IMPORT ALERT: Canadian Border Ports of International Falls and Baudette, MN

Bookmark and Share

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

 

Effective April 4, 2012, and until further notice, APHIS Veterinary Services (VS) will be providing import services at the ports of International Falls, MN, and Baudette, MN, on a limited, as-needed basis, subject to advance notification and availability of VS personnel.

Until recently, the port of entry at International Falls was staffed with a Veterinary Medical Officer who facilitated the processing of livestock across the borders. The term appointment has expired and, unfortunately, the volume of commodities moving through International Falls and Baudette at this time is insufficient to justify filling this vacancy. VS will continue to provide service at these ports, but only by appointment.

Importers should contact the VS Minnesota Area Office at (651) 290-3691 to discuss VS staff availability and confirm appointments for commodities arriving at International Falls or Baudette. Arrangements should be made at least 2 weeks (10 business days) in advance. Inquiries by telephone for VS import permits be made to the National Center for Import and Export at (301) 851-3300 (choose menu option 2). Email inquiries may be sent to: VS.Live.Animal.Import.Export@aphis.usda.gov at least 3 weeks (15 business days) in advance of planned imports.

Unless otherwise specified by the Minnesota Area Office, importers will be responsible for full payment of all estimated import-related services in advance of the shipment’s arrival. While we realize the current options are not ideal, importers may either use an alternative port of entry or request that an Agency veterinarian in the area travel to International Falls or Baudette to provide service and pay the associated costs.

Thank you.

***

Please share the following link with others who may be interested in these updates. Click here to subscribe to the VS Animal Health Stakeholder Registry. This link will also allow you to change or cancel your subscription.