Animals in disasters: Case studies: Turrialba

The project began with a detailed profile of Turrialba's assets, strengths and vulnerabilities. We created risk map of the dairy industry the community depends on, and also elaborated on its own risk reduction plan. We pulled together survival plans for small eruptions, as well as plans for a catastrophic eruption where immediate evacuation is the only option.

Engaging the community

The livestock risk management model, with emphasis on community education, was developed from a pedagogical perspective of community education. It aimed to integrate domestic animals into the prevention and/or evacuation plans, to protect the livelihoods of people who depend on them.

The model uses the methodology of social constructivism and looks for a language and communication methods most appropriate to stakeholders and users (dairy farmers, etc.), and practical learning models and simulations in the field. The strategy aims to identify a community with the process, and strengthen its self-confidence, organization, creativity and dialogue.

Finally, it seeks to develop the ability to create its own model of livestock risk management based on community strengths. The community would need to diagnose its situation: characteristics of animals, production, specific value for the community, threats, vulnerabilities, historical record of emergencies, basic infrastructure, strengths, livestock inventories. It would also need to create a risk map and risk reduction plan, including: needs, roles and functions, cost / benefit analysis, actions, simulations/drills, prioritization and scheduling.

Fortunately, no animal losses were reported, since the producers of dairy cattle evacuated on time and took the necessary prevention measures to protect their assets.