce a negligible to low risk of leakage and spillage of fluids during conveyance. The 

scenario of the standard rendering truck or roll-off and dump truck without tarp covering would 

have a moderate to high likelihood of spillage, due to the proximity of carcasses to the top of the 

trailer in a full load. Without mitigations to prevent spillage from the truck (i.e. tarp), carcass 

fluids may have the potential to escape 

7.3. Likelihood that transportation of carcasses will produce aerosolization

of FMDv particles 

Summary: Bioaerosol is a complex field of science where multiple parameters (e.g.., 

environmental, climatic) can affect the survival and air transmission of FMDv. Likelihood 

estimation: The overall likelihood of bioaerosols emanating from a trailer and spreading 

infectious virus through carcass transportation activities is estimated as negligible to low if 

conveyance is in a standard rendering truck with tarp covering. If aerosols could be 
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produced from the carcass leakage, there is a moderate likelihood they could then move 

into the airstream. 

7.3.1. Bioaerosol Science 

Aerosols refer to an assortment of liquid or solid particles suspended in a gaseous medium 

(Gilbert Y 2009). Bioaerosols are aerosols that contain microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, 

and viruses—or organic compounds (endotoxins, metabolites, toxins, proteins from animals and 

plants, and other microbial fragments) (Macher J, 1999). The science of bioaerosols is extremely 

complex and requires an understanding of microbiology, biology, chemistry, meteorology, and 

aerosol physics (Mohr A, 2005). The sections below focus on the key points for general 

bioaerosol behavior that may pertain to FMDv associated bioaerosols. The ability to generate 

bioaerosols depends on the source, aerosolization mechanisms, environmental conditions, and 

composition (Pillai SD, 2002). Bioaerosols vary in size from 20 nm to >100 μm in diameter. 

Almost any environmental reservoir for microorganisms, such as fresh and marine surface 

waters, soil, plants, wastes and animals, is susceptible to being a source of bioaerosols. 

Bioaerosols generated from water sources are generally surrounded by a thin layer of liquid that 

rapidly evaporates to give droplet nuclei. Droplet nuclei are the dried residue of larger aerosols 

that can remain airborne indefinitely on air currents. Transport of bioaerosols, and survival of 

airborne microorganisms, are influenced by many physical and environmental factors. The size, 

shape, and density of bioaerosols are of particular significance to transport because they are 

related to the aerodynamic diameter, which controls the settling velocity ((Cox C, 1995) (Mohr 

A, 2007)). Bioaerosols between 1 and 5 μm normally follow the pathlines of surrounding air, 

making them less susceptible than larger particles to impact surfaces and deposition (Mohr A, 

2007). 

7.3.2. Bioaerosols and FMDv 

The airborne transmission of FMDv aerosols is complex. Windborne transport of virus can occur 

under specific epidemiological, climatic, and meteorological conditions, but is very uncommon. 

Prevailing climatic conditions, particularly wind speed and the vertical temperature structure, are 

major determinants of physical decay of aerosols. This is also influenced by the roughness of the 

surface over which the air plume travels. The survival of FMDv in plumes is likely across 

seaways, as the surface turbulence is low and concentrations of airborne particles can be 

maintained for greater distances than over land (Gloster J, 2005). The stability of FMDv is 

affected by radiation, RH, temperature, and weather factors. RH is the major meteorological 
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determinant affecting virus survival. It has been established that the virus is stable in aerosols at 

a RH above 60 percent and at temperatures below 33°C (91°F). Sunlight and a pollution complex 

termed “the outside air factor” have minimal direct effect on virus survival (Donaldson AI, 

1975). The aerosols, once airborne, are subject to both physical and biological loss. Biologically, 

the virus may become inactivated if the RH of the air falls below 60 percent or the water vapor 

pH of the aerosol particle becomes acidic or alkaline (Gloster J, 2004). In the absence of 

turbulence, particles greater than 10 μm are likely to be removed from the atmosphere within 

minutes. Smaller particles may remain airborne for several hours and be carried many kilometers 

in the wind (Gloster J, 2007). Particles of 5 μm or less act as vapors and can move in and follow 

an airstream without impacting obstacles; this is the size of particle that represents the worst risk. 

It is unknown if bioaerosols from leakage of carcass fluids would require the same type of 

environmental conditions to remain viable and potentially lead to infection of susceptible 

livestock. 

7.3.3. Expert Opinion on Bioaerosolization 

There are no studies on carcass bioaerosols production in the literature. Bioaerosol science is a 

very complex field, and aerosol characteristics and behavior are measured quantitatively using 

sophisticated sampling methods and equipment. Questions on aerosol behavior cannot be 

accurately modeled mathematically, as it requires knowledge of the concentration of aerosols, 

the size distribution of aerosols, the media composition, and the environmental/atmospheric 

conditions under which they are generated. Due to the lack of information on carcass aerosols, 

the experts’ opinions and rationale were based on extrapolation of their knowledge in aerosol 

science. All of the experts agreed that experimentation is required to accurately answer these 

questions and to validate their opinions. 

We queried three bioaerosol experts on the potential for generation of bioaerosols during 

transport and the expected behavior of the aerosols. The experts have different professional 

backgrounds and expertise within the field of aerosol science. The list of experts interviewed, the 

questions asked and a summary table of their answers are presented in Appendix G: Expert 

Opinion – Aerosols. Responses were compiled and compared for consensus between experts. 

The explanation of aerosol behavior varied slightly among experts, but the overall conclusions of 

the probability of occurrence of bioaerosols did not vary significantly. Expert opinion consensus 

was that the likelihood of aerosolization in an uncovered rendering vehicle during transportation 

was negligible to moderate. When the rendering vehicle was covered during transportation, 

expert opinion consensus was that the likelihood of aerosolization was negligible to low. 
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Table 22: Summary of bioaerosol responses from experts.

Questions posed to the experts Expert 1 Expert 2 Expert 3 

Aerosolization in uncovered rendering vehicle during 

transportation 

What is the likelihood (see chart) of significant aerosolization of 

carcasses fluids during transportation? 

Moderate Low Negligible 

What is the likelihood that a significant portion of the aerosolized 

particles be less than 10 μm in size 

Moderate Low -

If aerosols could be produced from the carcass leakage, what is 

the likelihood they could then move into the airstream at a farm? 

High Moderate - 

Aerosolization in covered rendering vehicle during 

transportation 

What is the likelihood (see chart) of significant aerosolization of 

carcasses fluids during transportation? 

Low Negligible Negligible 

What is the likelihood that a significant portion of the aerosolized 

particles be less than 10 μm in size 

Low - -

If aerosols could be produced from the carcass leakage, what is 

the likelihood they could then move into the airstream at a farm? 

