The National Animal Identification System Principles
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1. Uniform – The NAIS must be based on national data 
   standards to ensure a uniform and compatible system.
2. Flexible – Allow producers to use NAIS in 
   coordination with production management systems, 
   marketing incentives, etc.
3. Inclusive – APHIS is developing the NAIS for various 
   species and must make the NAIS mandatory at a 
   specified date to drive investment and progress.
4. Cooperative – Achieve the 48-hour traceback goal 
   through state, federal, and industry partnerships.
5. Secured, reliable, and confidential information – 
   Health officials need immediate, reliable, and 
   uninterrupted access to essential information that 
   is protected from open disclosure.
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Source: USDA National Animal Identification System Draft 
Strategic Plan. The reference document is agency docket 
number 05-015-1 and the docket identification number 
is APHIS-2005-0044.