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Scrapie Eradication Program Meetings

October 26, 2006

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Maine Scrapie Board and Department Animal Health Officials propose intrastate movement requirements as required Under the US Department of Agriculture's Scrapie Eradication Program

The Department’s Division of Animal Health & Industry will hold a series of public meetings to discuss Maine’s participation in the US Department of Agriculture’s Scrapie Eradication Program for sheep and goats. Animal Health officials and members of the Maine Scrapie Board are proposing this rule to ensure that Maine sheep and goats remain free of Scrapie Disease. The United States Department of Agriculture requires all states to impose intrastate movement rules on change of ownership for sheep and goats to be consistent with its Scrapie Eradication Program in accordance with 9 CFR, Part 79.  It also ensures the ability of sheep and goat owners wishing to move their animals across state lines for any purpose.

”This proposed rule is a requirement for Maine to become a “Scrapie consistent” state under the USDA National Scrapie Eradication Program,” said Don Hoenig, State Veterinarian. “I want to make certain that people understand why we are proposing this rule, and, I want to assure sheep and goat owners that this proposed rule is specific to the Scrapie Eradication Program and does not in any way obligate Maine or Maine producers to participate in the National Animal Identification System.

The following meetings are planned:

For more information, please contact the Division of Animal Health & Industry at 287-3701.