Second Lamb Purchase Invite Announced

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on Thursday released the second invitation of 2009 to American lamb companies to sell lamb products for use in federal food and nutrition programs. The offer applies to lamb leg roasts.

The American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) encouraged an announcement of the authorization to spend a minimum of an additional $2 million in section 32 funds through calendar year 2009 to provide the industry with more confidence, something that is needed for a good market.

"The funds are available to commit by the end of September with shipments in the next fiscal year so we are pleased USDA is moving forward with bids so the industry can supply as much of the total purchases as possible," commented Glen Fisher (Texas), ASI president. "USDA secured 180,000 pounds of boneless lamb the end of July with the first."

Offers must be received by the USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service before 1:30 p.m., CDT, Friday, Aug. 14. Acceptances will be announced by midnight, Friday, Aug. 21. Shipments will be made between Oct. 1 and Oct. 15.

Additional program information can be accessed at www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/ams.fetchTemplateData.do?template=TemplateR&page=ORMAnnouncementPage2.

Staff Contact: Peter Orwick, Ext. 33