ruby astleford
01/02/2004 05:37 PM
To:
regulations@aphis.usda.gov
cc:
bcc:
Subject:
Docket No. 03-080-1
To: Regulatory Analysis and Development
PPD, APHIS, Station 3 C71
4700 River Road Unit 11Riverdale, MD 20737-1238
As cow/calf producers, we are VERY concerned about the APHIS`s proposed reopening of the Canadian border to live cattle and beef products, especially now, inlight of the BSE infected cow found Dec 23 , in the US , wearing a Canadian tag. We are concerned that APHIS-USDA wants to re-open the border because, in their view, these Canadian BSE cases are a North American problem. This is NOT a North American issue, it is two
seporate issues. Us and Canada.
It is an absolute insult to us and our industry to state otherwise, and we highly oppose any action that threatens the health of the UNITED STATES cattle herds and tarnishes our reputation as UNITED STATES cattle producers.
Not only by opening the Canadian border, we as producers are exposed to BSE (obviously) but also creating a captive supply of continuous beef/live cattle which is and has been used aginst our domestic supply to lower and minipulate our US cattle markets. Sence the Canadian Cattle stopped being imported over the boarder, Captive supplies have decreased, and our Cattle prices rose dramatically. Simple elimantry math.
With BSE discovered and that the animal was fortunately wearing a canadian tag for quick identification and origin, WHAT MORE PROOF do you need thatimplementing country of origin labeling should be manditory--not only for the reputation of the US cattle industry, but for the choice and protection of the U S consumer. Japan and Korea, our two main trade partners have made it perfectly clear they want US beef only, and labeled as such.
Please consider the above,
Leo and Rm Astleford
White River SD
USDA is suposed to stand for United States Department of Ag, not North American: