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"The state's egg and poultry farmers want to thank Iowa Department of Agriculture Secretary Bill Northey, along with state and local elected leaders, for their continued advocacy for our industry. These are difficult times for our farms, and that support is critical as farmers work to prevent the spread of avian influenza (AI) in their flocks.
"While Iowa has been hard-hit by this devastating disease, we are grateful that AI has not yet affected every farm in the state. Poultry producers have redoubled their biosecurity measures on and around their farms to protect their flocks.
"We are asking all Iowans to do all they can to assist in this effort. We know one of the ways that this disease can be spread is by foot or vehicle traffic - movement which can carry the virus onto our farms and into our flocks. That is why poultry farmers are working closely with local law enforcement and county officials to limit movement on and around their farms.
"We very much need and appreciate the community's support in this effort - and respectfully ask those in communities located near egg and poultry farms to reduce or eliminate travel near those farms, whenever possible. Taking alternate routes that avoid the areas surrounding these farm locations can make a difference in keeping flocks protected from AI.
"Although we recognize it may be inconvenient, it is critical that we join together in doing all we can at this time to keep our birds safe, so that we can maintain production of safe, wholesome eggs and poultry. Our continued thoughts and prayers go out to our colleagues in Iowa and across the nation who have been directly impacted by AI. Thank you."
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