Date
Regulatory Analysis and Development,
PPD, APHIS, Station 3C71,
4700 River Road Unit 118,
Riverdale, MD 20737-1238

Re: Docket No. 98-106-4

Dear Honorable Secretary of Agriculture,

I am a breeder of birds for the pet trade. I would like to express the 
likelihood that AWA licensing would drive many bird breeders out of the 
activity. The demand for pet birds in the United States is sufficiently 
strong that if breeders are reduced in number, it will increase the 
incentive to smuggle birds into the country from abroad. Such an increase 
in smuggling will have a direct relationship with an increased risk of 
exposure to foreign diseases such as Exotic Newcastle Disease.

I would also like to express my support for the National Avian Welfare 
Alliance (NAWA) proposal.

Sincerely,

Sign
City, State

< back >