Inyo and Mono counties have officially introduced a new program aimed at assisting commercial agriculture producers in safeguarding their operations during natural disasters. The AgPass program provides a structured pathway for counties to issue special passes, potentially allowing producers to enter evacuation zones for critical tasks when it is deemed safe to do so by emergency personnel.
This initiative directly addresses the unique challenges faced by agricultural businesses during emergencies, where time-sensitive actions like moving livestock or irrigating crops are vital for continuity and preventing significant losses. Both Inyo and Mono counties have formally adopted the AgPass program through resolutions passed recently, establishing it as a new component of their disaster preparedness and response frameworks.
Under the provisions of the AgPass program, eligible producers may receive these special passes, which are designed to facilitate access to areas otherwise restricted under evacuation orders. The critical tasks for which entry may be permitted are those essential to maintaining the welfare of animals and the health of crops. This includes, but is not limited to, the urgent relocation of livestock from hazardous zones or the necessary irrigation of fields to prevent widespread crop damage, ensuring the ongoing viability of agricultural enterprises during periods of crisis.
To qualify for an AgPass, commercial agriculture producers must fulfill several specific requirements. Applicants are mandated to verify their commercial status through the submission of appropriate documentation. This step ensures that the program benefits legitimate agricultural operations within the counties. In addition to commercial verification, producers must complete required fire safety training, a crucial component designed to enhance safety protocols for individuals potentially entering emergency zones. Furthermore, applicants are required to provide detailed property maps of their agricultural holdings, which can assist incident command staff in coordinating safe and efficient access should it be granted.
It is important for all prospective applicants to note that participation in the AgPass program does not guarantee automatic or unrestricted access to evacuation zones. Any entry into such areas, even with an AgPass, remains strictly subject to the explicit permission of incident command staff overseeing the emergency response. The decision to grant access will always prioritize overall public safety and the effectiveness of ongoing emergency operations. Moreover, any permitted access may be conditioned to specific areas within the broader evacuation zone or limited to particular timeframes, depending on the dynamic nature of the natural disaster and the safety assessments made by incident command.
Applications for the AgPass program are now available to all eligible commercial agriculture producers in Inyo and Mono counties. Interested producers can access the necessary forms and detailed information online through the Inyo-Mono Counties Agricultural Commissioner’s page, which is accessible via the Inyo County website. For individuals who prefer an in-person application process or require direct assistance, arrangements can be made by calling (760) 873-7860 to schedule a meeting. This dual application approach aims to ensure accessibility for all commercial agricultural producers within the region.
