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Dairy Pipeline: March 2005
Charles C. Stallings
Extension Dairy Scientist,
Nutrition and Forage Quality
(540) 231-3066
email: cstallin@vt.edu
The stated goal of the national program coordinated by the United States Department of Agriculture is to "identify all animals and premises that have had contact with a foreign animal disease or a domestic disease of concern within 48 hours after discovery". It is a voluntary program that will be conducted by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) with support from Virginia Cooperative Extension. The first phase in 2005 involves premise registration. If you have a location (premise) that has domestic animals that leave the farm at some point in their life, this program is for you and you are encouraged to participate. In March Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Agents will undergo training on how this system will work. After this time premise registration can begin. Premises can be registered by filling out a paper form and submitting it to VDACS or by direct web access. After registration a seven character premise ID number will be issued. Extension agents can assist with the process and will be conducting meetings to discuss the program. At some point animals will be identified and connected to the premise. This part of the program is under development and will not occur until later in 2005 or beyond. At some point it is possible for the program to become mandatory but even if it does not there will likely be enhanced value for animals that have traceability. Virginia dairy farmers have been identifying their animals and production testing for many years. This system will continue that emphasis and contribute to a safe food supply for all.