MDOL extends comment period on draft brucellosis plan

MDOL extends comment period on draft brucellosis plan

DOL – The Montana Department of Livestock is extending the public comment period on its draft Brucellosis Action Plan by three weeks through Saturday, November 1.

State veterinarian Dr. Martin Zaluski said the public has expressed “significant interest” in the plan and is asking for more time to comment.

“This has been a consistent message I’ve been hearing,” Zaluski said. “People want more time to evaluate the plan, ask questions and comment.”

The draft plan, which is required by the USDA’s Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service for reinstatement of brucellosis class free status, defines management areas for the state and outlines strategies for each area based on the level of risk:

Area 1 – Special Focus Area (elevated exposure potential);
Area 2 – Assurance Area (minimal or no exposure potential);
Area 3 – Area of No/Unlikely Exposure Potential.

The draft plan, complete with maps and Frequently Asked Questions, is available on the department’s web site at http://liv.mt.gov/. Copies of the plan also will be available at livestock markets throughout the state, and from producer groups that participated in developing the draft plan (Montana Cattleman’s Association, Montana Stockgrowers Association, Montana Farm Bureau and Montana Farmers Union).

Public comment on the draft plan can be submitted via email to [email protected], or via postal mail to Department of Livestock, Draft Brucellosis Plan Comments, PO BOX 202001, Helena MT 59620-2001.