No trespassing

Like any business, farms have their own set of security challenges. Several recent events highlight the need for farmers to take a closer look at security.

• A man wandered onto a North Carolina livestock farm this spring and drove off with a $45,000 tractor and $15,000 worth of related equipment.
• Over several weeks this past winter, about 325,000 chickens were killed in 16 South Carolina chicken houses on six farms. Vandals bypassed the alarm systems to raise or lower temperatures in the houses to kill the birds. The value of the chickens: $1.7 million.
• In Sacramento, Calif., police have investigated seven recent incidents of decapitated heads of cows, chickens, goats and lambs found in parks, cemeteries and other open areas.
• During an annual audit early this year, a Texas cattle ranch found 1,121 unbranded steer calves had been stolen over the past 12 months.

From the Carolinas to California, farmers are facing vandalism, theft, destruction of property and threats. Crimes against property are not confined to suburbs and inner cities. Farmers need to step up and invest in security solutions.

There is no “one-size-fits-all” farm security plan. Begin by meeting with an experienced security consultant to conduct an all-hazards study that will look at what needs protecting and at surrounding properties and roads, onsite buildings and employees. The study will lead to a plan that addresses the specific security concerns of each farm.

Crime prevention through environmental design

If trees and brush are growing around animal enclosures, equipment sheds or office buildings, they can provide a hiding place for criminals. In many cases, regular trimming will do the job; other times they need to be removed.

Lighting is vital around areas that house animals and equipment. Also, standby power is helpful in case of a power failure or cut utility lines.

Fencing and gates help channel visitors away from high-value areas. They also act as a barrier that slows access in and out of protected sites.

“Private property” signage can remind people that they are not to trespass. It can also advise them that the farm has an active security system.