Moderate - -

7.3.4. Potential for Aerosolization of Carcass Fluids during Movement

The likelihood estimate was based on the review of expert opinion, observation of truck design 

and operations, and current knowledge of FMDv epidemiology. The overall likelihood of 

bioaerosols emanating from a trailer with potential for spreading infectious virus through carcass 

transportation activities is estimated as low to moderate, if conveyance is in an uncovered 

standard rendering truck. When using a tarp covering, the likelihood was reduced to negligiblelow, and with a Bio-Zip bag to negligible. In this case, if aerosols could be produced from the 

carcass leakage, there is a moderate to high likelihood they could then move into the airstream. 

Experts rated the likelihood of FMDv moving from the airstream into farms along the truck route 

as between moderate and high when trailer is uncovered, and between negligible to moderate 

when covered. 
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Table 23: Aerosolization of virus particles during conveyance

Comparison of Conveyance Methods and Mitigations Likelihood 

Standard Rendering Truck (sealed tailgate)* 

With tarp covering, and Bio-Zip bag Negligible 

With tarp covering Negligible-Low 

With Bio-Zip bag (uncovered) Negligible 

Uncovered Low-Moderate 

Roll-off Truck/Dump Truck (no seal properties)* 

With tarp covering, liner and Bio-Zip bag Negligible 

With tarp covering and liner Negligible-Low 

With tarp covering and Bio-Zip bag Negligible 

With liner only (uncovered) Low to Moderate

With Bio-Zip only (uncovered) Negligible 

*: Capacity: 28', 32', 40'.
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8. Exposure Assessment

The exposure assessment is an evaluation of the potential exposure pathways by which 

susceptible animals could be exposed to infectious amounts of FMDv. There are four major 

aspects of the exposure assessment: the exposed population, the pathway of exposure, the 

magnitude of exposure, and the likelihood of exposure. For the purpose of this assessment, the 

population of interest is primarily susceptible agriculture livestock species. The potential 

pathways for exposure are through the cross-contamination of trucks, personnel or equipment by 

FMDv contaminated carcass fluids, and exposure to aerosolized particles. These events and the 

factors associated with virus survival and infectiveness are uncertain. 

For the exposure assessment of this risk assessment, the use of a standard rendering truck was 

assumed. In the entry assessment, the likelihood of the FMDv to be released during 

transportation was estimated to be between negligible to low (both for aerosolization and 

spillage). Based on the proposed mitigations in this assessment and the apparent effectiveness on 

the likelihood of virus to be released by the movement of carcasses, we conclude that the 

likelihood of exposure to FMDv by susceptible populations during the movement of infected 

carcasses will be negligible. 

9. Risk Estimation

The risk of FMD infection of susceptible livestock associated with the movement of swine and 

cattle carcasses by leakage, spillage and aerosolization of carcass fluids will be negligible when 

using a standard rendering truck (tailgate sealed and tarp cover) and a Bio-Zip bag, between 

negligible and low when using a standard rendering truck or a roll-off /dump truck with a BioZip bag. Other scenarios (uncovered standard rendering trucks, uncovered roll-off/dump 

trucks, covered roll-off/dump trucks and a liner) will have risk levels higher than low (moderate

to high). 

10. Conclusions

The following conclusions were drawn from this report: 

 Conveyances evaluated will contain carcasses with a total FMDv amount that will exceed

in several degrees of magnitude the minimum FMD infective dose for pigs and cattle.
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 The use of Bio-Zip bags is an effective mitigation to reduce the risk of leakage and

aerosolization to negligible in standard rendering trucks and to low in the other

conveyance types.

11. Recommendations for further research

An important goal of the risk assessment process is to inform the risk managers about the data 

gaps encountered during the production of the document and research strategies to fulfill the data 

gaps, in order to decrease the uncertainty in the risk estimation. 

A review of the literature on FMDv in cattle and swine indicated the following data gaps, 

research needs and uncertainties: 

1. The amount of virus that would be present in naturally infected animals and their

tissues. It may be significantly lower than the doses that have been used in scientific

research. Some variables that could be studied include: strains of FMDv, postexposure intervals, age/size of pig/cattle.

2. Data on infectivity of waste materials (i.e. aerosols, liquids, and solids) generated

during 3D operations (i.e. Depopulation, Disposal, and Decontamination).

3. Confirmation on how FMD infected carcasses will be classified for transportation

purposes, especially under the circumstances of mass depopulation, with the

possibility that infected carcasses could be designated with a different classification.

In the case of a FMD outbreak, it is possible that the Federal HazMat Transport

Regulations could be used to cover transportation. However, the Code of Federal

Regulations 49 CFR Part 175 addresses the movement of test samples and vials, but

not intact infected carcasses.

4. New modeling approaches that contain the aerosol route of infection or crosscontamination within groups (personnel and equipment) need to be explored.

5. Research on the aerosolization of FMD is limited or lacking. Expert opinion was

used in this assessment, but targeted research would add additional data and

confidence to the issue.
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Acknowledgments 

This project was developed in funded through a sub-award with West Texas A&M University 

through USDA-APHIS and DHS. We sincerely thank all those who contributed to the planning, 

writing, reviewing and expert opinion and contributed to the development of this risk assessment 

including: Kristen Johnson ( University of Minnesota), Sasi Malladi (University of Minnesota), 

Dyan L. Pratt (University of Saskatchewan), Kristen Tom Beseman (Central Bi-Products) 

Thomas Kuehn and Peter Raynor (University of Minnesota), Shawn M. Guetter (Redwood Metal 

Works), Lori P. Miller (Department of Homeland Security), Robert E. De Otte Jr. and Donald 

Topliff, (West Texas A&M University), David Finch (Texas Animal Health Commission), Curtis 

Morgan (Texas A&M Transportation Institute ), Michael Mays and Jimmy Tickel (North 

Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services), Darrel Styles (USDA APHIS), 

Peter Davies (University of Minnesota). 

Contributors: 

Jamie Slingluff, DVM, MS 

Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine Resident 

Center for Animal Health and Food Safety 

University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine 

Fernando Sampedro, PhD 

Risk Analyst/Assistant Professor 

Center for Animal Health and Food Safety 

University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine 

Timothy J. Goldsmith DVM, MPH, DACVPM 

Assistant Clinical Professor 

Center for Animal Health and Food Safety 

University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine 

Reviewed by:

Robert E. De Otte Jr., Ph.D., P.E., P.G. 

