Department of Agriculture
Julius Johnson, Commissioner

In early 2010 the USDA National Animal Identification System (NAIS) was replaced with the Animal Disease Traceability Program, administered by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture. The focus of the new program is animal identification and it will be funded by the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program and funds supplied through a cooperative agreement with USDA.

Beginning July 1, 2010, identification data will be entered directly from the livestock market into a new Tennessee animal health database via a website rather than by e-mail. Instructions on the use of the new system are coming soon.

While supplies last, Tennessee accredited veterinarians may order free 840 RFID tags from USDA, APHIS, VS, P.O. Box 110950, Nashville, TN 37211; Attn: Mr. Billy Graham. Call 615-781-5310 or e-mail Billy.M.Graham@aphis.usda.gov for more information. Participating veterinarians must have a location identifier number for their business address. The national nine (9) digit metal ear-tags (i.e. brucellosis tags) are also available to the accredited veterinarian from the same address. The accredited veterinarian must submit a report, preferably by e-mail, of tags applied or reassigned within 10 days of the date of application or reassignment. If e-mail is not possible, regular mail or fax are acceptable.

Any herd with 840 RFID tags, must have a location identifier number or a completed premises location application form. The premises location number or a completed application form must accompany the initial report of tag use.

The 840 RFID tags may not be used in the age and source Verified Incentive Program (VIP) since the owner is getting reimbursed already for tags used in that program.

Currently, the USDA tags may be used for any identification need except age and source (VIP) cattle. However, their use or reassignment must be reported, using the identification tag distribution form which will be supplied to you with your tag orders.

New Cost Share Programs for Accredited Veterinarians in FY/2011

1. Electronic Health Certificate Program

This program is a new addition to the TAEP's cost share opportunities. It reimburses up to $400 of the yearly service costs to practicing accredited veterinarians who use the electronic health certificate system for one year. The health certificate is entered directly into the database by the accredited veterinarian where, it will be accessible to the State Veterinarian's office, but requires no additional handling. The cost saving potential of this program is significant and will be an important addition for all participants when implemented. Service providers include: Global Vet Link at www.globalvetlink.com/#vets and USDA at https://vsps.aphis.usda.gov/vsps/.

2. Breeding Soundness and Pregnancy Examinations

This is another new cost share program from TAEP, providing a cost share incentive to cattle producers to establish an on-going herd health program for breeding soundness and pregnancy examinations. Cattle in this program must be individually identified with 840 RFID tags or other official permanent identification.

For more information, visit TAEP Veterinarian Equipment.