Plan ahead to keep moving in El Niño conditions

OSPRI is encouraging farmers in TB Movement Control Areas (MCAs) to review their livestock movement plans now, and arrange TB testing early, ahead of the forecast El Niño conditions that could increase stock movements this summer.

Increased livestock movements can also lead to increased demand for pre-movement TB testing, particularly during summer when OSPRI’s TB technicians are already busy. 

"Deciding what you need to do, and requesting a TB test early, can help avoid delays and give you more options if conditions change,” says OSPRI’s chief operations officer Danny Templeman.

“We are concerned farmers, especially those in movement control areas, will get caught out when the weather conditions start to bite.

“We don’t want stock moved in a hurry, without TB testing and clearance – that’s risky for everyone.” 

In MCAs, cattle and deer over three months old require a clear TB test within 60 days before being moved off a property, whether they are being sold or moved for grazing.

Stock moving directly to slaughter do not require a pre-movement TB test.

To avoid delays, farmers should allow at least 14 days' notice when requesting a pre-movement TB test. Once animals have completed a clear test, they have 60 days in which they can be moved.

Farmers can find information about MCAs, pre-movement testing requirements and arrange a TB test at ospri.co.nz/el-nino or by contacting the OSPRI Support Centre on 0800 482 463.