The Department of Agriculture is beefing up a livestock management program to reduce car accidents and property damage related to cattle, among other things.
The agency said there is renewed focus on public awareness and management of Guam’s branding and estray livestock regulations, aimed at improving livestock management, reducing property damage, and ensuring public safety.
In 2024, Guam experienced a significant increase in cattle-related car accidents and property damage caused by stray or improperly managed livestock, Agriculture said.
These incidents underscored the urgent need for stricter compliance with livestock branding and confinement laws to protect both public safety and private property, the department added.
Responsible ownership
Under Guam’s branding law, 5 GCA Ch. 61 Article 4, all livestock owners are required to brand their animals within 90 days of birth or one month of acquisition.
Branding means any permanent tag, mark, sign or symbol placed upon or implanted in livestock for the purpose of identifying the owner.
Agriculture said this ensures livestock ownership is easily identifiable, preventing disputes and aiding in the recovery of lost or stolen animals.
Livestock brands must be registered with the Department of Agriculture, with a nominal fee of $10.
Owners are reminded that unregistered or unbranded livestock may result in penalties, including fines or imprisonment.
Estray livestock
Estray livestock, defined as domestic animals found at large or trespassing, pose risks to public safety and private property.
Owners are responsible for keeping animals confined using secure fencing or tethering.
Animals found grazing in public rights-of-way, parks, or other unauthorized areas may be seized and impounded by the Department of Agriculture’s Animal Control Officers.
Unclaimed animals may be sold at public auctions, with proceeds allocated to the general fund.
Livestock owners found in violation of branding or estray laws may face fines ranging from $10 to $500 or imprisonment of up to 90 days, depending on the severity and frequency of violations.
Source - https://www.guampdn.com
