County Fair Season Brings Focus to Livestock Biosecurity

Contents for this blog come from my interview with Joel Derouchey, Kansas State University livestock specialist.

As county fair season kicks off across Kansas, excitement builds for 4-H families and exhibitors preparing to showcase their hard work. While there’s plenty to get ready—from grooming to travel logistics—biosecurity is a crucial piece of the puzzle that shouldn't be overlooked.

To better understand how families can protect their livestock during fair season, I spoke with Joel DeRouchey, Kansas State University livestock specialist. He emphasized that fairs naturally bring together animals from different homes and operations—meaning there’s a heightened risk of disease transmission.

“It's natural that livestock get mixed together in close proximity,” DeRouchey said. “They come from all different families and locations. We can’t prevent that—it’s part of the fair experience. But there are steps we can take to minimize health risks.”

One key precaution is early identification and isolation of sick animals. If an animal appears unwell during the fair, DeRouchey advises working with a veterinarian to determine whether that animal should be quarantined or taken home. Quick response can prevent potential outbreaks.

Another often-overlooked risk comes from water sources. Communal water tanks—where all animals drink from the same container—may seem convenient, but they’re a hotspot for spreading illness.

“We really discourage the use of communal water tanks,” DeRouchey said. “If one animal is contagious, it can pass pathogens into the water and expose every animal that drinks from it afterward.”

In addition to monitoring animals and water, DeRouchey also recommends thorough cleaning of equipment, clothing, and footwear after the fair ends. This extra step can help reduce the chance of bringing pathogens back home and infecting other animals on the farm.

Whether you’re a seasoned show family or heading to the fair for the first time, remember that protecting animal health is just as important as the blue ribbons. A few careful steps can go a long way in ensuring everyone—human and animal—returns home healthy.