The American Agricultural Economics Association (AAEA) presented its prestigious "Distinguished Extension/Outreach Program Group Award" for the curriculum on U.S. Livestock Identification Systems: Risk Management and Market Opportunities. The award was presented at the AAEA annual meeting in Portland, Oregon, on July 31.

This educational program addresses producer product liability, market access risks and potential market opportunities associated with animal identification (ID) systems. The curriculum consists of a fact sheet series and supporting PowerPoint presentations explaining producer risks associated with animal ID systems. It also addresses how animal ID can add value to beef and dairy cattle through certification and branding programs.

The award-winning team delivered educational materials on animal ID systems via workshops and Web-based curriculum to cattle producers in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Wyoming, and Utah. Each of the Cooperative Extension specialists and collaborators developed and delivered materials in their respective states. These materials have also been used across the United States and in Australia.

A grant of $40,000 was applied for on behalf of the Western Extension Marketing Committee by project leader Wendy Umberger at Colorado State University. The grant was awarded by the Western Center for Risk Management Education housed at Washington State University.