By Maggie Edwards

Alabama poultry producers impacted by Highly Pathogenetic Avian Influenza (HPAI) are now required to undergo a biosecurity audit before seeking eligibility for indemnity and restocking their flock. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) ruling went into effect today and comes after a tough season for U.S. poultry.

While only two flocks in Alabama have been affected this year, 16 million birds were depopulated nationally this month. Alabama’s cases were found in Cullman and Pickens counties. 

Strict biosecurity protocols continue to be a priority, said the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Colton Christjohn.

“Our farmers work hard to provide a safe environment for their birds,” said Christjohn, the Federation Poultry Division director. “Biosecurity helps protect the animals’ health, secures our farmers’ livelihood and, most importantly, ensures a quality food supply for Americans. Despite the current outbreak, it’s important our citizens know that chicken and eggs are safe for consumption.”

The rule was published in the Federal Register today. USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) will accept comments on the regulation through March 5.

Additionally, APHIS now requires a biosecurity audit for commercial poultry premises located within buffer zones before movement of poultry to the location. APHIS will not pay indemnity for flocks moved onto premises in active infected zones if the flocks become infected with HPAI within 14 days following dissolution of the control area around an active infected site.

Learn more.