This year marks the 150th anniversary of the USDA and the 40th of APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service). A successor of the Bureau of Plant Industry in 1972, APHIS plays a key role in the surveillance and eradication of animal and plant diseases, with numerous victories against Brucellosis, tuberculosis, screwworms, and fruit fly outbreaks. APHIS carried out “4,100 inspections of zoos and other exhibitors, commercial transporters, dealers, researchers, and wholesale breeders to make sure that they are properly caring for their animals as required by the Animal Welfare Act” last year. See their press release.
