By Mike Louisell
More than 6,000
brand holders will receive notices starting this week reminding livestock
owners it’s time to renew their brands. Current livestock brands expire on Dec.
31.
Every four
years WSDA renews brands and updates its popular brand book, a large volume showing
brands that often have been in families for decades. The brands, featuring
quarter circles, anchors, channel irons and a host of other symbols, show
ownership of the animal and deter theft.
It’s been said
that a brand is your livestock’s best return address, comparable to the title you
carry in your vehicle to prove ownership. That is because brands are unique to
specific ranches and other properties and the families that own them.
Brands not
renewed can be re-recorded after a one-year holding period. WSDA typically
advertises available brand designs in the “Ketch Pen,” published by the
Washington Cattlemen’s and Cattlewomen’s Association.
The cost to
renew your brand is $120, good for four years. Payment can be made with check,
money order or credit card. Go to www.agr.wa.gov/FoodAnimal/Livestock
or call (360) 902-1855 for more information on livestock brands.
Pre-order your 2016 Brand Book now
Take advantage
and pre-order a copy of the 2016 Brand Book when you renew your brand. The book
will be available next summer, but supplies will be limited for those who do
not pre-order. Costs are $25 for a printed copy or $10 for the e-book on
CD-ROM.