Professor of Civil & Environmental 

Engineering 

School of Engineering & Computer Science 

West Texas A&M University 

Vanessa Spradlin 

Research Assistant 

School of Engineering & Computer Science 

West Texas A&M University 

Carie Alexander DVM 

Graduate Research Assistant 

Center for Animal Health and Food Safety 

University of Minnesota 

Curtis A. Morgan 

Program Manager, Multimodal Freight 

Programs, 

Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI) 

Lori P. Miller, PE 

3D/WARRP Program Manager, 

Agricultural Defense Branch 

Department of Homeland Security 

Science and Technology Directorate 

Michael Mays 

North Carolina Department of Agriculture and 

Consumer Services 
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Appendix A: Model Disease Spread 

This appendix provide additional information on the disease spread model used to simulate the 

spread of FMDv within a swine and cattle group and estimate the number of pig and cows in 

various disease states at different time periods. The disease states included in the module are 

susceptible (S), latent (L), pre-clinically infected stage (I), clinically infected (C) and (R) 

(Carpenter, 2004). The module updates the number of pig/cows in the disease states at specific 

time steps (e.g., every 6 hours). The uncertainties in input variables as well as the inherent 

variability associated with FMD infection course in a pig/cow and spread within the group were 

considered in the model. 

Assumptions and Notation 

We have the following notation for this section: 

N- The number of pig/cows in the group. 

i - index of pig/cows in the farm i � �� � � �

t - index of time periods. i � �� � � �

��(t)- Set of indices of pig/cows that are in a susceptible state in time period t 

�����- Set of indices of pig/cows that are in a latent state in time period t 

������- Set of indices of pig/cows that are in a pre-clinically infectious state in time period t 

������- Set of indices of pig/cows that are in a clinically infectious state in time period t 

�����- Set of indices of pig/cows that are in an immune state in time period t. 

Pt- The probability that a pig/cow that is susceptible in period t becomes infected with FMD by 

period t+1. 

�����-The number of infectious pig/cows/cows/cows in time period t.

K-The adequate contact rate is defined as the expected number of contacts that a pig/cow has 

with other pigs/cows in a time period that are adequate to transmit FMD infection. 

������

���	-The number of newly infected pig/cows between period t and t+1. 

�����- The number of susceptible pig/cows in period t. 

		�����- A model variable denoting the length of the latently infected period for a pig/cow in a 

specific simulation iteration. This parameter was simulated using an exponential distribution as 

detailed in section 9.3 

		������- A model variable denoting the length of the pre-clinically infectious period for a 

pig/cow/cow in a specific simulation iteration. This parameter was simulated using a lognormal 

distribution as detailed in section 9.3 
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		������- A model variable denoting the length of the clinically infectious period for a 

pig/cow/cow in a specific simulation iteration. This parameter was simulated using a gamma 

distribution as detailed in section 9.3 

�����- A model variable denoting the simulation time at which a pig/cow/cow i entered into 

latently infected state. 

������- A model variable denoting the simulation time at which a pig/cow/cow i entered into pre 

clinically infectious state. 

������- A model variable denoting the simulation time at which a pig/cow i entered into 

clinically infectious state. 

λ- The number of hours represented by each time period t of the simulation model. λ was set at 6 

hours in our simulations. 

The main assumptions associated with this model are listed below 

 The pig/cows that are in susceptible state in a time period, all have an identical probability of

becoming infected by the next period, (i.e., differences in transmission due to grouping of

pig/cows in pens are not considered).

 Pre-clinically infectious or clinically infectious pig/cows are both equally infective with

respect to transmitting FMD, if they have an adequate contact with a susceptible pig/cow.

 The number of adequate contacts per pig/cow in a period follows the Poisson distribution.

 The variability in adequate contact rate due to differences in density of pig/cows (number of

pig or cows per unit area) among different swine or cattle operations is not considered (i.e.,

the transmission is modeled as being frequency dependent).

 The clinically immune state is not considered in the model

The Transmission Equation 

The transmission equation estimates the number of susceptible pig/cows that become newly 

infected with FMD in each time period. The transmission equation is based on calculation of the 

probability that a susceptible pig/cow has an adequate contact with at least one infected pig/cow 

in a time period. The variables considered in the equation include the adequate contact rate, the 

number of infectious pig/cows, the number of susceptible pig/cows and the total number of 

pig/cows in the farm. In general, a higher adequate contact rate or higher proportion of infectious 

pig/cows will lead to increased transmission. We use the transmission equation derived in Dietz 

and Schenzle (Dietz K, 1985) as shown in Equation 1. This transmission equation assumes that 

the number of adequate contacts each pig/cow has in a period is Poisson distributed with a mean 

(k). A Poisson process indicates a continuous and constant opportunity for an event to occur. 

�� �������������

���

������

���	������������ ���

Transition between Different Disease States 
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The transmission equation provides the basis for calculating the number of pigs/cows 

transitioning from susceptible to the latently infected state in one time period. In this section, we 

briefly describe the implementation details for transitions between other disease states. As stated 

earlier, the model updates the disease states of the pig/cows in unit time steps (e.g., 6 hours). The 

transitions from latently infected to pre-clinically infectious, pre-clinically infectious to clinically 

infectious and from clinically infectious to recovered are based on keeping track of each 

individual pig/cow’s length of each disease state and timing of when a pig/cow transitioned into 

a disease state. For instance, in the case of transitioning between the latent to preclinical infected 

state for a pig/cow, the model first calculates the length of the latent period for the pig/cow (��) 

based on the latent time distribution. The model also keeps tracks of the time period when a 

pig/cow transitioned into the latently infected state (��). The model transitions the pig/cow from 

the latently infected to sub-clinically infected state in the first time period t where t*λ ≥		��+��. 

Other disease state transitions are performed in a similar manner. The main input parameters for 

this section of the model are the probability distributions of latent, sub clinically infectious and 

clinically infectious time periods. The model can be run for a specified number of time periods 

and provides the estimates of number of pig/cows in various disease states
1

WM

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Product Description 

The BIO-ZIP SEALABLE LINER is a cleaner way of managing large volume biological 

waste streams and potential odor, leakage, disease, and environmental contamination issues. 

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industrial roll-off containers, trailers or truck racks from 10 to 40 cubic yards in total volume. 

