Kansas Brands
Brands Program
The brand program maintains a 17,500 +/- brand registry and assists with the market brand inspection program performed by contract. Two special investigators assist local law enforcement with lost, stray and stolen livestock. They coordinate investigations between agencies and victims.
General Information
Animal brands have been a visual means of identification throughout history. Starting from the time of the open range to the present, it has assisted in showing ownership of livestock throughout Kansas.
The original open fire method was practical in the beginning, followed by the electric iron and then advancing to the freeze-branding method. In Kansas, both the hot and freeze brand methods are recognized. Through registration of a livestock brand in the brands program, this means of identity continues to play a special part in the livestock industry and history.
Brand inspection is not mandatory in the State of Kansas. Brand inspection shall be performed in areas designated as brand inspection areas, provided funds for inspection are available. Brand inspection may also be performed upon request. Currently, three counties participate in the county option brand inspection program and seven livestock markets are contracting with the department for inspection services.
Brand Application
Application for Livestock Brand Record. Each brand is registered for a five-year period (original registrations are for four full years after the following April 1) with brands expiring on April 1. Each calendar year ending in the number "9" or "4" has a larger number of brands for renewal than for other years. The brand registration fee and the renewal fee are each $45.00, the fee for transfer of ownership is $15.00. It is unlawful for any person to use a brand unless the brand is legally recorded in his or her name.
Helpful Information about Brands and Branding
Brand Books
The brand program maintains the state brand registry, which consists of approximately 17,500 +/- brands. The new 2008 Kansas Brand Book is available with four supplements for $70.00. The Brand Book can be ordered without suppliments for $35.00. And it is now also available on CD with four suppliments for $15.00. The 2003 Brand Book , with supplements, is still available at a reduced cost of $20.00 (reduced from $50.00). Copies of the 1998 Brand Book are now available for purchase for $15.00.
