Why flood preparation is important
Floods can cause significant damage to farm infrastructure, fences, feed and livestock. Cleaning up is costly and time-consuming.
Having a flood plan:
- helps protect your home, property and business
- supports animal welfare
- reduces financial loss and recovery time
- ensures others can act on your behalf if you are away
Good planning makes good farming sense, especially if your property is on a floodplain.
Create a flood plan for your property
A flood plan should be simple and easy to follow. It should:
- identify your property’s risks and hazards
- outline actions to reduce risk
- explain what to do before, during and after a flood.
What to include in your farm flood plan
Every flood is different, so it is important to prepare for a range of impacts. Here are some examples of what to include in your farm flood plan.
If you have livestock and animals
Move animals early to safe high ground with food, clean water and shelter. Ensure animals cannot be trapped by rising water.
Keep up to date on warnings and conditions.
Property access and isolation
If your property could be isolated during a flood, you should:
- Store food, water, batteries, first aid and other essentials above expected flood levels.
- Keep a battery-powered radio and generator ready.
- Secure emergency contacts and essential documents.
Storing chemicals and equipment
Store chemicals off the ground in locked sheds. Move equipment like tractors and vehicles to higher ground. Secure moveable items such as containers, feeders and loose debris.
What to do during a flood event
Flood Watch
- Move livestock to higher ground.
- Remove pumps from waterways.
- Relocate or secure farming equipment and vehicles.
- Clear paddocks of debris such as pipes, timber and tools.
- Store chemicals safely above flood levels.
- Check your emergency kit includes food and water for 5 days.
- Keep legal documents, contacts and accounting records accessible.
- Check on neighbours if safe to do so.
Flood Warning
- Follow emergency warnings and public updates.
- Stay in contact with neighbours and staff.
- Seal buildings and sandbag as needed.
- Lock storage sheds and keep pets safe.
- Send staff and visitors home if possible.
- Be ready to evacuate, leave early if you plan to go.
Evacuation Warning
- Be ready to leave with your emergency kit and pets.
- Stay informed through official warnings and alerts.
After a flood
Local Land Services can support primary producers after a flood with:
- on-farm clean-up advice
- veterinary services
- pasture recovery support
- funding, grants and skills development programs.
Emergency contacts and resources
In a life-threatening emergency, call triple zero (000).
For help during a flood or storm, contact the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500
The SES also has emergency planning advice and up to date flood warnings:
Contact Local Land Services NSW
We welcome your enquiries, feedback and comments. Contact our team
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