December 19, 2007

USDA intensifies animal ID system

The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service reported 429,600 premises registered under the National Animal Identification System (NAIS).

This month, Nebraska became the 10th state to register at least 50 percent of its total estimated production agriculture premises under NAIS.

USDA improvised the system to retrieve traceback data within 48 hours to contain the spread of animal diseases. Factors contributing to the increase in registrations include fast and easy registration process which could be done through phone and direct mail outreach.

Other states that have topped the 50 percent mark include Idaho, Indiana, Michigan, Nevada, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Utah and Wisconsin.