Scrapie standards set

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The Department of Agriculture established a list of states that conduct effective state scrapie control programs consistent with USDA regulations, implementing new interstate movement, identification, and indemnity requirements for sheep and goats. All 50 states have agreed to abide by the new regulations.

This final rule will require identification of mature sheep, breeding sheep, and breeding goats moving interstate and will reinstate an indemnity program for certain sheep and goats affected by scrapie. Producers who move sheep and goats in interstate commerce should contact their local USDA Veterinary Services office to have tag numbers assigned. Additional information on the USDA scrapie program may be found at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/scrapie.

The final rule states: "The compliance date for all requirements to identify animals that are not scrapie-positive animals, suspect animals, high-risk animals, exposed animals, or animals from an infected or source flock is Nov. 19.

"The compliance date for all requirements for the identification of commercial whitefaced breeding sheep under 18 months of age, and commercial breeding goats is Feb. 19."

After publication in the Federal Register, the rule became effective on Sept. 20. APHIS documents published in the Federal Register and related information, including the names of organizations and individuals who have commented on APHIS dockets, are available at www.aphis.usda.gov/ppd/rad/webrepor.html.