The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association is working to develop an industry-based national animal identification system. CEO Terry Stokes says this is a top priority for NCBA members.

Cut #1     :28        Outcue: "...national animal identification"

Stokes said an industry-based system, rather than one that is government-operated, will offer many advantages for livestock producers.

Cut #2     :25        Outcue: "...through a competitive process."

To maximize producer input, NCBA formed an Animal ID Commission, including cattlemen from Alabama, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and Texas.

Cut #3     :15        Outcue: "...including cattle."

This week, NCBA announced that a team led by BearingPoint, Inc., will be the lead technology partner for the animal ID system.

Cut #4     :41        Outcue: "...of this system."

Stokes says the system can add value for producers, but also meet government needs in the event of an animal health emergency.

Cut #5     :12        Outcue: "...needs for traceback."

Despite some claims to the contrary, NCBA will not profit from the system it is developing.

Cut #6     :24        Outcue: "...for our cattle herd."