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SLO Ag Pass Training

San Luis Obispo County Fire is offering the Ag Pass program. This program identifies farm and ranch employees to first responders and emergency workers assigned to restrict public access to areas threatened during a fire and other disasters. The Ag Pass program allows limited emergency access to protect or care for agricultural assets and/or provide support information to emergency personnel. Your role does not involve fighting fire or acting as a first responder during disaster.

ELIGIBILITY

Individuals eligible for the program must be key personnel who have a working knowledge of the property, including access to irrigation systems, farm equipment, and other essential infrastructure.

Eligibility requirements must be met prior to training. The Ag Pass is only available for those in the SRA and only for commercial ag operations.

To obtain an Ag Pass you must attend the free training that covers basic fire behavior, communications during a disaster and incident command structure. PRWCA members are welcome to attend the training even if they do not meet the minimum requirements for the Ag Pass.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

Completed application and liability release along with one or more of the following:

Operator Identification Numbers
Membership in local industry association (e.g., PRWCA, Farm Bureau, Cattlemen’s Association)
A redacted “Schedule F” tax form
Assessor’s Parcel Numbers (APNs) to confirm agzone
Agricultural land lease documentation
Local Farm Services Agency office
CA Dept of Food and Ag (Bureau of Livestock ID)

Ag Pass cards will be issued before an emergency, not during. It will be limited to a maximum of 3 people per property; all of whom must participate in the required training. Ag Pass ID card possession does not grant any rights or privileges and does not guarantee access to the property. Imminent danger will negate access, ensuring protection to emergency crews and public from unnecessary exposure to risk which can happen if civilians enter dangerous zones and require rescue or protection.

Additional information and inquiries about program eligibility can be found at https://www.slocounty.ca.gov/Departments/Agriculture-Weights-and-Measures/Services/Ag-Pass.aspx