Agri-news

Gary Sliworsky,
Ag. Rep.

Canadian sheep now have an identification program similar to the one being used for beef. The Canadian Sheep Identification Program (CSIP) is an industry-led initiative to develop a trace back system that will address producer concerns about sheep health and meet consume expectations for quality assurance and food safety.
The Program meshes with existing and planned identification systems for other ruminant and livestock species in Canada. Animal identification provides the ability to trace animals in order to control the spread of disease and provide safe food to consumers. Although the national flock currently enjoys a highly rated health status, a disease outbreak can occur at any time. National identification is also essential for the development of effective disease eradication programs.
The Program began on January 1st, 2004 and is mandatory. The CSIP is governed by the federal Health of Animals Act and will be enforced by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Monetary penalties ($500.00 and up) will be implemented for non-compliance.
As of January 1, 2004 all sheep and lambs must bear an approved CSIP ear tag before they leave their farm of origin and any subsequent premises. This includes animals leaving the premises temporarily (for example: exhibitions, veterinarian clinics, community pastures). It will be illegal to transport or receive untagged animals.
The Program has a number of guidelines for sheep producers.
Ensure that an approved CSIP ear tag is applied to all sheep and lambs on your premises before they leave the farm.
Keep a record of all sheep or lambs entering your flock for breeding purposes and all sheep 18 months or older leaving your farm, other than those sold directly to a federally or provincially inspected abattoir.
Imported sheep must have a Canadian approved national identification tag applied within 7 days of arrival.
All animals purchased must bear an approved CSIP ear tag. If a tag is subsequently lost, you must immediately apply a new approved CSIP ear tag and record the identification number with as much information about the origin of the animal as is known.
Approved CSIP ear tags must not be removed from any live animal or tampered with for any reason and must not be re-used. If an animal dies on your property, the tag should be removed, saved and recorded with the cause of death if known.
Producers are responsible for tagging sheep and lambs before the animals leave their premises and will be held accountable if they fail to do so.
For more information contact The Canadian Sheep Federation at 1-888-684-7739 or visit their website at www.cansheep.ca

Dates to Remember
Jan.13 - RR Soil & Crop Improvement Association Annual Meeting, Morley Municipal Building, 7:00 p.m.
Jan.21 - RR Cattlemen's Association Annual Meeting, Stratton, 7:00 p.m.