Permit Guidance

During an outbreak, movement permits will be issued by Regulatory Officials based on the risk posed by that item. Moving animals from premises in a Control Area is not without risk of disease spread to livestock via the truck, driver, and animals. Planning for times of no animal movement at the beginning of an outbreak is important for business continuity. Read the Contingency Planning for Producers Prior to an FMD Outbreak to learn more.

Regulatory Officials will determine and communicate the exact permit requirements for sheep, semen, and embryos. Producers should be prepared to meet the requirements prior to requesting a permit.

General permit guidance is included below and in the SSWS Plan.

Movement permit guidance for sheep grazing federal public lands within an FMD control area is described in the Movement Decision Criteria for Industry and Regulatory Officials Managing Cattle and Sheep Grazing Federal Public Lands during an FMD Outbreak.

1. Traceability information is available (PIN, GPS Coordinates, and information on type and number of animals/quantity of semen to be moved).
2. Biosecurity measures listed in the Biosecurity Checklist for Sheep Feedlots or Sheep on Pasture/Rangeland are in place and acceptable to Responsible Regulatory Officials.
3. Trace back/forward information* is acceptable (premises is not Infected, Suspect, or Contact).
4. Destination premises and State are willing to accept the animals, semen, or embryos.
5. No evidence of infection based on disease monitoring (surveillance).

*Producers can provide trace back and trace forward information by maintaining accurate records of movement of animals, feed, supplies, equipment, personnel, and visitors. Producers can use the SSWS Practice Questionnaire for FMD Exposure to get a feel for the information they may need to provide in an outbreak.