I’ve been meaning to write about this but had hoped to have more information by now. All I’ve seen is this one release and an endorsement from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. There’s a little more information in this story from the Brownfield Network. So, here’s what I know and now you do too.
Charles Miller, Chairman
United States Animal Identification Organization (USAIO)
January 11, 2006
“I am pleased to announce the formation of the United States Animal Identification Organization (USAIO). The USAIO is a nonprofit, independent organization working with every segment of animal industry and animal health authorities to manage the industry-led animal identification movement database as prescribed by the National Animal Identification System (NAIS) plan.
“The first board meeting was held January 10, 2006, where members of the board were elected. The board of directors will be expanded as various industry groups formally adopt the USAIO as their database repository for animal movement data needed for the NAIS. Initial directors are:
Charles Miller, Nicholasville, Ky., cow-calf producer
Rick Stott, Boise, Idaho, beef producer
Lance Kuck, Bassett, Neb., bison producer
“This organization looks forward to working closely with industry and animal health authorities to move the NAIS forward in a positive, proactive way. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been submitted by the USAIO to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to form a strategic partnership and fulfill Secretary Johanns’ directive for the industry to develop the database repository. USAIO looks forward to engaging all the interested parties to provide an effective, efficient, and inexpensive database for the NAIS.”
Here’s part of the statement from the current NCBA President.
“I am pleased to see oversight of the animal movement database resting in such capable and experienced hands. But I am also proud that NCBA has fulfilled the directive we were issued by our members – to bring this database to fruition, then allow an independent consortium to assume management responsibility for it.
“We’ve overcome a lot of obstacles, not to mention critics. But while others only talk about the issue, NCBA rose to the challenge and provided a solution. Our members can all be proud of that. We understand U.S. cattlemen need an animal ID solution today – not several years down the road..”
Jim McAdams, President
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association