Period Extended for Input on US Animal ID Plan
December 4, 2003
The National Animal Identification Development Team has extended, through January 31, 2004, the opportunity for all interested individuals or groups within the animal agriculture industry and government to provide needed input to the on-going development of the U.S. Animal Identification Plan (USAIP). The USAIP defines the standards and framework for implementing a phased-in national animal identification system that will greatly enhance the traceback capability of animal health officials.
Currently, USAIP Species Working Groups are being formed to provide needed detail to the Plan including, but not limited to, infrastructure needs, preferred identification devices, and suggestions as to how current identification systems may be integrated into the Plan. Recognizing there are many details that need to be addressed within the various species, it is essential the Working Groups hear from industry stakeholders in order to best incorporate the suggestions and observations offered.
Unlike legislation recently passed requiring country of origin labeling at the retail level on packages of certain fruits, nuts and meats, the USAIP focuses on enhancing the nation's capability to accurately and effectively locate and trace individual animals and/or groups of animals within 48 hours should an animal health emergency arise. A copy of the Plan may be downloaded at www.usaip.info or a hard copy is available by calling (301) 734-5571.
Comments, suggestions and questions on the USAIP may be submitted via the web at www.USAIP.info; faxed to 719-538-8847; or mailed to USAIP Comments, 660 Southpointe Court, Suite 314, Colorado Springs, CO, 80906.
(The National Animal Identification Development Team comprises a diverse group of livestock industry participants including producers, producers organizations, breed associations, marketers, and processors as well as State and Federal animal health officials committed to the goal of developing a standardized national identification system to assist in rapid animal traceback regarding an animal health emergency.)
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Scott Stuart, USAIP Communication Subcommittee Co-Chair, 719-538-8843, or email at Communication@USAIP.info
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