10/18/07 Two new animal i-d systems

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has approved two more devices for the national animal identification system. One is a visual tag with radio frequency identification and the other is the first ever approved injectable transponder, both of which carry an animal identification number. KNIGHT "This maximizes options for farmers and ranchers around the country as to which things they can utilize." Undersecretary Bruce Knight says USDA is not favoring one device or method over another. In fact there are eight different types of animal ID systems in the open market that have government approval. KNIGHT "What we have embraced is a concept of technology neutrality so an injectable will work, a button ear tag will work, a visual panel tag, all will work." Knight says they make sure that systems they approve fit in with international standards so that producers can benefit from technologies that are interchangeable. KNIGHT "The more options that are out there the more consumer demand and the lower cost there will be. What we want to do is have as much competition in the marketplace as possible, drive down the cost of our FID so that it becomes a very nominal impact on the producers who are utilizing it." Voice of Idaho Agriculture Bill Scott