USDA Still Asking Questions About Animal Identification

Wednesday in Washington, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack held a roundtable discussion with a variety of stakeholders on the National Animal Identification System. The event kicks off a listening tour to gather feedback and input that will assist the Secretary in making decisions about the future direction of animal identification and traceability in the United States. USDA not only heard stakeholders concerns but potential or feasible solutions to those concerns.

Secretary Vilsack says, - many of the issues and concerns that were initially raised by producers, such as the cost, impact on small farmers, privacy and confidentiality and liability, continue to cause debate. He added, - we need to work collaboratively to resolve concerns and move forward with animal traceability.

The listening tour will seek input from communities throughout the country. And, in the coming weeks, USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service will also publish a notice in the Federal Register to request input.