SEPTEMBER 5, 2025 | VOLUME 30 | ISSUE 16
Farm Bureau Press PREMISES IDS: WHAT TO KNOW As show season gets underway across Arkansas, many livestock owners, especially those new to 4-H, FFA or county fairs, find themselves navigating a maze of requirements and paperwork. One area that often causes confusion is the Premises Identification Number (PIN). Whether you’re tagging animals for the first time, preparing for interstate travel or simply trying to meet fair entry guidelines, understanding what a premises ID is and why it’s important can save you time and stress.
A PEEK INSIDE
County Fair Prep with County Women’s Leadership Committees, Page 2
The PIN system applies to a wide range of species, including cattle, swine, sheep, goats, poultry, equine and other livestock commonly raised in Arkansas. Whether you’re a commercial operator or a small-scale hobby farmer, a PIN can be a vital part of your animal health plan. The main function of a PIN is to support animal disease traceability. During outbreaks such as avian influenza, bovine tuberculosis or swine fever, animal health officials can quickly trace the movement of animals. This speeds up containment efforts, limits the spread of disease, and helps protect both public health and the agriculture economy. In addition to disease control, registered premises can also play a key role in emergency preparedness, such as during floods, tornadoes or other disasters. When animals must be evacuated or relocated, having your premises already in the system can speed up response efforts and direct assistance where it’s needed most. A PIN is also required to purchase official U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) 840 RFID ear tags. These tags are commonly needed for interstate livestock movement, youth livestock exhibitions (4-H, FFA, etc.), and compliance with federal animal ID and traceability rules.
Arkansas Farm Bureau at Work, Page 3
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A PUBLICATION OF THE ARKANSAS FARM BUREAU FEDERATION