Rural communities are not immune to catastrophic earthquake damage, and when the next big temblor strikes California, rural residents should be prepared to fend for themselves, according to a UC Davis agricultural engineer. Farmers and ranchers should be preparing now to care for themselves, their families and their animals for at least a two-week period, advises William Steinke, a Cooperative Extension agricultural engineer and farm safety specialist. Following a disastrous earthquake, the majority of the state's emergency resources, including power and water, will be directed toward meeting the needs of urban dwellers, according to Steinke. Consequently, rural residents should stockpile emergency food and medical supplies, keep generators and portable cooking units on hand, and make sure that items necessary for animal care are accessible. Furthermore, Steinke suggests farmers seriously consider re-enforcing structures such as homes, barns and processing areas.