North Dakota Group Seeks Branding Exemption for Canada Cattle

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Members of the North Dakota Holstein Association want the state to exempt Canadian dairy cattle from a branding requirement, relying instead on other forms of identification.

Canadian cattle shipped into North Dakota are required to be branded with the letters CAN, as part of an effort to stop the spread of diseases. The Holstein Association says the brand lowers the show value of the animals, and members have asked the state Board of Animal Health to waive the brand requirement for registered dairy cattle.

The Bismarck Tribune reports the cows have other markers indicating their country of origin, such as a radio-frequency identification tag and an ear tattoo.

Board members say they're worried about setting a dangerous precedent. They'll decide on the request later.