Press Releases

Kimberley Smith (301)734-6464
Jerry Redding (202) 720-6959

USDA ADOPTS RULE ON IMPORT AND INTERSTATE MOVEMENT OF TORTOISES

WASHINGTON, July 16, 2001--The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced today that it is adopting as a final rule two modified interim rules concerning the importation and interstate movement of the leopard tortoise, African spurred tortoise, and Bell's hingeback tortoise.

The final rule amends the previous interim rules by allowing the interstate movement of these tortoises if an accredited veterinarian signs either a health certificate or a certificate of veterinary inspection stating that the tortoises have been examined by that veterinarian and found to be free of exotic ticks. The final rule also affirms USDA's prohibition on the importation of these types of land tortoises.

This action is necessary to enable the export, interstate commerce, health care, and adoption of these types of tortoises while providing protection against the spread of exotic ticks known to be vectors of heartwater disease. This action will also relieve an unnecessary burden on federal veterinarians.

We estimate that each health certificate or certificate of veterinary inspection will cost $25 to $50 for the first tortoise, plus $2 to $5 for each additional tortoise in the shipment. The goal of the certification is to prevent the spread of exotic ticks known to be vectors of heartwater disease. The health certificate or certificate of veterinary inspection will also help ensure the acceptability of these animals in international markets.

Heartwater disease is an acute, infectious disease of ruminants, such as cattle, sheep, goats, white-tailed deer, and antelope. This disease has a 60 percent or greater mortality rate in livestock and a 90 percent or greater mortality rate in white-tailed deer.

Notice of this action is scheduled to be published in the July 17 Federal Register and becomes effective upon publication. APHIS documents published in the Federal Register and related information, including the names of organizations and individuals who have commented on APHIS dockets, are available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ppd/rad/webrepor.html.

For more information, contact David Wilson, senior staff entomologist, emergency programs, veterinary services, APHIS, 4700 River Road, Unit 41, Riverdale, Md. 20737, (301) 734-8073.