A massive outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has cost the US poultry industry tens of millions of birds this year. While the spread of the disease has slowed considerably during the hot summer months, there is real concern that the disease will flare and begin spreading this fall, as temperatures begin to subside.
The outbreaks earlier this year were mostly confined to the Midwest. The concern now is that HPAI will spread south this fall. Though they rarely show clinical symptoms, wild water fowl can be carriers of Avian Influenza. As water fowl migrate south for the winter they will likely be bringing Avian Influenza with them, spreading it to domestic poultry in the South. Avian Influenza, including HPAI, spreads from bird to bird trough contact with fecal material and other secretions.
Commercial poultry producers are well aware of this threat and are actively taking steps to protect their flocks. However, homeowners with small flocks might not be as well prepared. It is important that all poultry producers be familiar with avian influenza, are able to recognize the symptoms, and know the precautions to take to protect their flocks.
There will be a workshop on Tuesday, September 15 at the Washington County Agricultural Center in Chipley to help inform poultry owners about avian influenza, and ways they can protect their flocks. The program will begin at 6:00 PM and should conclude by 8:00 PM. The featured presentation, focusing on avian influenza and flock biosecurity, will be delivered by Jennifer Jennings-Glover, Poultry Program Manager, Division of Animal Industry, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. There will also be brief presentations on marketing poultry products directly off the farm, and general care and nutrition for the backyard flock.
For questions or to register for the program call the UF/IFAS Extension Washington County office at (850) 638-6180. Advanced registration is greatly appreciated. For more information about avian influenza and what you can do to protect your flock, follow the links below.