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Typical Physical Properties and Performance Characteristics 

A. Dimensions: 

Approximate Nominal Thickness 96 mil-105 mil 

Physical Dimension See attached Engineering Drawing 

Standard Folded Size 44”W X 48”L X16”H 

Weight per unit 98 lbs 

B. Typical Physical Properties and Performance Characteristics 

Nylon Coil Zipper 

PROPERTY TEST METHOD UNITS US 

Crosswise Strength of Chain ASTM D-2061-93 254 lbs 

Holding Strength of Separable Units ASTM D-2061-93 70.1 lbs 

Resistance to Pull Off of Slider Pull ASTM D-2061-93 141.8 lbs 

Salt Spray Exposure Operational and Functional 

Technical Data June 2007
WM z Page 2 

1001 Fannin, Suite 4000 

Houston, TX 77002 

www.wmupstream.com/biozip 

WM

Bio-Zip Rev. 2.0 

Typical Physical Properties and Performance Characteristics (Continued) 

6000 DENIER Thread 

PROPERTY TEST METHOD UNITS US 

Construction 1000 denier 6ply continuous 

filament 

Elongation ASTM D-882 17% 

Tensile ASTM D-882 105 lbs 

Finish Silicone 4%-6%

7.5 oz Inner Coated Water Proof Layer (proprietary coating) 

PROPERTY TEST METHOD UNITS US 

Weight 7.4oz

Thickness ASTM D-5199 86.0 mils 

Coating ASTM D-5199 3mils 

Grab Tensile ASTM D-4632 290 lbs 

Elongation ASTM D-822 45% 

Mullen Burst ASTM D-3786 350 psi 

Trapezoidal Tear Strength ASTM D-4533 50 lbs 

Puncture Strength ASTM D-4833 120 lbs 

3.0 oz Coated Polypropylene Outer Layer (proprietary coating) 

PROPERTY TEST METHOD UNITS US 

Weight ASTM D-1910 3.7 oz/yd2 

Thickness ASTM D-5199 11mill min 

Tensile Strength Warp ASTM D-4623 140 lbs 

Tensile Strength Weft ASTM D-4632 132 lbs 

Puncture ASTM D-4355 69 lbs 

C. Environmental Resistance 

PROPERTY TEST METHOD UNITS US 

7.5 oz Inner Water Proof Coated Layer 

UV Resistance (after 500 hrs) 

ASTM D-4355 70% Strength 

3.0 oz Water Proof Coated Outer 

Protective Layer 

UV Resistance (after 1200 hrs) 

ASTM D-4355 >70% Strength 
WM z Page 3 

1001 Fannin, Suite 4000 

Houston, TX 77002 

www.wmupstream.com/biozip 

WM

Bio-Zip Rev. 2.0

Safety and Regulatory 

• Material is 100% solids and contains no hazardous air pollutants

• Hazard rating: Zero rating for health, fire and reactivity and is zero class flammability

• Disposal: Meets US regulations for landfillable materials.

Manufacturing 

• Lead Time

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 Non-Emergency- Two week lead-time is required and a 20-50 bag daily capacity

• Capacity

 Daily Maximum Capacity- 75-100 units per day

Shipping and Storage 

• Shipping

 Pallet Dimensions- 49”Wx52”L

 Bio-Zip Dimension Folded- 44”WX48”LX16”H

 Units Per Pallet-5

 Weight Per unit-98 lbs

 Weight Per Pallet-540 lbs (98 lbs x 5 +Pallet (50 lbs)

• Units per Semi-Trailer

 48’ Semi-trailer-22 pallets (110 Bio-Zip bags)

 52’ Semi-trailer-24 pallets (120 Bio-Zip bags)

• Storage

 Optimal Storage: Climate control- shelf life 20 years

 Covered, out of direct sunlight and out of elements: 5-10 years
WM z Page 4 

1001 Fannin, Suite 4000 

Houston, TX 77002 

www.wmupstream.com/biozip 

 

Drawing 1.0 Bio-Zip Engineering Drawing 
WM

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1001 Fannin, Suite 4000 

Houston, TX 77002 

www.wmupstream.com/biozip 
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Appendix C: Federal and State Regulations for Carcass Movement 

Federal Regulations 

Summary 1: Code of Federal Regulations, pertaining to carcass transportation 

CFR 

APHIS 

Title 9 - Animals and Animal 

Products » CHAPTER III--

FOOD SAFETY AND 

INSPECTION SERVICE, 

DEPARTMENT OF 

AGRICULTURE » 

SUBCHAPTER A--

AGENCY ORGANIZATION 

AND TERMINOLOGY; 

MANDATORY MEAT AND 

POULTRY PRODUCTS 

INSPECTION AND 

VOLUNTARY 

INSPECTION AND 

CERTIFICATION» Part 325-

-TRANSPORTATION » § 

325.20 Transportation and 

other transactions concerning 

dead, dying, disabled, or 

diseased livestock, and parts 

of carcasses of livestock that 

died otherwise than by 

slaughter.

No person engaged in the business of buying, selling, or transporting in commerce, or importing 

any dead, dying, disabled or diseased animals or parts of the carcasses of any animals that died 

otherwise than by slaughter shall: 

(a) Buy, sell, transport, or offer for sale or transportation, in commerce, or import any dead 

livestock if its hide or skin has been removed; 

(b) Sell, transport, offer for sale or transportation, or receive for transportation, in commerce, any 

dead, dying, disabled, or diseased livestock, or parts of the carcasses of any livestock that died 

otherwise than by slaughter, unless such livestock and parts are consigned and delivered, without 

avoidable delay, to establishments of animal food manufacturers, renderers, or collection stations 

that are registered as required by part 320 of this subchapter, or to official establishments that 

operate under Federal inspection, or to establishments that operate under a State or Territorial 

inspection system approved by the Secretary as one that imposes requirements at least equal to the 

Federal requirements for purposes of paragraph 301(c) of the Act;4 

4 A list of such registrants, States, and amendments thereof, will be published in the Federal 

Register, and information concerning the registration status of particular animal food 

manufacturers, renderers, or collection stations, or the status of particular States or Territories may 

also be obtained from the Director, Administrative Management Staff, Food Safety and Inspection 

Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. 

(c) Buy in commerce or import any dead, dying, disabled, or diseased livestock or parts of the 

carcasses of any livestock that died otherwise than by slaughter, unless he is an animal food 

manufacturer or renderer and is registered as required by part 320 of this subchapter, or is the 

operator of an establishment inspected as required by paragraph (b) of this section and such 

livestock or parts of carcasses are to be delivered to establishments eligible to receive them under 

paragraph (b) of this section; 

(d) Unload en route to any establishment eligible to receive them under paragraph (b) of this 

section, any dead, dying, disabled, or diseased livestock or parts of the carcasses of any livestock 

that died otherwise than by slaughter, which are transported in commerce or imported by any such 

person: Provided, That any such dead, dying, disabled, or diseased livestock, or parts of carcasses 

may be unloaded from a means of conveyance en route where necessary in case of a wreck or 

otherwise extraordinary emergency, and may be reloaded into another means of conveyance; but in 

all such cases, the carrier shall immediately report the facts by telegraph or telephone to the 

Compliance Staff, Meat and Poultry Inspection Field Operations, Food Safety and Inspection 

Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. 

(e) Load into any means of conveyance containing any dead, dying, disabled, or diseased livestock, 

or parts of the carcasses of any livestock that died otherwise than by slaughter, while in the course 

of importation or other transportation in commerce any livestock or parts of carcasses not within 

the foregoing description or any other products or other commodities.

