FEEDBACK is being sought from dairy goat producers on the removal of the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) tagging exemption for dairy goats.
NLIS Sheep and Goats was introduced on in 2006. However, under the NLIS Sheep and Goats National Business Rules, dairy goats have been exempt from tagging for property-to-property movements.
Goat Industry Council of Australia (GICA) president Rick Gates said the council remains firmly committed to strengthening the current NLIS sheep and goat traceability system.
“GICA has identified a number of opportunities to improve the visual NLIS traceability program across the goat industry,” Mr Gates said.
“GICA, with input from the Dairy Goat Society of Australia (DGSA), commissioned a desktop study on NLIS Tagging Options for Australian Dairy Goats.”
The study included a review of published literature and a survey of tagging procedures from four large-scale goat dairies operating in Australia, with a collective total of over 6300 goats tagged.
The survey results suggested that a successful tag retention rate with minimal/no infection, may be achieved in dairy goats if the following procedures are implemented:
– The tag is clean and is applied in a clean environment.
– Disinfectant is used on the tag and applicator.
– The tag is inserted in the correct position of the ear.
– Ongoing monitoring of tag retention rates and management of causes of loss.
The NLIS is described Australia’s system for identifying and tracing sheep and goats for biosecurity, food safety, product integrity and market access purposes.
CLICK HERE for more information on the consultation plan. Submissions are close on March 15.
