Each State must have one person to act as its DJC. This person should be selected jointly by the State animal health official and the AVIC, and be approved by the VS regional Johne’s disease epidemiologist/regional director and the Johne’s disease staff of APHIS/VS/National Animal Health Programs. States have a 1-year grace period to allow the chosen DJC candidate to meet the education and training requirements. During this time period, the candidate is considered to be the acting DJC.

Each DJC candidate must:

1. Be a State, Federal, or university veterinarian.

2. Successfully complete a Johne’s disease (JD) epidemiology course that includes on-farm risk assessments and herd management plan development.

3. Have at least 80 hours of experience in assessing risk, developing herd plans, and classifying JD test-positive animals and herds.

The DJC has the responsibility to:

1. Interpret laboratory test results and classify animals and herds based on the use of official and screening tests.

2. Provide training for State personnel performing Program work.

3. Provide training for certified veterinarians and develop a mechanism within the State to evaluate/monitor the involvement of the certified veterinarians.

4. Review the risk assessments and herd management plans submitted by herd owners and certified veterinarians.

5. Periodically audit the Program to determine if it is adequately controlling JD in the State.

6. Assist animal health officials, herd owners, and the herd owner’s veterinarian with developing herd management plans as requested/needed.

7. Participate in the Program activities as a member of the State Johne’s Disease Group.