UPDATED CONTACT NUMBER
For immediate release: June 1,
2015
Media contact: Jennifer Holton, 517-284-5724 or holtonj@michigan.gov
Lansing – Today, after much deliberation and consideration
with the Michigan Association for Fairs and Exhibitions (MAFE), Michigan
4-H leadership and the Michigan Allied Poultry Industry, the Michigan
Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s State Veterinarian Dr.
James Averill made the difficult decision to cancel all 2015 poultry and
waterfowl exhibitions in Michigan to prevent the comingling of birds from
different locations. This includes, but is not limited to shows,
exhibitions, swap meets, petting zoos at fairs, game bird and waterfowl
fair displays, and Miracle of Life exhibits.
“We know the tremendous amount of time, money and passion the
kids and other exhibitors invest into their birds and the importance of
having livestock animals at these events to interact with the public,” said
Averill. “The rapid spread of these avian flu viruses is historic and has
impacted more than a dozen states across the U.S. While there are currently
no known cases of HPAI in Michigan, commitment to protecting the health of
all of the state’s poultry flocks - backyard and commercial farmers – led
us to making this difficult decision.”
MDARD has been working in conjunction with the Michigan Association
of Fairs and Exhibitions, Michigan State University Extension, 4-H
programs, and other partners to identify ways to engage Michigan’s youth
poultry exhibitors and allow them to still have the experience.
“The impact this disease has had on the poultry industry and
how quickly it is spreading is clear,” said Lisa Reiff, MAFE Executive
Director. “While it’s unfortunate that poultry exhibitions are canceled for
this year, it’s crucial youth still have an opportunity to participate in
fair activities. MAFE is working with MDARD, MSU and 4-H to identify
alternatives for poultry exhibitors and will use this opportunity to help
further educate the public about our state’s poultry industry.”
County fairs and local exhibitors are encouraged to go to the
MSU Extension website - msue.msu.edu/poultryshows - to get a list of
options for poultry exhibitors. Those options include suggestions for
showmanship, breed classes, market classes and auctions.
MDARD, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan
Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Departments of Agriculture
Veterinary Services and Wildlife Services, and MSU are working together to
conduct avian influenza surveillance and to monitor health of poultry,
livestock, wildlife and residents in Michigan.
- Michigan residents who notice the death loss of
three or more WILD birds should report it to DNR at
517-336-5030.
- If your backyard poultry flock has a high death
loss or consistent pattern of death loss in a short period of time,
report it to MDARD at 800-292-3939; (after hours emergencies)
517-373-0440.
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