2007-2008 President's Report

April, 2008

This year marks the fifth year since Yuba Sutter Domestic Animal Disaster Assistance was established.  Although no major disasters occurred locally, our volunteers proved their readiness to respond.

Both Sutter and Yuba County Emergency Services contacted YSDADA this year to determine our availability to assist when weather-related problems occurred in our area.  Last summer, we were contacted as the need was evaluated for establishment of a "Cooling Station" due to a period of extreme heat.  The severe windstorm in January resulted in the loss of power needed to provide water for livestock and heat for residents.  Such events demonstrate the necessity for disaster preparedness by individuals and local government; it's not just for fire and flood anymore.

While it is true that YSDADA and its volunteers are ready and able to activate in a disaster, several critical issues are yet to be resolved.  One of the achievements during this fiscal year was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Three Rivers Chapter of the American Red Cross.  Still to be completed are similar MOUs with both Sutter and Yuba counties' Offices of Emergency Services.  We are in the midst of developing a MOU with the Humane Society of the United States as well as a Mutual Aid Agreement with Butte County's North Valley Animal Disaster Group.

One of the highlights of 2008 was the launch of our website.  A program to recruit volunteers to assist with the day-to-day duties in the YSDADA office was implemented.  In addition to the development of those MOUs and MAs, YSDADA volunteers are encouraged to increase their ability to act in numerous and varied capacities within the organization.  YSDADA has begun to seek financial support through grant applications although we will continue to rely primarily on local organizations and individuals to support our commitment to serve the Y-S area.

While we hope for a quiet year relative to disasters, we urge animal owners to prepare now for the real possibility that this could be "The Year" for a major event.  The only way to assure a successful outcome is to plan ahead.  We invite you to join us in getting the word out.