USDA audit rule and voluntary biosecurity incentives reach Minnesota producers; state reports three required BCAP audits so far

Minnesota animal health officials briefed the board on two related USDA programs intended to raise on‑farm biosecurity: a mandatory audit requirement tied to indemnity eligibility and a voluntary, incentive‑based assessment that can qualify producers for cost‑share remediation.

Mandatory audits and indemnity: The Biosecurity Compliance Audit Program (BCAP) interim rule, implemented as an interim rule late last year, ties indemnity eligibility in affected areas to the completion and passing of an audit. “If you hear audit, it means it’s required,” a USDA‑trained auditor said during the briefing, noting the role of audits for premises within control areas or previously infected premises seeking indemnity prior to restocking. Minnesota said it has completed three required BCAP audits so far,…