The New York State Cattle Health Assurance Program (NYSCHAP) and the New York State Sheep/Goat Health Assurance Program (NYSSGHAP) were developed to aid producers with setting up whole herd/flock health management programs. All advice is free and confidential, and there is money available to cover the costs of the initial farm visit between you, a state veterinary advisor, and your herd/flock veterinarian, and subsequent annual visits. What's covered in the visit is up to you, but generally, visits will cover the following topics:

• Increase herd/flock productivity and profitability
• Manage herd/flock health
• Assure food safety, public health, and consumer confidence
• Promote environmental stewardship.

For more information, contact your herd veterinarian. They'll work with your local NYS Agriculture and Markets Field Veterinarian to schedule a date and time for your first meeting.