Indiana Recognizes Michigan's Bovine TB Status

LANSING - May 19/05 - MFB -- The Indiana State Board of Animal Health has agreed to recognize Michigan's split-state bovine tuberculosis (TB) status under U.S. Department of Agriculture standards. As a result, some cattle entering Indiana from Michigan face fewer import restrictions as of May 14.

A month ago, the Minnesota Board of Animal Health took similar action, effectively reopening trade to cattle from the state's Modified Accredited Advanced Upper Peninsula (UP) zone and the Modified Accredited Advanced zone of the Lower Peninsula.

"These actions reflect the hard work of Michigan's cattlemen and veterinarians to eradicate TB and prove the health status of our herds through statewide testing," said Ernie Birchmeier, Michigan Farm Bureau livestock and dairy specialist. "It's reassuring to know that more of our Midwest trading partners share our confidence in the health of our exports."

Under the new rule, most cattle and bison older than 18 months from Michigan's Modified Accredited Advanced zone no longer require an annual whole-herd TB test. However, they must have a negative individual TB test within 60 days prior to entering Indiana. The testing age drops to six months for sexually intact females of dairy breeds (including crossbreeds) from this region.

Subscribers can read the full text of the article by Clicking here