06/08/2026
Training Dates & Locations:
June 24--Caro
June 25--Ga***rd
Program Description:
The increasing frequency and intensity of disasters underscore the critical connection between animal health, human safety, and infrastructure protection. Despite this, animals are often overlooked in emergency planning and exercises due to limited resources and access to appropriate tools.
LADDER (Local Approach to Discussion-Based Disaster Exercises and Readiness) is designed to bring Extension educators together with local emergency management partners to engage whole-community stakeholders in a discussion-based exercise focused on improving disaster preparedness involving animals. By leveraging the expertise of non-traditional partners—such as Extension staff, livestock producers, veterinarians, and animal control personnel—participants can develop innovative, collaborative approaches to strengthen local response efforts.
Participants will engage in an interactive disaster scenario set in the fictional Calamity County, working in teams to navigate challenges and solve problems. The exercise concludes with a facilitated discussion focused on evaluating local emergency operations plans, identifying resource gaps, and building the networks necessary to enhance animal response capacity.
LADDER is valuable for a wide range of stakeholders, including: Emergency Managers, Extension Educators, Public Health Professionals, Livestock Producers, Local Government Officials, First Responders, Veterinarians, Animal Control Personnel, and Shelter/Response Teams.
Thank you in advance for your support. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
Best,
Katie Ockert
MSU Extension Educator
Community, Food, & Environment
Instructor
Department of Fisheries & Wildlife
50 E. Sprague Rd.
Ionia, MI 48846
[email protected]
