October 19, 2007

Holstein Association USA gets nod for Animal Tracking Database

The US Department of Agriculture and Holstein Association USA have inked a cooperative agreement giving official approval to National FAIR (Farm Animal Identification and Records) as a compliant Animal Tracking Database under the USDA Animal Trace Processing System.

The Holstein Association is among the first in the US to be recognized by USDA/APHIS as an official Animal Tracking Database.

Through National FAIR, Holstein Association USA has one of the largest animal databases in the world, totalling more than 5 million animals.

USDA would post a request for pertinent animal tracking information for animal urgency matters while the Holstein Association would query the National FAIR database to determine where the animals in question have been. Information provided to USDA would be the animal identification number, premises ID and the event type and date. This system will help ensure data is shared quickly and confidentially with USDA only when needed.

The Vermont-based Holstein Association provides products and services to dairy producers to enhance genetics and improve profitability. It represents more than 30,000 members throughout the US. The association is also leading the initiative for national animal identification through the National FAIR program.