With the USDA preparing for the mandatory COOL (Country of Origin Labeling) that went into affect September 30, 2008 here is some information that 4-H members should be aware of. It may seem confusing at first but the process is relatively simple. The Iowa COOL Coalition has come up with a simple affidavit that can work for all species of livestock (beef, sheep, swine, poultry, and goat). The affidavit will be a link lower on this page.
· 4-Her's who raise their own livestock for their projects need to fill this affidavit out and keep it on file for a minimum of two years. In case of an audit, 4-Her's can provide his affidavit along with other vaild documents such as birth records, calving report, or purchase/sales receipts.
· 4-Her's who purchase thier livestock from others MUST have the producer fill out the affidavit, give it to the 4-H member and the 4-Her needs to keep the affidavit on file for a minimum of two years. For example, a 4-Her goes to buy their steer from a prodcuer. The 4-Her need the producer (seller) to fill out and sign the affidavit.
COOL Affidavit (to be fill out by 4-H member or Producer (seller)
If you would like more information at COOL please visit the Iowa Beef Center's webpage at www.iowabeefcenter.org/content/COOL.htm
AMG
11/5/2008