In
order to jump-start a national animal identification system,
USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
recently announced it is accepting funding applications
from state and tribal governments to support initial implementation
of the plan. More than $11 million will be available
to implement the ID system for all livestock and poultry
animals on ranches and farms.
The
idea for a national animal identifcation program sprang
from the discovery of a cow with BSE in the United States
in December, 2003. Dr. Ron DeHaven, APHIS Administrator,
says a national animal ID program will better equip the
government and industry with the means necessary to quickly
control a variety of animal disease outbreaks and reduce
the economic impacts on the market for producers and processors.
The funding from USDA is expected to help establish the
ID system. A universal animal identifcation system
would allow industry to quickly and efficiently trace an
animal's origin, if a food safety or health issue arises.
About
20 projects will be selected. Applications must be
received by July 15. More information is available
on the APHIS web site at:
www.aphis.usda.gov/mrpbs/fmd/agreements_announcements.html. |
