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National Animal Identification System

Contact: Michael Cahill, Director at Michael.Cahill@state.ma.us - 617.626.1794

In an effort to ensure animal and human health, and to protect the economic interests of the agricultural community, the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) is working to achieve the objectives set forth by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for the National Animal Identification System (NAIS). Due to an increase in the number of disease outbreaks reported globally, a need for an efficient tracking system has arisen. USDA’s goal is to have a system that will enable tracebacks of diseased animals to occur within 48-hours of discovery of an outbreak.

The NAIS program consists of three key components: 1. Premises Identification; 2. Animal Identification; and 3. Animal Tracking. Upon registration, the premises will receive an identification number that will become a component of the animal identification number. Through these unique numbers officials will be able to quickly trace the movement of animals thereby identifying potential exposure as well as the source of a disease.

For the purpose of properly containing and combating diseases, it is important to identify and safeguard the hobby breeder as well as the large producer. Diseases can be transmitted from one premise to another through direct contact with an infected animal or indirect contact via tainted shoes, hands and equipment. Knowing where animals are kept enhances the ability to minimize damage from natural or intentional acts that impact animal and human health and the economic well being of the agricultural community.

MDAR is currently collecting premise registration information and uploading it into the USDA’s database. Registration may be achieved by completing a registration form. Premises where animals are kept are encouraged to register. There is no fee associated with premise registration.

On March 3, 2006 the USDA announced the implementation of the animal identification number (AIN) for individual cattle and swine. Information regarding the guidelines for the manufacture and distribution of official identification devices can be found at USDA’s web site.

The AIN portion of the program allows for animals to be identified either individually with a unique animal identification number or, if they are managed and moved through the production chain as a group with a group/lot identification number. Animals will be identified through methods most appropriate for each species.

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS) will publish updates as they become available and MDAR will make updates information available on its website www.mass/gov/agr.

MDAR recognizes the challenges the NAIS program may present to the small operation or the hobbyist and it is committed to working with the agricultural community to find acceptable solutions during implementation.