– Jason Hartschuh, Dairy Management and Precision Livestock Field Specialist, Ohio State University Extension
Ohio cattlemen can request free, white 840 tags.
USDA is providing a limited number of official 840 RFID tags for each state to distribute to cattle producers and accredited veterinarians in the state. Low-frequency button tags are available in either white or orange. White tags are for any cattle while the orange tags are reserved for cattle that received calf hood vaccination for brucellosis. Only veterinarians can request the orange tags. If a calf already has an 840 RFID tag it cannot receive another 840 tag, these tags must stay in the animal’s ear for life and not be removed.
A Premises Identification Number (PIN) is required to order the free RFID tags. To obtain a PIN, scan the QR code found in the fact sheet linked here to access PIN registration on the ODA website, or call them at 614-728-6220.
Premises ID numbers are required when using 840 tags to assist in animal disease traceability. Once an 840 RFID tag is utilized producers can either use a public or private Animal disease tracking database to report their movement of animals. These systems are designed to integrate with USDA for disease tracking during an outbreak.
The benefits of RFID tags to producers really come through the private companies that offer digital management systems integrated with the RFID tag. Besides participating in the tags that USDA is offering producers would need to purchase an RFID reader. The lowest cost readers are about $450 and connect to various phone apps, most apps have a monthly or yearly subscription. The most basic system just displays the animal’s number so that you don’t have to attempt to read dirty ear tags. These apps can be a full record-keeping system allowing producers to track genetics, vaccinations, pasture moves, farm moves, treatments, and more. Some systems go even further allowing producers to track farm economics. These systems can improve farm efficiencies and profitability by assisting you with management tasks. When working cattle an RFID system can easily help you identify if any cattle are missing from the group.
If you wish to participate in receiving the free RFID tags, contact your local veterinarian, Tiffany at the Ohio Cattlemen’s Association office (614-873-6736), or the Ohio Department of Agriculture-Division of Animal Health at 614-728-6220. To find more details about receiving free RFID 840 tags in Ohio, see this fact sheet.