Alpena, MI - A fifth cattle herd in Michigan's northeast, lower peninsula has been quarantined while officials conduct tests to see if any farm animals have contracted bovine tuberculosis.
Although no livestock have so far tested positive, state officials are checking dairy and beef herds in five counties around Alpena that may have contracted the disease from TB-infected deer.
The testing and a state effort to reduce the deer herd are designed to protect the TB-free certification from the U.S. Department of Agriculture that Michigan's cattle industry has enjoyed since 1979.
Loss of certification could cost farmers millions of dollars.
John Molesworth, a regional Michigan State University extension agent, says today the latest quarantine was ordered on a Presque Isle County dairy farm after four cows were found to be "suspected reactors. "
It could be weeks before tests are complete on cattle from the five quarantined herds labeled "suspected reactors." In all 14 animals received the label; five have been destroyed.
So far more than 125 herds have been tested for TB in the region. Molesworth says it may be another year before all livestock has been tested.
Press for Information on Placing Your Ad Here
Meat Industry Insights News Service
P.O. Box 553
Northport, NY 11768
Phone: 631-757-4010
Fax: 631-757-4060
E-mail: sflanagan@sprintmail.com
Web Site: http://www.spcnetwork.com/mii