BC assigns $ 2.5 million to reduce bird grie -prersion on Fraser Valley Poultry Farms

British Columbia Allocates $2.5 Million to Combat Bird Flu Outbreaks in Poultry Farms

British Columbia has announced a $2.5 million funding initiative to support approximately 75 poultry farms in the Fraser Valley in upgrading their barns to mitigate the risk of bird flu.

The Ministry of Agriculture revealed that the flu can infiltrate barns through various means such as airflow and water sources. Despite implementing heightened preventive measures, there have been about 200 outbreaks in the Fraser Valley and Lower Mainland since 2022.

Under the Novel Tools and Technologies program, egg and poultry producers will be able to enhance their barns with tools like air filters and ultraviolet light systems.

The ministry stated that the program will provide a minimum of $30,000 per farm for upcoming projects initiated after January 1, 2025.

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Most projects are expected to be completed by autumn, as this is when the disease poses the highest risk of spreading to poultry on farms or backyard flocks due to migration patterns.

Since 2022, approximately 9 million birds in BC have been euthanized. The ministry reported the most recent case of bird flu occurring in a commercial flock in January, towards the end of the autumn migration period.

Agriculture Minister Lana Popham acknowledged the resilience of farmers in combating bird flu since 2004.

“Despite the challenges and losses caused by the virus, farmers continue to diligently care for their birds each day, ensuring the stability of our food supply,” Popham stated. “This program aims to bolster their efforts by implementing additional defense mechanisms against the virus in their barns.”