How did the NAIS evolve?
This ambitious project was spawned by the NIAA (National Institute for Animal Agriculture), a self-appointed group made up of many organizations involved in animal agriculture, including some of the largest corporations (such as Monsanto, Cargill Meat, National Pork Producers) and many manufacturers of high-tech animal equipment (Allflex, Digital Angel, Global Vet Link, Micro Beef Technologies, etc.). Some of them have a vested interest in a national animal ID program because it will ensure more markets and higher prices for their meat or for ID equipment. The NIAA brings together interested parties from government and industry to discuss issues in animal agriculture and to create action plans. Neil Hammerschmidt, Coordinator for the NAIS at USDA (APHIS), helped develop an international program before he took charge of the U.S. ID program. During 1998-2003 (just prior to his present position) he chaired the ID and Information committee of the NIAA and was involved in the International
