The Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) is announcing a new rule requiring official identification for goats that are transported within the state.

This change will create consistency with surrounding states and with the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Traceability and Scrapie rule, allowing for traceability and easier interstate movement of goats. TDA will be working with goat owners and industry stakeholders to gain compliance by July 1.

This rule is for identification purposes only. There are no additional testing or reporting requirements related to scrapie.

Scrapie is a fatal, degenerative disease affecting the central nervous system of sheep and goats. Although there is no evidence that scrapie poses a risk to human health, there is no cure or treatment for the disease in livestock at this time.

“Scrapie is a serious disease that must be eradicated,” State Veterinarian Dr. Charlie Hatcher said. “Having official identification for our goats in Tennessee will significantly improve the chances of accomplishing that goal.”

The most commonly used form of identification for goats is a scrapie tag. Tennessee sheep and goat producers can order this metal ear tag for free through the National Scrapie Eradication Program (NSEP) by calling the local USDA office at 615-781-5314.

The NSEP has reduced the prevalence of scrapie in adult sheep sampled at slaughter by more than 99 percent. Sheep and goat producers who tag their livestock are critical to maintaining traceability and eliminating the last few cases in the United States. Producers are urged to enroll in the NSEP.

The state veterinarian is responsible for monitoring for and preventing the spread of animal disease, as well as promoting animal health in Tennessee.

The Food and Nutritional Services (FNS) Department at NHC Smithville was recently recognized with three awards by the NHC Central Region: the Outstanding Financial Management Award for financial excellence, the Dining Quality Award for achieving high results in dining and food quality, and the Highest Honor-Food and Nutritional Services Department of the Year for having the best overall quality, service, and satisfaction of any department in the NHC Central Region. They competed against 16 other NHC healthcare centers and assisted living facilities in Middle and East Tennessee.

“Our team was very honored to receive these awards, especially the FNS Department of the Year! We take great pride in the service and quality of our dining experience. To be recognized as one of the best in our region is a tremendous honor.” Barbara Meadows, Dietary Manager said. “Our cooks, dietary aides, and all partners who assist in meal service deserve the credit for this recognition.”

The NHC Smithville Dietary Department serves over 2,450 meals per week to patients, families, partners, and customers. They take great pride in preparing balanced, healthy, and great tasting meals. The dietary partners are committed to patient centered care and go above and beyond to accommodate meal preferences.

NHC Smithville offers inpatient and outpatient rehabilitative care to adults of all ages on a short-term and continuing care basis. For more information about NHC Smithville, visit www.nhcsmithville.com or call (615) 597-4284.