Colorado Department of Agriculture
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

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Why is CLSS needed?
Colorado's livestock industry contributes successfully to global commerce and with that comes a greater need to trace livestock emergencies quickly and efficiently.  Whether it's a state or international issue, CDA is committed to protecting this valuable industry, and CLSS is a key tool in that success. 

 

How is information within CLSS protected?
Personal information and other specific details of livestock operations gathered for the CLSS are protected under Colorado law (35.57.9 C.R.S.) the Livestock Information Security Act.  The collected data is part of the CDA all-hazards security system.

 

Who has access to my information?
Your data that is housed at CDA will be viewed by approved CDA employees at times of data entry or an animal health event.  In some instances, a limited amount of data may need to be shared with the United States Department of Agriculture's Veterinary Services during an animal health emergency.  Before releasing any CLSS data, requests will be reviewed by a governance team and approved by the Commissioner of Agriculture. 

 

Why do I need CLSS if I already have a brand for my livestock?

  • Colorado's brand inspection program protects livestock owners from loss of animals due to theft, straying, or misappropriation.
  • CLSS will protect Colorado's livestock in the event of an all-hazards emergency.
  • Only 17 states have brand inspection laws.
  • CLSS can help during a national emergency, can garner state and federal assistance, and can gather information from a variety of sources. 

How do I participate?
Protecting your livestock and investments is easy.  If you own livestock in Colorado and own a brand, export or import cattle, participate in NAIS, or test your animals for disease, you are participating in this system.  CLSS coordinates all of that information for use in an emergency response effort.