State launches cattle improvement initiative

The Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) today announced an initiative aimed at increasing farm income in Tennessee by providing cost-share funds to farmers for the improvement of beef and dairy cattle genetics and livestock handling facilities. Cattle production is the single largest generator of farm income in this state. It’s what we do best, and it represents an area where we can have the greatest impact on the bottom line for Tennessee farmers,” said state Agriculture Commissioner Ken Givens. “We’re offering a series of cost-share options that are designed to help farmers develop and maintain a competitive advantage in today’s livestock industry.” The initiative is funded through a $5 million appropriation for farm programs in this year’s state budget as proposed by Governor Phil Bredesen and approved by the Tennessee General Assembly. The cattle improvement initiative is part of department plans to also use the funding to help implement the National Animal Identification System in Tennessee and to encourage farm diversification. Tennessee beef and dairy farmers can apply now for reimbursement of 35 percent, or up to $700, for the cost of a bull purchase or lease, or for artificial insemination to improve cattle genetics. The department will also reimburse producers up to an additional $175 for the cost of a herd evaluation by an approved evaluator. Applications must be approved before qualifying purchases and lease agreements will be accepted. Applications are due by September 30. Cattle farmers can also apply for reimbursement of 35 percent, or up to $850, of the costs of cattle handling facilities such as headgates, holding chutes and other approved equipment used for managing cattle. “Helping farmers invest in handling equipment is an important part of improving Tennessee cattle,” said Givens. “It may be a simple concept, but it’s common sense that if you can’t catch your cattle you can’t properly manage them. We want to encourage not just better genetics but better management for safeguarding animal health.” In order to be eligible for cost-share funds under both the Cattle Genetic Improvement Program and the Cattle Handling Facilities Program, producers must register their livestock farm, or premises, for the National Animal Identification System. Farmers can register their livestock premises at Farm Service Agency, UT Extension, Farm Bureau or Tennessee Farmers Co-op locations. Premises registration forms and instructions are also available from TDA online at www.tennessee.gov/agriculture/tpis or by calling (615) 837-5120.