Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller Statement Reopening Cattle Spray Boxes

“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.“