Poultry Show FAQs
1. Are there cases of avian influenza in Michigan?
As of June 1, 2015, there have been no cases of avian influenza reported in Michigan. These are proactive measures.
2. Why did Michigan Department of Agricultural and
Rural Development (MDARD) decide to cancel all poultry shows in 2015
when we don’t have any cases of avian flu?
MDARD’s decision is a precautionary measure made in the
interest of animal and public health, as well as to protect Michigan’s
poultry population. The USDA keeps track of outbreaks throughout the United States. Regular updates are posted on the avian influenza reporting section of their website.
3. What is MDARD’s role?
MDARD’s role is to protect animal health and promote animal
industry. This is why the difficult decision was made to cancel all
poultry exhibitions.
4. Will MDARD be reconsidering or offering an opportunity for public comment?
No. The decision was made by state veterinarians after much deliberation and consideration.
5. What does this cancellation cover?
All 2015 poultry and waterfowl exhibitions in Michigan,
which prevents the comingling of birds from different locations. This
includes, but is not limited to, shows, exhibitions, swap meets, petting
zoos at fairs, wild bird and waterfowl fair displays and Miracle of
Life exhibits. This does not include permanent poultry exhibits at zoos.
As an extra precautionary measure, MSU
Extension will also not allow the display of any live birds that are
part of the 4-H small animals program known as ‘pocket pets,’ including
canaries, parrots, parakeets and macaws.
6. Is there an exception for market birds?
No. An alternative option will be outlined for market
projects that will members’ product to be sold at fairs, however the
live animals will not be allowed at the fair.
7. What is Michigan State University Extension’s role?
Michigan State University (MSU) and MSU Extension (including Michigan 4-H) are educational institutions. They are available to provide information and resources
to help producers, 4-H families, fair boards and other individuals and
organizations understand and implement the statement issued by MDARD.
8. Who can I talk to about my 4-H project?
Contact your local MSU Extension 4-H program coordinator for details on your county project.
9. Where can I find alternative ideas for incorporating my poultry project knowledge into fair?
Alternative methods have been determined by MSU Extension and approved the MDARD state veterinarian.
10. What are fairs doing?
Each county fair will institute their own alternatives,
please contact your local county fair office for next steps and
policies.
11. What can I do with birds that were only intended to be fair projects?
An alternative option for market bird projects, such as
broiler chickens and turkeys, has been created for county 4-H programs
that choose to use it.
12. Can market birds be sold through fair auctions?
Yes. The alternative option outlined for market projects
will allow for birds to be sold at fairs, however the live animals will
not be allowed at the auctions.
13. What do we do with empty poultry barns at fair?
MSU
Extension encourages fairs to continue to utilize fair poultry barns as a
place to educate the public about poultry projects. In lieu of live
birds, this can be done in a number of alternative ways, including
poster contests and educational displays.
14. What do we tell the public at fair?
To ensure a consistent message is shared with the public, MSU
Extension will provide a PDF version of a poster that explains the
absence of poultry at the fair. Please print and display this poster in
your poultry barns. We ask that only this approved public poster be
utilized at the fair.
15. Does this cancellation include birds intended for market?
Yes. An alternative option for 4-H market bird projects,
such as broiler chickens and turkeys, has been created for county 4-H
programs that choose to use it.
16. Will processors take birds?
Yes. This cancellation does not affect markets or processors.
17. How can we protect our home flocks from the spread of avian influenza?
If you have backyard/hobby/show flocks, you should increase your biosecurity practices, including limiting the exposure to wild birds and restricting outdoor access to your flock.
18. What is avian influenza, how is it spread and where can I find more information?
Avian influenza, sometimes referred to as “bird flu,” is a
virus infecting domestic poultry, such as chickens, turkeys, quail, and
geese and may be carried by migrating waterfowl. This particular
outbreak is a “high pathogenicity” type of avian influenza that is more
deadly to poultry.
This avian influenza is spread through droppings or nasal
discharge of an infected bird, which contaminates dust and soil. In
addition people can carry the virus on their shoes, clothes, equipment
and vehicles. This virus has also been spread by migrating birds.
19. Can people/kids get sick from avian influenza?
The current strain that has been found in many states is
not zoonotic, meaning people cannot get sick from avian influenza. Learn
more at http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/avian_influenza_are_humans_at_risk.
20. Is it safe to eat poultry and eggs?
Yes. Learn more here: http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/avian_influenza_poultry_eggs_safe_food
21. How many birds/farms have been affected by avian influenza in Michigan?
As of June 1, 2015, avian influenza has not been reported in Michigan. The USDA keeps track of outbreaks throughout the United States. Regular updates are posted on the avian influenza reporting section of their website.
