What is the nature and purpose of the Scrapie Flock Certification Program?

• A. The program is mandatory and grades flock size.
• B. The program vaccinates flocks against scrapie.
• C. The program provides financial subsidies to eligible flocks.
• D. The program is voluntary and identifies flocks free of scrapie for a defined period.

Answer: (D)

The main idea is that the Scrapie Flock Certification Program is a voluntary system that certifies flocks as free of scrapie for a defined period. Producers opt in to show that their flock meets the criteria for absence of the disease, and that status is valid for a set time, after which ongoing compliance is checked to renew the certification. The program is not mandatory, it does not involve vaccination, and it is not a subsidies program. Instead, it relies on proper flock identification, surveillance, recordkeeping, and controlled movement to maintain the scrapie-free status, which helps with safe trade and marketing of breeding stock.