Livestock

Cattle production has traditionally ranked second only to wheat farming as the most important sector in North Dakota's economy. Swine and sheep production are also important, and the raising of buffalo and other "exotic" animals is becoming increasingly significant. The Livestock Division helps protect our livestock producers through the licensing of livestock dealers and livestock auction markets.

After posting adequate bond, filing a current financial statement and passing basic tests of financial responsibility, dealers and auction markets are granted a license. Field audits are conducted on a random basis to determine if licensed dealers have maintained financial integrity, and investigations are carried out to discover unlicensed dealers.

Livestock dealer licenses cost $50 annually and are valid from July 1 to June 30; livestock auction market licenses cost $200 annually, and are valid from April 1 to March 31. Current lists of livestock dealers, livestock agents and auction markets are available on request from the division.

Wool dealer licenses are $10 annually and are valid from July 1 to June 30.

Brand recording functions were transferred to the North Dakota Stockmen's Association, as of August 1, 1993.