Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller Statement Reopening Cattle Spray Boxes (8/9/2018)

“After working with representatives from the Texas cattle industry and our state and federal partners at Texas Animal Health Commission, USDA and EPA, we have agreed to a short term compromise that will ensure ranchers have the option of exempting some cattle from the spray boxes and move us toward a more permanent solution for providing ventilation in the boxes as required by the federally-approved Co-Ral label. “

“Consequently, I am allowing the Cattle Fever Tick spray boxes to reopen as of today for a period of 45 days while I continue discussions with TAHC, USDA and EPA on a long term solution. I am hopeful that these agencies will have that solution in place before the September 24th deadline.

“I appreciate the quick and professional response from USDA Under Secretary Ibach and I look forward to working with him to find a more permanent solution to this issue. I also appreciate the patience and input of our friends in the Texas cattle industry. I sincerely hope that together we can find that solution that will protect Texas cattle, serve the public interest and strengthen the position of the Texas beef industry as a world leader.“