05/10/06 Animal ID debate

I.D. Debate Animal ID is receiving a lot of attention lately, but not everyone is ready to embrace the idea. I'm Jeff Keane; I'll be back in one minute with some comments. Recently the National Animal Identification System discussion is using up a lot of ink in all kinds of publications plus occupying a lot of time in local coffee shop male bovine waste sessions and on national debate panels. I think the unknown and uncertainty of the program provides the discussion fuel. Advocates of the system say it is absolutely necessary to track animals contributing to meat protein supplies. Beef packers seem to be behind the ID plan since they will be able to verify source of processed cattle. Funny they really aren't advocates of Country of Origin Labeling, isn't it? Health officials state an identification system is imperative to trace origins and movements of infected animals in case of a disease outbreak. The USDA says our program will be in place by 2009 and has stated on different occasions it will be voluntary. How can such a program have a chance at success if it is not mandatory? Animal identification companies are licking their profit lips over the idea of selling new tagging systems complete with tools and technology. But there are many cattle producers with concerns that include true confidentiality, cost, actual need, plus labor and management expenditures. For some it comes down to the fact it is hard for American ranchers to be cataloged and give up individuality. I'm Jeff Keane.