In Chilton County, a game breeder facility reported an alarming number of mortalities among its flock, exceeding 300,000 birds, including pheasants, quail, chukar, and ducks. Frazier
Alabama’s poultry industry is grappling with two recent outbreaks of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, prompting officials from the Alabama Department of Agriculture to consider seeking assistance from the National Guard. With more than 49 million reported cases of bird flu in the United States since 2022, the contagious virus poses a significant threat to the state’s second-largest agricultural industry.
During a meeting of the Alabama State Board of Agriculture and Industries, State Veterinarian Tony Frazier underscored the severity of the recent outbreaks of avian influenza. Frazier revealed that within the past month, two outbreaks occurred—one in Chilton County near Montgomery and another in Marshall County near Huntsville.
In Chilton County, a game breeder facility reported an alarming number of mortalities among its flock, exceeding 300,000 birds, including pheasants, quail, chukar, and ducks. Frazier described the devastating impact on the pheasants, stating, “Those pheasants were dying as we stood there watching them; hundreds of pheasants in several pens.”
The outbreak in Marshall County affected a pullet farm, with the owner reporting a similar increase in mortalities. Containment efforts for the affected birds involve specific methods, including the use of large quantities of wood shavings and water. Frazier highlighted the strain on resources, noting the use of 2,000 cubic feet of wood chips and 55,000 gallons of water for composting on the Marshall County farm alone.
Frazier warned of the potential for a disaster if another outbreak occurs, as it could further burden local breeders and farmers. Additionally, he expressed concerns about compromised exports to certain countries, emphasizing the urgency of efficient containment measures.
In a proactive approach, Frazier mentioned the possibility of seeking National Guard assistance, subject to approval from Governor Kay Ivey. While acknowledging that such a request has not been made, Frazier explained that if faced with another widespread event, activating the Emergency Management Agency and involving the National Guard might become necessary.
Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries, Rick Pate, expressed openness to the idea, stating, “You just follow the science wherever it takes you.” He emphasized the governor’s potential role in authorizing National Guard assistance, highlighting Governor Ivey’s rural background and willingness to address urgent needs in the agricultural sector.
As Alabama remains on alert, the state’s poultry industry faces a critical juncture, with the National Guard standing by in case further assistance is required to mitigate the impact of the bird flu outbreaks.