Title 9 - Animals and Animal 

Products » CHAPTER III--

FOOD SAFETY AND 

INSPECTION SERVICE, 

DEPARTMENT OF 

AGRICULTURE » 

SUBCHAPTER A--

AGENCY ORGANIZATION 

AND TERMINOLOGY; 

MANDATORY MEAT AND 

POULTRY PRODUCTS 

INSPECTION AND 

All vehicles and other means of conveyance used by persons subject to § 325.20 for transporting in 

commerce or importing, any dead, dying, disabled, and diseased livestock or parts of carcasses of 

livestock that died otherwise than by slaughter shall be leak-proof and so constructed and equipped 

as to permit thorough cleaning and sanitizing. The means of conveyance so used in conveying such 

livestock, or parts thereof, shall be cleaned and disinfected prior to use in the transportation of any 

product intended for use as human food. The cleaning procedure shall include the complete 

removal from the means of conveyance of any fluid, parts, or product of such dead, dying, disabled, 

or diseased livestock and the thorough application of a disinfectant to the interior surfaces of the 

cargo space. Substances permitted for such use are: 

(a) “Liquified phenol” (U.S.P. strength 87 percent phenol) in the proportion of at least 6 fluid 

ounces to 1 gallon of water. 
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VOLUNTARY 

INSPECTION AND 

CERTIFICATION» Part 325-

-TRANSPORTATION » § 

325.21 Means of conveyance 

in which dead, dying, 

disabled, or diseased livestock 

and parts of carcasses thereof 

shall be transported.

(b) “Cresylic disinfectant” in the proportion of not less than 4 fluid ounces to 1 gallon of water; and 

such other disinfectants as are approved by the Administrator in specific cases. The use of “cresylic 

disinfectant” is permitted subject to the conditions prescribed in § 71.10(b) of this title.

DOT 

Title 49 › Subtitle B › Chapter 

I › Subchapter A › Part 105 - 

Hazardous Materials Program 

Definitions And General 

Procedures

Infectious Substances, CFR 49, 173.134 Class 6, Division 6.2 

(1) Division 6.2 (Infectious substance) means a material known or reasonably expected to 

contain a pathogen. A pathogen is a microorganism (including bacteria, viruses, rickettsiae, 

parasites, fungi) or other agent, such as a proteinaceous infectious particle (prion), that can cause 

disease in humans or animals. An infectious substance must be assigned the identification number 

UN 2814, UN 2900, UN 3373, or UN 3291 as appropriate, and must be assigned to one of the 

following 

Category A 

An infectious substance in a form capable of causing permanent disability or life-threatening or 

fatal disease in otherwise healthy humans or animals when exposure to it occurs. An exposure 

occurs when an infectious substance is released outside of its protective packaging resulting in 

physical contact with humans or animals. 

Category B 

An infectious substance that is not in a form generally capable of causing generally capable of 

causing permanent disability or life 

threatening or fatal disease in healthy humans or animals when exposure occurs; incl. Cat B trans. 

for diagnostic or investigational purposes 

Summary 2 - Examples of State Carcass Transportation Regulations 

State Regulations 

Kansas http://kansasstatutes.lesterama.org/Chapter_47/Article_12/

47-1209: Transportation of carcasses of domestic animals and packing house refuse; conditions and limitations. 

All vehicles used in the transportation upon public highways of the carcasses of any domestic animals or 

packinghouse refuse, shall conform with the following conditions and limitations: 

 (1) The carcasses of dead animals or packinghouse refuse, shall be placed in containers or vehicles which 

are constructed of, or lined with, impervious material, and which do not permit the escape of any liquid 

 (2) after original loading, the carcasses of domestic animals shall not be moved from the transporting 

container or vehicle upon a public highway or in any other place except at the disposal plant, at an authorized 

substation, or at an authorized place for transfer of carcasses or refuse into line vehicles; 

 (3) containers and vehicles shall be disinfected each time before leaving a disposal plant, or substation, and 

the exterior thereof shall be disinfected each time after loading and before entering the public highway, all in 

conformance with requirements and regulations prescribed by the commissioner; 

 (4) containers and vehicles used for transporting of carcasses of animals or packinghouse refuse shall not 

be used for the transportation of live animals except to a licensed disposal plant or the transportation of food or 

feed for human or livestock consumption until properly cleaned and sterilized. 

Wisconsin http://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/95/50

5.50 Transportation and disposal of animal carcasses. 

(2) Carcass transportation and disposal prohibitions. No person may do any of the following, either directly or 

through an employee or agent: 

(a) Transport or dispose of a carcass that the person knows or reasonably should know to be a diseased carcass 

in a manner that creates a significant and foreseeable risk of transmitting disease to humans or animals. 

(b) Dispose of a carcass in the waters of the state. This paragraph does not prohibit the use of farm-raised fish 

as bait. 

(4) Regulation of carcass transportation and disposal. The department may, by rule or order, regulate the 

transportation and disposal of carcasses to prevent and control contagious and infectious diseases. 

Florida https://www.flrules.org/gateway/ChapterHome.asp?Chapter=5C-23

5C-23.003 Transporting or Hauling Animal Carcasses or Refuse; Procedures; Records; Equipment; Quarantine. 
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(1) A copy of the official permit shall be kept in each vehicle used for transporting or hauling animal 

carcasses or refuse. 

(2) Any person transporting or hauling animal carcasses or refuse shall keep records regarding the 

collection, transportation and distribution of animal carcasses or refuse. Such records must include the names 

and addresses of persons, firms and partnerships or corporations for which animal carcasses or refuse is being 

transported and cover the previous twelve months of operation. 

(3) All vehicles and/or containers used to transport or haul animal carcasses or refuse shall be thoroughly 

cleaned and disinfected weekly or more often if deemed necessary by a representative of the Division. Each 

operator shall be responsible for the proper cleaning of his vehicles and/or containers. 

(4) Vehicle and/or containers used to transport or haul animal carcasses or refuse which do not meet the 

requirement of this rule shall be placed under quarantine by the department until they are in compliance with 

this Chapter and proper cleaning and disinfection of the same has occurred 

Texas

http://info.sos.state.tx.us/pls/pub/readtac$ext.TacPage?sl=R&app=9&p_dir=&p_rloc=&p_tloc=&p_ploc=&pg=1&p

_tac=&ti=4&pt=2&ch=59&rl=12

(a) Purpose: Livestock in Texas are subject to a variety of highly contagious, foreign animal diseases (FAD). The 

infection or exposure of Texas livestock to a FAD would create an animal health emergency requiring the 

commission to respond as expediently as possible. A FAD may be very contagious; it may affect both farm/ranch 

animals and wildlife in Texas, and it may be extremely difficult to identify, isolate, control, and eradicate. It may 

spread to other areas in the state or other states and countries if the outbreak is not controlled in an expedient or 

effective manner. Any time delay in responding to such an emergency could cause a severe impact to, or even 

destroy, the agricultural economic stability and viability of the State and possibly the Nation. The purpose of this 

section is to authorize the executive director to be able to respond quickly and restrict the movement of livestock 

from specific areas or facilities in order to reduce any potential exposure of Texas livestock to a disease as provided 

in §58.2 of this title (relating to Disease Control). 

