The full implementation of a National Animal Identification System is not too far in the future. As with any program implemented by the government, it depends on funding.

One way to possibly cut costs is to use one tag for more than one purpose. For example, in Wyoming it is required to vaccinate all females for Brucellosis before 12 months of age. At the time of vaccination, the vet that administers the shot also places an orange metal tag in the right ear of the cow along with a tattoo. One idea that the Wyoming Livestock Board has explored is to replace the metal tag with an electronic ID tag so it can be read with a scanner. Thus, every cow in Wyoming would have an NAIS compatible tag serving more than one purpose.

Retention of these tags in the ear of a cow is sometimes a concern, but this issue is not impossible. Currently the metal tag (brucellosis tag) does provide trace back, however it is time consuming because of the recording process. The electronic tags are now possible and would bring us quicker results in our technology driven society. I think it is great to be able to discuss these issues and how they affect us whether positive or negative. What a great country we live in!

Hope you all have a wonderful and safe 4th of July!