New Mexico Livestock Board Update

NEW MEXICO LIVESTOCK BOARD

by Shawn Davis Executive Director

2021 No Cost Scrapie Testing For Your Flock

The New Mexico Livestock Board is performing scrapie surveillance testing on sheep between 1.5-5 years of age that meet the genetic profile (black-faced/ mottle-faced meat sheep and their crosses) at NO COST to the producer. Sampling consists of drawing blood and performing a biopsy. New Mexico is a scrapie-free state, but needs to test to maintain its scrapie-free status.

If interested contact the New Mexico Livestock Board at 505/841-6161 or email Dr. Alexandra Eckhoff at alexandra.eckhoff@ state.nm.us. ▫

Peeled Brands

The New Mexico Livestock Board (NMLB) wants to assist with ease of inspection for legal movement and sale. In order to do so, the NMLB reminds New Mexico livestock producers what qualifies as legal livestock ownership based upon New Mexico brand laws. Pursuant to 77-9-5 NMSA 1978, evidence of livestock ownership is based upon the presence of a “peeled” brand unless otherwise allowed by law. In order to help protect the livestock industry, the NMLB is enforcing the provision of a “peeled” brand on a more consistent basis.

At this time, the NMLB is providing notice to New Mexico producers regarding what has been determined to be a lawful peeled brand. Please see the applicable branding practices and New Mexico state statutes below. Taking necessary steps to ensure livestock is exhibiting legal ownership brands will assist the NMLB when performing inspections and will help ensure livestock continues to be transported and sold timely and legally across our state.

The NMLB is here to serve the producers of New Mexico and will gladly answer any questions regarding the livestock code. Please contact:

New Mexico Livestock Board

2105 Osuna Rd NE, South Building Albuquerque, NM 87113

Phone: (505) 841-6161 Fax: (505) 841-6160 Entry Permit Line: (800) 432-6889

www.nmlbonline.com ▫