(b) Emergency Response Movement Restrictions: As a control measure, the commission by rule may regulate the 

movement of livestock in this state. Movement restrictions contained in this section are to become effective upon a 

determination that there is exposure to a disease or an agent of transmission of one of the diseases as identified in 

§58.2 of this title (relating to Disease Control) and that these restrictions are necessary to protect livestock in this

state. 

(c) Executive Director Authority: The executive director may restrict movement of livestock in any part or all of the 

state, through this section, if the executive director determines that livestock are exposed or infected with a disease 

as identified in §58.2 of this title (relating to Disease Control) and believes that the disease presents a danger to the 

public health or livestock industry and that the executive director considers it necessary to protect livestock in this 

state, by restricting movement under this subchapter. The executive director may require testing, vaccination, or 

another epidemiologically sound procedure in order to authorize movement from restricted locations. 

(d) Effect of Movement Restrictions: These movement restrictions will remain in effect until the executive director 

has determined that the exposure to the disease or infection from the disease has been eradicated or controlled. 

(e) Inspection of Shipment of Animals or Animal Products: An agent of the commission is entitled to stop and 

inspect a shipment of animals or animal products being transported in this state in order to determine if the shipment 

originated from a quarantined area or herd; or determine if the shipment presents a danger to the public health or 

livestock industry through insect infestation or through a communicable or noncommunicable disease. An 

authorized agent of the commission may issue a hold under this chapter to detain a shipment of animals or animal 

products in order to determine if the shipment had been exposed to a disease as identified in §58.2 of this title 

(relating to Disease Control) or to determine if the shipment is being transported in violation of this chapter. The 

authorized agent of the commission may require that the shipment be unloaded at the nearest place designated as 

appropriate unloading/loading and boarding facility in order to assess health status or to protect against possible 

exposure from a disease provided by §58.2 of this title. 

(f) Restricted Movement Locations: If the executive director has determined that there is an animal health 

emergency and that there is a need to restrict movement of livestock, then movement of livestock is restricted, until 

authorized by the commission through an agent of the commission, at the following locations: 

 (1) Livestock Market; 

 (2) Feedlots; 

 (3) Shows, Fairs and Exhibitions; 

 (4) Any premise where a caretaker for livestock has received written notice that movement restrictions are in place 

based on possible exposure to a disease as identified in §58.2 of this title (relating to Disease Control). 

(g) Notice of Restrictions: Restricted movement from locations provided for in subsection (f) of this section are 

effective upon receipt of notice in accordance with §58.22 of this title (relating to Notice of Livestock Movement 
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Restrictions).

(h) Statewide application or part of state: The movement restrictions contained in this section can be made effective 

for all or part of the state in order to protect against exposure from a disease as identified in §58.2 of this title 

(relating to Disease Control). 

Georgia http://agr.georgia.gov/Data/Sites/1/media/ag_animalindustry/equine/files/laws/ocga4-5-

1disposalofdeadanimals527031.pdf

Dead animals or parts thereof, raw or unrendered, except green salted hides, shall not be allowed to enter 

the State of Georgia except by written permit issued by the Georgia Department of Agriculture; provided, 

however, that licensed research institutes, accredited colleges or state colleges and universities, and 

departments of municipal governments may transport and receive dead animals for research or 

investigational purposes only. (Ga. L. 1969, p. 1018, § 7.)3 

4-5-9 Prohibition or restriction on transport of dead animals; permit issuance. 

The Commissioner of Agriculture may prohibit or restrict, at his or her discretion, and issue permits for 

the hauling or transportation of dead animals or types of dead animals and order the destruction thereof in 

accordance with this chapter. 

Maine www.maine.gov/sos/cec/rules/01/001/001c211.doc 

SECTION 15. TRANSPORTATION OF POULTRY AND LIVESTOCK CARCASSES 

1. Secure Containers - Poultry or livestock carcasses transported over any public road shall be transported in

secure containers. 

2. Diseased Carcasses - Carcasses from animals that died or were slaughtered due to a disease outbreak may

only be transported from the farm or other regulated facility where they originated with the permission of the 

Commissioner. A written biosecurity plan shall be required prior to transportation of diseased carcasses. 

Minnesota http://www.vetmed.state.mn.us/portals/22/BAH%20Rule%20Book.pdf

Disposal of Dead Animals and Rendering Plants 

1719.0200 Permits. Subpart 1. Generally. Permits from the board are required for all trucks used to transport 

carcasses or discarded animal parts over public roads. The permit authorizes the permittee to transport the 

carcasses or discarded animal parts over public roads to an establishment but does not authorize crossing state 

lines. Permits are valid for one year unless revoked in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, section 

35.93. The permittee shall comply with rules of other state and federal agencies. No permit is required for a 

person to haul the carcass of an animal which was owned by that person before the animal died. 

1719.0310 Trucks crossing state lines. 

Trucks crossing state lines must meet applicable conditions in any reciprocal agreement between the states 

involved. 

1719.0400 Truck owned by person other than owner or operator of rendering plant. 

If a truck is owned by a person other than the owner or operator of the establishment, the owner or operator of 

the truck and the owner or operator of the establishment are responsible for compliance with all laws and rules 

pertaining to the transportation of carcasses. The application must indicate the name and address of the owner 

of the truck. 

1719.0500 Inspection of plant facilities and trucks. 

Subpart 1. Generally. Before permits are issued, an inspection of the plant, collecting station, and trucks 

must be made by an agent of the board to determine if the facilities of the plant and the trucks comply with this 

chapter. A report of the inspection must be filed with the board. 

Subp. 2. Repealed by amendment, 20 SR 2033 

Wyoming http://legisweb.state.wy.us/statutes/titles/Title11/T11CH23AR3.htm 

ARTICLE 3 - TRANSPORTATION OF CARCASSES TO RENDERING PLANTS 

 11-23-301. Generally; exceptions. 

With the consent of the owner, unless removal is contrary to state, county or local sanitary regulations or in the 

opinion of the state veterinarian might result in spreading contagious or infectious disease or threaten the health 

of human beings, animals or poultry, carcasses of animals may be transported to any rendering plant legally 

operating without prior inspection for brands and ownership. The operator of a rendering plant within this state 

receiving the carcasses is a hide buyer and shall comply with W.S. 11-23-201 through 11-23-207. 
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Appendix D: Expert Opinion – Rendering 

Expert opinion was sought on standard carcass transportation practices. Rendering companies 

have expertise in mass carcass removal and conveyance on a daily basis. Central Bi-Products, a 

full service rendering company that operates two complexes in Redwood Falls, MN and in Long 

Prairie, MN was contacted to provide expert opinion on carcass transportation in the rendering 

industry.

