8Ton
Member
Speaking with my extension agent, he mentioned he does not allow any tobacco use in the fields/greenhouses or while handling tobacco because of tobacco mosaic virus. He also said 70-80% of most commercial processed tobacco products (cigarettes) contain TMV. I smoke a pipe and cigars occasionally, but not cigarettes so this isn't much a issue for me. But, some of my farm hands/workers are cigarette smokers. Reading this article, TMV sounds like a tough one. How do y'all prevent TMV? Do you now allow tobacco use in the field? What about while seeding trays? Near greenhouses? How far must should I take this? I am assuming if TMV is that stable a virus that a heavy cigarette smoker would have it on their clothing, not just hands. If a farm worker takes a smoke break and then washes just their hands, is that enough?
When we have other livestock farmers visit our farm, we sanitize their boots before walking into our pastures, so I'm no stranger to biosecurity for my livestock.
http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/common_question_and_answers_about_tobacco_mosaic_virus
When we have other livestock farmers visit our farm, we sanitize their boots before walking into our pastures, so I'm no stranger to biosecurity for my livestock.
http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/common_question_and_answers_about_tobacco_mosaic_virus