Agroterrorism: Threats and Preparedness
Abstract
The potential for terrorist attacks against agricultural targets (agroterrorism) is increasingly recognized as a national security threat, especially after the events of September 11, 2001. Agroterrorism is a subset of bioterrorism, and is defined as the deliberate introduction of an animal or plant disease with the goal of generating fear, causing economic losses, and/or undermining social stability. The goal of agroterrorism is not to kill cows or plants. These are the means to the end of causing economic damage, social unrest, and loss of confidence in government. While agriculture may not be a terrorist's first choice because it lacks the shock factor of more traditional terrorist targets, many analysts consider it a viable secondary target. Agriculture poses unique vulnerabilities. In the past five years, food defense has received increasing attention in the counterterrorism and bioterrorism communities. Congress has held hearings on agroterrorism and enacted laws and appropriations with agroterrorism-related provisions. The executive branch has responded by implementing the new laws, issuing several presidential directives, and creating liaison and coordination offices. Agriculture now receives about 2.1% of the total non-defense budget authority for homeland security. This report will be updated as events warrant.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 12, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA466625
Entities
People
- Jim D. Monke
Organizations
- Library of Congress