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USDA TB Listening Session and Breakout Meeting update

On Tuesday, December 16th, I attended the USDA Listening Session and Breakout Meeting on Tuberculosis. I want to thank everyone who called in to the Horn Wrap call that morning to give me excellent input for TB talking points. I raised the following noteworthy issues:

• USDA needs to isolate the TB problem. Mexico producers claim to test steers bound for the U.S., but we have reports from producers in the Southwest states that question the accuracy and credibility of the TB testing that is supposedly taking place in Mexico.

• Feeder steers and dairy heifers need to be segregated in feedyards. Mexican feeder steers and U.S. dairy heifers should NOT be comingled.

• Rodeo stock needs to be TB tested on an annual basis.

• As USDA finalizes its TB rules, it needs to take into consideration the TB mitigation measures that are currently being done in states like New Mexico.

• In the state of Washington, the process that involves “restricted feedyards” needs to be refined. “Restricted feedyards” feed Canadian steers that are imported without TB testing and will not be comingled. However, WA state producers report that a loophole allows these steers to enter WA livestock markets. It’s my understanding this issue is being addressed at the state level but that it remains an issue that needs to be addressed.

A point that really stood out was the fact that the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association and other industry groups can take a proactive role in ensuring Congress properly funds the TB eradication efforts. I learned at this meeting that each year USDA submits a white paper to members of the United States Animal Health Association during its annual meeting. This white paper outlines necessary additional TB funding. USDA runs into several hurdles anytime it requests specialized funding. This white paper helps clarify the funding needs. Industry groups can use this information to lobby Congress for additional funds. USCA and industry groups need to keep this in mind during next year’s USAHA meeting. Similar to the Fever Tick eradication efforts in Texas, if the federal funds are tied up and not delivered, then it hinders the ability of both the feds and states to properly carry out disease eradication efforts.

Another point that was made very clear: we are at least 10-15 years away from designing a better TB test. From the sounds of this meeting, cattle producers should not expect an upgraded TB test in the near future.

Tags: Jess Peterson, USDA

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