Mike Strigel Assistant Deputy Secretary | Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
Mike Strigel Assistant Deputy Secretary | Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
Wisconsin has reopened orders for free 840 radio frequency identification (RFID) official identification tags provided by the USDA. These tags are available for markets, dealers, producers, and veterinarians in Wisconsin to use with cattle and bison. The supply is limited and expected to last until September 30, 2025, or while supplies remain.
Tags can be ordered in batches of 1,000, with a maximum limit of 5,000 per order due to the limited availability. Orders can be placed through specific online platforms: markets, dealers, or producers can use https://wi.accessgov.com/datcp/Forms/Page/dah/tagorders/, while veterinarians should refer to DATCP's veterinary supply catalog at https://datcpservices.wisconsin.gov/vetcatalog/index.jsp.
A premises identification number (PIN) is required for ordering tags. Those without a PIN or unsure about their status should contact the Wisconsin Livestock Identification Consortium at 888-808-1910 or visit www.wiid.org for registration information.
Shipping times for these tags may vary from several weeks to months. For faster access, purchased tags might be an option through approved manufacturers listed on DATCP Home Official ID & Traceability.
Producers must use the tags exclusively on their own animals and not share them with other farms. Markets, dealers, and veterinarians can apply RFID tags to customers' and clients' animals but must maintain records. White button tags are available across all groups; however, veterinarians also have access to orange button tags specifically for brucellosis vaccination purposes.
Taggers are not included with the tag orders and need to be procured separately from manufacturers or distributors. It is advised that taggers match the brand of the ordered tags.
For further details regarding these RFID official identification tags and related procedures, additional information is accessible online.