Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What tags does the MCA-SAV Program
utilize?
A. The MCA-SAV program uses a matched pair
of tags consisting of an EID (Electronic Identification Device) button
tag and a unique number visual tag.
Q. How much does is cost to participate?
A. Tag sets ordered directly from MCA cost
$3.75 plus shipping and handling. The cost at MCA-Approved dealers may
vary. There is no participation fee.
Q. What ear do I place the tags in?
A. The EID button tag goes in the calf's
left ear, the visual tag may go in either ear.
Q. Can I have my veterinarian or auction
market put the tags in at their location?
A. Cattle may be tagged at your
veterinarian's clinic, however all other cattle must be tagged on your
farm or ranch.
Q. Must calves be born in Missouri to be
eligible?
A. No. However, a valid Premise ID number
and all other required records must be provided.
Q. Are calves from cow/calf pairs I have
purchased eligible?
A. No. Only the original owner of the
calves may enroll them in the MCA-SAV program. Calves must be born on
your premise in order to be eligible.
Q. Are embryo transfer calves and calves
born to bred heifers or cows eligible for participation?
A. Yes. They are eligible as long as the
calves are born in your possession and all requirements are met.
Q. Will I be audited?
A. Possibly. At least 10% of the MCA-SAV
producers will be audited each year. Audits may be conducted by an MCA
representative, a representative of the Missouri Department of
Agriculture or the United States Department of Agriculture. To
participate in the MCA-SAV program you must agree to allow on-site
audits.
Q. What do I do if a calf loses a tag, or
both tags?
A. If a calf loses one tag, contact MCA
for a replacement. If a calf loses both tags, but is still on the
original farm it can be re-enrolled. If the calf is no longer on the
original farm it is no longer QSA eligible.
Q. I lost a couple calves before tagging
them, what do I do with the extra tags?
A. You must destroy all unused tags and
report the tag numbers to MCA. You cannot hold tags for another group of
calves. It is very important you order the exact number of tags you
need. MCA cannot offer refunds for any unused tags.
Q. How will buyers receive information on
my calves?
A. Buyers will contact MCA via phone or
e-mail for instructions. Buyers can receive birth date information and a
customer number for each animal they purchase.
If you have anymore questions concerning
the MCA-SAV Program,
please contact the office at (573)
499-9162.