If a second herd is found to have the disease, which causes pregnant cattle to abort their calves, Montana could lose its coveted brucellosis-free certification from the federal government. That would force a prolonged and costly testing and vaccination program for the state's 2.5 million cattle, state officials and industry representatives said.

The source of the outbreak near the small community just north of the Wyoming border is under investigation by Montana and federal agriculture agents. State officials said that will include testing of other herds that might have come into contact with the diseased one to determine if the brucellosis already has spread.

Brucellosis was thought to be eradicated from livestock in Montana in 1985. But the disease persisted in elk and bison herds in and around Yellowstone National Park, and recent outbreaks in two neighboring states, Idaho and Wyoming, were linked to elk.

"We are concerned about our brucellosis-free status," Gov. Brian Schweitzer said. "Federal and state agencies are investigating the test results now, and we will continue to work toward solutions to keep Montana's brucellosis-free status."

Source: Casper Star-Tribune



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