Expert opinion was sought on the means of conveyance (specifications, types of vehicles 

commonly utilized), standard procedures in carcass pick-up and transportation, and regulations 

regarding carcass conveyance. 

The most commonly used trailers in the industry with the standard rendering truck (semi-truck 

with an open box container) are 28, 32 and 40 feet. Open containers are sealed with a tarp 

covering prior to transportations. These come in a variety of mechanisms. The majority of the 

industry in the Upper Midwest utilizes a roll-top system. Transportation regulations mandate 

that the rendering vehicles are leak-proof. In Minnesota, rendering vehicles are permitted and 

inspected. The driver can retrieve carcasses from locations without ever stepping foot on the 

premises using an automated grapple system on the standard rendering truck. Estimates on 

truck capacity for the maximum carcass weights of what each trailer can hold are below:

Trailer Length (ft) Trailer Weight Capacity lbs (kg) 

28' 40,000 lbs (18,182 kg)

32' 45,000 lbs (20,455 kg)

40' 50,000 lbs (22,727 kg)

According to the industry experts, in a full carcass load (cattle), the carcass fluid (manure, urine, 

blood, basically any liquid that can spill out of the carcasses and into the truck during transport 

process) depth that one typically would see in the bed of the rendering truck is very little if the 

animals are loaded fresh (within 24 hours). It was estimated that if one were to clean the bottom 

of the trailer with a broom and shovel you might get a 5 gallon pail full of carcass fluids, as there 

is very little leakage from fresh animals. 
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Appendix E: Expert Opinion – Depopulation 

Sources and Generation 

Expert opinion was sought for likely times for depopulation. Although official regulations state 

euthanasia and disposal will occur within 24hrs or as soon as possible after premises 

classification (Red Book, National Center for Animal Health Emergency Management, 2011), 

we know that these will be dependent on resources and scale of outbreak as well as 

interpretation. Experts in depopulation were contacted and requested to provide opinion on 

euthanasia time and depopulation rates. 

Experts who agreed to provide opinions for euthanasia and depopulations times were: 

 David Finch, Texas Animal Health Commission

 Lori Miller, Department of Homeland Security

 Donald Topliff, West Texas A&M University

 Jimmy Tickel, North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

 Darrel Styles, USDA APHIS

Euthanasia Time 

The following questions were provided to experts. For each of these questions, experts were 

requested to provide their opinion on 1) minimum, 2) most likely, and 3) maximum timing. 

1. What is the most likely time to start of euthanasia for FMD Index premises?

2. What is the most likely time to start of euthanasia for Subsequent FMD premises?

3. What are the most likely depopulation rates (Expert Opinion) for cattle and hogs.

(animals /day or animals /hr)?
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Appendix F: Aerosol Science 

Sources and Generation 

Generation of bioaerosols can occur under natural conditions as well as from human activities 

such as spreading of slurries, pressurized spray irrigation, and aeration basins at wastewater 

treatment plants. In general, airborne microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, and viruses), and their 

components, are generated as a mixture of droplets or particles, having different aerodynamic 

diameters ranging from 0.5 to 100 μm ((Cox C, 1995); (Lighthart B, 1994)). 

Microorganisms associated with droplets evaporate to dryness or near-dryness before impacting 

the ground or vegetation and are transported by air currents (Dungan RS, 2010). The optimum 

aerodynamic particle range which represents a hazard to the human respiratory tract is between 

1.0 and 10 μm ((Mohr A, 2005); (Mohr A, 2007)).

The dissemination and transport of bioaerosols depends on the method of bioaerosol generation 

and energy input into the system. Pressurized air, electricity, centrifugal forces, impaction, or 

heat can provide the energy needed to produce small particles. Many of these forces are so 

violent that inactivation of the microorganisms will occur. Fluids associated with newly 

aerosolized particles will instantaneously start to evaporate. The distribution and concentration of 

particle sizes are two important variables that directly affect the potential for dissemination and 

transport. 

Transport

The transport, behavior, and deposition of bioaerosols are affected by their physical properties 

(i.e., size, shape, and density) and meteorological factors they encounter while airborne. 

Naturally occurring bioaerosols are ejected into the atmosphere by wind, rain and bursting 

bubbles, and other processes. The environmental conditions of wind velocity, RH, temperature, 

and precipitation significantly affect transport of bioaerosols with atmospheric stability being a 

major factor ((Jones AM, 2004); (Lighthart B, 2000)). 

Bioaerosols are subject to inactivation and transport the moment they become airborne. Particle 

sizes of droplets are usually small (2 to 10 μm) and they tend to follow the streamlines of the 

local wind. Particles with sizes smaller than 5.0 μm act as vapors and follow the streamlines of 

the airstream. The aerodynamic diameter of particles determines whether it is small enough to 

follow the streamlines of the surrounding flows, or if it is large enough to cross streamline flow 

and impact upon a surface. Deposition of larger aerosols occurs through gravitational settling, 

impaction, diffusion, convection (due to temperature variations), and wash-out by raindrops 

(Muilenberg M, 1995).

Viability, Stability, and Infectivity 
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The viability of bioaerosols is dependent upon their chemical makeup and the environmental and 

meteorological factors they are exposed to, such as wind speed, temperature, and RH. These 

atmospheric conditions are strongly influenced by features such as large-scale flow fields, 

geographical locations, and local topography. The most significant environmental factors 

influencing viability are RH, solar irradiance, temperature, and oxygen concentration. Additional 

influences include air ions and open-air factors (OAF). Atmospheric turbulence is responsible for 

diffusion of particles during transport by the wind (mean wind speed) and is strongly influenced 

by local atmospheric conditions and the diurnal variation of solar irradiance reaching the ground.

Of all of the measurable meteorological parameters, RH is the most important with respect to 

aerosol stability, which is an important determinant of bioaerosol viability and infectiousness 

((Mohr A, 2005); (Mohr A, 2007)). The majority of airborne microorganisms are immediately 

inactivated upon release because of environmental stresses (desiccation, temperature, and 

oxygen) which act upon and alter the surface of the microorganism. The fundamental factors that 

affect the viability of microorganisms are the state of the water and water content of the 

bioaerosol. As RH decreases, the water available to the exterior environment of the 

microorganism also decreases. Loss of water can cause dehydration, resulting in inactivation of 

many microorganisms. The RH of the system also directly affects the density of the bioaerosol 

unit. The size, shape, and density of the aerosolized particles are directly related to the 

aerodynamic diameter, which determines settling velocity and location of deposition in the 

respiratory tract ((Mohr A, 2005); (Mohr A, 2007)).

