December 23, 2004

Subject: Designated Port Status for Memphis, TN and Louisville, KY

Background: By law, most wildlife imports and exports must enter or leave the United States through a designated port, where they are inspected and cleared by Service wildlife inspectors. The system of designated ports (which funnels wildlife shipments through a limited number of locations) and related declaration, inspection, and clearance requirements help the Service ensure that wildlife trade complies with U.S. laws and treaties that protect species worldwide.

Memphis , Tennessee and Louisville, Kentucky will officially become “designated ports” for wildlife trade on January 5, 2005. Service wildlife inspectors will process wildlife imports and exports at these locations, bringing the number of ports nationwide that handle all types of wildlife trade to 17. Both Memphis and Louisville are hubs for major international express mail companies that move huge volumes of cargo each year. Memphis International Airport ranks as the world’s largest processor of international airfreight, while the Louisville International Airport is the sixth largest handler of air cargo. Neither location, however, has previously been authorized to receive wildlife trade, which is regulated under Federal wildlife laws.

Action: On January 5, 2005, businesses or individuals may import or export wildlife or wildlife products through the port of Memphis or Louisville. Licensed importers and exporters will pay a $55 inspection fee and applicable overtime costs per shipment (declaration) as required for all designated ports. Importers and exporters who do not require a license will only pay applicable overtime costs. Importers and exporters of live or perishable shipments must provide notice of their shipments to the wildlife inspection office and receive confirmation at least 48 hours in advance to ensure inspection staff is available. Please contact the appropriate wildlife inspection office for further information on wildlife declaration, licensing, and clearance requirements.

Contact:
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Office of Law Enforcement
703-358-1949 703-358-2271 (fax)