Feds Close Cattle Gate at N.M. Port of Entry

From wisconsinrapidtribune - The livestock gate at one of the international ports of entry in southern New Mexico is closed now that the U.S. Department of Agriculture is restricting its veterinarians from crossing the U.S.-Mexico border.  The agency cites safety concerns, but New Mexico's two U.S. senators are urging the Obama administration to find a way for cattle to be moved through the Columbus port. Sens. Jeff Bingaman and Tom Udall sent letters to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on Wednesday. They say the decision to close the gate places a significant burden on ranchers. New Mexico ranchers buy cattle from Mexico to supplement their herds. Other animals are also transferred through the crossing. Before animals are allowed to come into New Mexico, they are inspected by a federal veterinarian to ensure they are disease-free.

Feds Close Cattle Gate at N.M. Port of Entry