I basically live in TN. Physically 2.3 miles south of Chattanooga, just over the GA line. I extract and sell venom. Couple things, all venomous snakes are completely outlawed in TN. There is a Class 1 permit on the books, but the chief enforcement officer is a guy named Walter Cook and he is not going to issue that permit to anyone other then a zoo and if he could get his way, I think he would retract theirs. Second thing, there is no market for snake venom. If its going to be used for human testing or in the production of a medicine, it falls under the authority of the FDA and he would have to have an FDA inspected and approved lab. He would be looking at a six figure investment. Jim Harrison, Bill Haast, and George VanHorn, more then meet the entire world's demand for venom. There is no room for a start up in the market. I moved my self and my operation to another state to circumvent the laws. you son will have to do that as well if he wants to keep venomous snakes. i can supply venom for research or animal testing without FDA involvement, but the market is VERY limited. I keep the snakes for my enjoyment, breeding, and educational displays. Since i already have them, selling the venom is a side note....but there is just no way he will come out if he is attempting to build a collection and operation based only on the venom sells. if your soon is near east TN, have him look me up. i will be happy to get him stated...will even teach him how to do the venom extractions, but he just needs to know up front....there isn't money in it.
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