Inyo and Mono counties have introduced a new program designed to assist commercial agriculture producers in protecting their operations during natural disasters. This initiative, known as AgPass, allows for the issuance of special passes. These passes may permit qualifying producers to enter designated evacuation zones to perform critical tasks, such as relocating livestock or ensuring crops are properly irrigated. This access is granted only when conditions are deemed safe by incident command staff, and it is important to note that access remains subject to their ultimate permission.
Both Inyo and Mono counties have officially adopted the AgPass program through resolutions passed recently. This joint effort underscores a commitment to supporting the local agricultural sector, recognizing the unique challenges commercial producers face when natural disasters necessitate evacuations. The program aims to provide a structured pathway for essential agricultural activities to continue, thereby helping to mitigate potential losses and disruptions to local farming and ranching operations during emergencies.
To be eligible for an AgPass, commercial agriculture producers must fulfill several requirements designed to ensure both their operational legitimacy and their preparedness for disaster scenarios. Applicants are required to verify their commercial status by submitting appropriate documentation. In addition to this, a crucial component of the qualification process involves completing specified fire safety training, emphasizing safety protocols during emergency situations. Furthermore, producers must provide detailed property maps as part of their application. These requirements are in place to ensure that those granted passes are equipped with the necessary knowledge and have their operational boundaries clearly defined.
It is critical for all prospective applicants to understand that an AgPass does not guarantee automatic access to evacuation zones. The program explicitly states that entry is always subject to permission from incident command staff. Furthermore, any permitted access may be conditioned to specific areas within an evacuation zone or limited to certain timeframes, depending on the evolving nature of the incident and safety considerations. These stipulations are vital for maintaining public safety and ensuring emergency response efforts are not impeded. The AgPass serves as a potential tool, not an absolute right, for producers seeking to safeguard their agricultural assets during a disaster.
Applications for the AgPass program are currently available. Commercial agriculture producers interested in obtaining a pass can access the necessary forms online. These applications are provided through the Inyo-Mono Counties Agricultural Commissioner's page, which can be found on the Inyo County website. For those who prefer or require an alternative method, producers also have the option to arrange an in-person meeting to complete their application. This can be done by calling the office at (760) 873-7860. Nate Reade, the Inyo-Mono Agricultural Commissioner, is associated with the announcement of this new resource for the community’s agricultural stakeholders.