Studies to determine the effect of temperature on the fate of bioaerosols have generally shown 

that increasing temperatures tend to decrease the viability of airborne microorganisms (Dimmock 

NJ, 1967). It is difficult to separate the effects of temperature and RH, as the vapor pressure and 

RH of a system are dependent on temperature. The lipid content of the outer coat, or capsid of a 

virus, determines the stability at high or low RH values. 
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Appendix G: Expert Opinion – Aerosols 

Bioaerosol Experts Interviewed and Questions 

The three experts who responded to a request for expert opinion were interviewed about the 

probability of generating bioaerosols during pumping and transport of FMD-infected carcasses. 

Background information was provided to the experts on truck design, mitigations, and 

regulations. The following experts that agreed to an interview have varying backgrounds in 

aerosol /bioaerosols research including engineering and aerosol physics.. 

 Robert DeOtte, PhD, PE, PG, Professor of Civil & Environmental Engineering, West

Texas A&M University

 Thomas Kuehn, MS, PhD , Professor, University of Minnesota, Department of

Mechanical Engineering

 Peter Raynor, MS, PhD, Associate Professor, University of Minnesota, Division of

Environmental Health Sciences

The questions below were posed to the experts in bioaerosol science. The table below 

summarizes their responses. 

Expert opinion was sought as to whether or not infected fluids that may leak from the carcasses 

post-mortem (infectious fluids like feces, urine, stomach/rumen contents, blood, milk etc.) would 

generate aerosols while being transported from site of euthanasia to disposal. The conveyance 

assessed were a box trailer that is 1) open on the top and 2) one that is covered with a tarp.

Based on the likelihood definitions below, please provide expert opinion on aerosolization in 1) 

uncovered and 2) covered standard rendering vehicle during transportation 

Likelihood Descriptive Definition

High The event would be very likely to occur 

Moderate The event is unlikely but does occur with a certain probability 

Low The event would be unlikely to occur 

Negligible The likelihood that the event will occur is insignificant, not worth considering 

1. What is the likelihood (see chart) of significant aerosolization of carcasses fluids during

transportation?

2. What is the likelihood that a significant portion of the aerosolized particles to be less than

10 μm in size?

3. If aerosols could be produced from the carcass leakage, what is the likelihood they could

then move into the airstream at a subsequent farm?

4. Can you briefly describe your rationale for the selected likelihood levels?
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Summary 3 - Expert Opinion on Bioaerosols 

Expert 1 Expert 2 Expert 3 

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What is the likelihood of 

significant aerosolization of 

carcasses fluids during 

transportation? 

Moderate 

There could be two 

potential mechanisms 

for particle formation: 

(1) the sloshing of 

fluids back and forth 

against walls and 

surfaces which could 

form particles as the 

fluids impact, and (2) 

wind eddies forming 

drops along the 

surface of the 

fluids. Although the 

carcasses will limit the 

sloshing of the fluids 

and the access of 

strong eddies against 

the surface of the 

fluids, thus reducing 

the risk of generation, 

I still think the 

likelihood is 

Moderate. 

Low 

The only aerosolization process considered is direct 

generation by the air stream when the trailer is in 

motion. Generating aerosol particles from wet liquids or 

material that is moist is nearly impossible without 

extremely large shear forces caused by high air 

velocities. The liquid viscosity also plays a role, the 

more viscous the liquid the more shear force is required 

and the less likely that particles will be generated. Dried 

material that was liquid at one time is also quite resistant 

to particle production. Dry loose dust could be 

aerosolized in an open trailer but I think the materials 

you are working with should be very resistant to this. 

Another scenario is dripping from the trailer onto the 

roadway. This potentially could generate aerosols 

directly at elevated speeds and perhaps the material 

deposited on a roadway could be aerosolized by passing 

vehicles. I think the potential for this scenario to 

generate particles is higher than simply looking at the air 

forces generated in an open trailer because the fluid is 

being dripped in the form of small droplets into a fast 

moving air stream. Nonetheless, I think the likelihood 

of this causing any secondary infection is quite remote 

Negligible 

Generating aerosols from 

the liquid collecting at the 

bottom of a trailer is 

unlikely. The carcasses 

above that pool will hinder 

air flow and limit the shear 

necessary to generate 

droplets. A more likely 

possibility for the 

uncovered trailer is matter 

on the hide of the upper 

layer or two of animals 

breaking loose by 

mechanical means and 

being carried by air 

currents away from the 

vehicle. These solid 

particles could be fairly 

large but if so, will settle 

quickly. The particles 

could impact solid 

surfaces and break into 

smaller particles. The 

particles of concern would 

be dust from dried, 

crushed manure on the 

hide. These can easily be 

smaller than 10 μm.

What is the likelihood that a 

significant portion of the 

aerosolized particles to be less 

than 10 μm in size 

Moderate 

If some aerosol 

droplets are generated, 

a significant number 

could be smaller than 

10 micrometers 

because the water 

portion of droplets will 

evaporate, potentially 

causing larger droplets 

to rapidly become 

smaller. 

Low -

If aerosols could be produced 

from the carcass leakage, what 

is the likelihood they could 

then move into the airstream at 

a subsequent farm? 

High

With the open top, I 

think there is a strong 

possibility for any 

aerosol droplets 

created to get into the 

air at a subsequent 

farm. Thus, I rate 1. c. 

High, although the 

overall likelihood of 

this outcome is only 

moderate because I 

think the risk of 

aerosols being 

produced in the first 

place is moderate. 

Moderate -

COVERED
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What is the likelihood of 

significant aerosolization of 

carcasses fluids during 

transportation? 

Low 

Formation of droplets 

by wind eddies is 

negligible here, 

although droplet 

formation by sloshing 

fluid impacting on 

surfaces is still 

possible. Thus, I give 

2. a. the Low rating.

Negligible 

Dripping could be an issue but direct aerosol production 

from under a covered load should be negligible

Negligible 

If the trailer is covered, 

that further reduces air 

flow at the bottom of the 

trailer, the likelihood for 

any aerosol generation and 

release is negligible for the 

covered trailer.

What is the likelihood that a 

significant portion of the 

aerosolized particles to be less 

than 10 μm in size 

Low 

Because the trailer is 

covered, humidity 

inside the trailer is 

likely to be higher 

than if the trailer is 

uncovered, meaning 

that aerosol droplets 

are less able to 

evaporate than in 1. 

b. Thus, I have rated 2. 

b. as Low. 

- -

If aerosols could be produced 

from the carcass leakage, what 

is the likelihood they could 

then move into the airstream at 

a subsequent farm? 

Moderate 

The trailer is not air 

tight, so there is still a 

significant possibility 

that any droplets 

formed will be able to 

escape the trailer at a 

subsequent 

farm. However, it is 

certainly less likely 

than if the trailer was 

uncovered, so I rate 2. 

c. as Moderate as

opposed to the rating 

of High for 1. c.

- -