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Beginning Oct. 27, 2003, farmed-cervid owners will have the opportunity to import into Indiana cervidae that meet specific health requirements, under an importation permit issued by the office of the Indiana State Veterinarian.
The specific criteria for importation was adopted by members of the Indiana State Board of Animal Health, during their July 2003 meeting, following a public hearing and comment period. The new importation rules mark the end of an 18-month moratorium on all cervidae imports to Indiana.
The criteria was designed, based on the best science available, to allow viable economic trade while preventing the entry of chronic wasting disease into Indiana via the farmed cervid population.
A summary of the key criteria for cervid importation can be viewed on line by clicking here. The full text of Indiana's importation laws may be found at 345 IAC 1-3.
The new rule, taking effect on Oct. 27, 2003, also establishes restrictions on what portions of a dead cervid (whether the source is wild or farm-raised) may be brought into Indiana from another state or province.
The restrictions stem from concern that improper disposal and/or handling of some carcass parts may present an opportunity for chronic wasting disease (CWD) to be introduced into Indiana. If followed, the new rule minimizes the risk of accidental introduction to Indiana's wild and domestic deer populations.
A summary of restrictions on cervid carcasses and parts can be viewed on line by clicking here.
For additional information, contact the Indiana State Board of Animal Health Cattle & Ruminant Division at (317) 544-2397 or email animalhealth@boah.in.gov.