USDA Animal Disease Traceability Final RuLE
Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association is here to help individuals navigate the new U.S. Department of Agriculture animal disease traceability ruling going into effect Nov. 5.
What To Know
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) final rule for an animal disease traceability program is set to begin Nov. 5. Livestock producers will be required to implement tags that are both visibly and electronically readable.
This rule aims to enhance disease control by requiring advanced traceability measures for specific cattle, including sexually intact cattle at or over 18 months of age, while exempting others such as animals under 18 months and those headed directly to slaughter.
Who is impacted?
The rule applies to sexually intact cattle over 18 months old, all female dairy cattle, male dairy cattle born after March 11, 2013, and all cattle used in rodeo, shows or exhibitions crossing state lines.
What tags are accepted?
Currently, only 840 tags are approved for use.
What resources are available to cattle raisers?
TSCRA has developed a number of resources to help cattle raisers navigate the new rule. This includes in-person education events, an educational webinar, and handouts for cattle raisers. TSCRA has also worked with other industry partners to compile important links and information through the “resources” section below.
Coming Soon
Explore the issue
Cattlemen’s Column – The truth of traceability
By Carl Ray Polk Jr., TSCRA President
Upcoming Animal Disease Traceability Educational Events
TSCRA Animal Disease Traceability Webinar – Oct. 1
Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association will host a webinar on Oct. 1 at 7 p.m. to discuss the new USDA APHIS rule on animal disease traceability, which takes effect Nov. 5. The panel will cover topics such as electronic identification requirements, industry responsibilities, and resources for cattle raisers, including access to free tags.
TSCRA Educational Programs
Attend an upcoming TSCRA Ranch Gathering for a panel discussion on the newly finalized animal disease traceability rule. Learn directly from industry experts and get the latest insights on how this rule impacts the cattle industry.
Sept. 5 – Sulphur Springs
Oct. 10 – Fredericksburg
Oct. 15 – San Angelo
Oct. 24 – Brenham
Resources
Frequently Asked Questions – TSCRA Fact Sheet Coming Soon
Free RFID Tag Information – TAHC
How to Obtain a Premise ID – TAHC
Animal Disease Traceability Final Rule – USDA APHIS
Find a Tagging Site – InterstateLivestock.com