Biosecurity on the Horse Farm

in the water and drier grasses in the pasture. They control stream flow prevent erosion and support fish and aquatic insect habitat while providing nesting areas for aquatic birds and reducing pollutants such as phosphorus and nitrates. Horses trampling riparian areas to access drinking water can do a great deal of damage and ideally should be kept away from these fragile habitats by providing their water in a trough that can be regularly drained and scrubbed. 
As spring arrives horse owners look at new building projects or renovations of existing barns and storage buildings. This is the perfect time to consider biosecurity options as part of the construction plans and give further thought to longterm arrangements that help keep horses safe.
For construction materials consider using smooth nonporous and durable materials that are easy to clean and disinfect such as metal vinylcoated metal some plastics polymercoated wood and sealed concrete. Surfaces sealed with nontoxic marine grade enamel paint are easy to disinfect and keep clean but avoid sealing surfaces that horses may chew on. Ensure that the paints sealers cleaners and disinfectants you use are approved for use in livestock buildings.
Consider roofing materials snow loads and effective ways to channel rainwater from the roof and gutters into your drainage system. Choose building materials that will not shatter or splinter if a horse kicks them or which degrade from continued exposure to sunlight or cleaning products.
Water supply to any barn structure is essential so you will need a discussion with your plumbing contractor about installation of both an adequate water heater and a sufficient number of taps and sinks for cleaning and handwashing. In addition consider the value of a horse wash stall which will require adequate water pressure and hot and cold water good lighting and a sink and product storage shelves to keep everything off the floor. It should be plumbed for sufficient subfloor drainage.
Every farm needs a biosecurity plan. It doesnt have to be costly or complicated but should have practical procedures and preventative measures that anyone working at the facility can follow. It starts with communication since the plan is to protect the health of your horses by looking at all the ways you can minimize risks of disease transmission. The biosecurity plan and procedures should be shared with everyone who either works at the farm or visits to provide services.
For those working with you the plan should