Farmers can participate in age verification program

Gary Sliworsky
Ag. Rep.

Since May 2003 the Canadian beef industry has been impacted from various trade restrictions. A number of Canadian key export markets are now demanding age verified cattle for import rights. For instance, the US will currently only allow under thirty month live cattle and beef for entry. Japan similarly requires beef from cattle that is age verified under 21 months. These new requirements place additional pressures on both producers and packer/processors.
The Ontario Cattlemen’s Association (OCA) has initiated a project to address the issue of age verification and additionally create a demand for Ontario cattle by enhancing health and quality of Ontario raised beef. This project is the Market Access Program (MAP).
Improving the quality and health of the Ontario cow herd is the first step in developing an improved end product. By raising the bar on both food safety and quality in tandem with meeting export market demands, the Ontario beef industry can expand its market share. Beef Improvement Ontario (BIO) has been contracted to administer the program on behalf of OCA.
Participation in the program is open to all beef producers in Ontario. There is a 3 step process to becoming qualified in the program:
1) Register the 2006 calf crop with BIO/CCIA
2) Commit to or have already completed a QSH-VBP course
3) Adhere to a vet approved vaccination program.
Application forms are available from the BIO website (www.biobeef.com ) or by phoning 1- 877- 2 VERIFI.
Age verification can be done through BIO or on the CCIA website. You may use the Herd SAVE website at BIO or submit a paper copy of the Herd SAVE form available from the BIO office. Simply mail in the form when completed. Submissions can also be made through BIO’s Herd Recording Program.
If using the CCIA website, provide the tag information to BIO with the application form for the MAP Program.
Everyone who age verifies cattle will provide these CCIA birth certificates to their clients and customers. The importance of making these birth certificates available to auction markets, dealers and packing plants cannot be emphasized enough. It forms a chain of custody to verify and trace the age of cattle throughout their life cycle.
Successful applicants will receive a MAP Credit .This credit may be used on the 2007 calf crop. A special 4 part tag system will be available for purchase to denote program participation. The MAP credits can only be realized against the purchase price of these tags from BIO or an authorized MAP Tag retailer. If qualifications are maintained, the credits will be available for the 2008 calf crop as well. Application for 2008 must be received by December 15, 2007 as the program ends on December 31, 2007.

Dates to Remember
Dec. 8 – RR Soil & Crop Annual meeting. 10:00 am, Emo Legion, lunch available for $6.50.