This is a print on demand edition of a hard to find publication. American agriculture represents a "soft" target for terrorists. The single greatest threat to our agricultural economy is foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). An outbreak of this highly-contagious viral disease would have a catastrophic effect, including cessation of beef exports, full-scale quarantines, possible destruction of millions of animals, stop-movement orders, and economic chaos. Five primary groups are considered to be threats to agriculture: internat. terrorists, domestic terrorists, militant animal rights groups, economic opportunists, and disgruntled employees. This in-depth study determined law enforcement's role in protecting against acts of agro-terrorism. Conclusion: Law enforcement has insufficient resources to adequately respond to a FMD outbreak.

The United States' vast agricultural landscape is not just a source of food, but also an integral part of its economy, social fabric, and national security. "Securing America's Harvest" delves deep into the emerging threat of agro-terrorism and the pivotal role of law enforcement in countering such perils to ensure the safety and sustainability of American agriculture. Key aspects covered in this insightful tome include: The Concept of Agro-Terrorism: Defining the term and understanding its implications, this section delves into the history of bioterrorism targeting agriculture and outlines potential future threats. America's Vulnerable Points: An exploration of the US agricultural system's weak spots, from production to processing to distribution, that could be potential targets for terrorists. The Economic and Social Impact: Analyzing the far-reaching consequences of a successful agro-terrorism attack, this section highlights the domino effect on the economy, job market, food prices, and overall public confidence. Law Enforcement's Role: A comprehensive overview of current strategies, methodologies, and collaborative efforts between local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to thwart threats and respond efficiently to incidents. International Cooperation: Addressing the global nature of agro-terrorism, this section underscores the importance of international partnerships, intelligence sharing, and coordinated response mechanisms. Prevention and Preparedness: Offering a roadmap for strengthening the nation's defenses against agro-terrorism, including the roles of technology, surveillance, farmer education, and policy reforms. Real-Life Incidents and Case Studies: Detailed examinations of actual and thwarted agro-terrorism incidents provide invaluable lessons and insights for future prevention. "Securing America's Harvest" is a timely and crucial exploration of the risks, challenges, and solutions associated with protecting one of the nation's most vital sectors. For law enforcement professionals, policymakers, agricultural stakeholders, and the general public, this book shines a light on a shadowy threat and the relentless efforts to keep America's food system secure.