Alberta’s poultry industry is facing a severe outbreak of avian flu this season, with many producers struggling to contain the spread. Scott Olson, a turkey farmer from the Wetaskiwin area, has experienced the devastating impact of the disease for the third time. After losing his 10,000-bird flock earlier in 2022 due to the wild geese migration, he is now going through his third outbreak and cull.
To combat the disease, Olson is diligently disinfecting his barns and preparing to restart his operation with new hatchlings after Christmas. The avian flu has significantly affected commercial poultry farms in Alberta, with 11 farms placed under quarantine by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency as of November 30. This marks a stark increase compared to previous years, with only six outbreaks in 2024 and a total of 2.5 million bird deaths in Alberta since 2022.
Jeff Notenbomer, a chicken breeder near Lethbridge, emphasized the importance of biosecurity measures to prevent further outbreaks. The proximity of poultry facilities to waterways where migratory birds gather has been identified as a key factor in the spread of the virus. Despite efforts to contain the disease, the number of outbreaks in Alberta has risen this fall, posing a significant challenge for farmers.
The financial toll of the avian flu outbreak is considerable for individual producers, with disruptions in production leading to lost profits and added expenses. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s culling measures aim to eradicate the disease at specific sites, turning affected areas into “primary containment zones.” While these efforts are crucial for disease control, they have sparked controversy in the farming community.
As farmers continue to navigate the challenges posed by avian flu, the industry remains vigilant in implementing strict biosecurity protocols to safeguard poultry populations. The ongoing battle against the disease underscores the resilience and determination of Alberta’s poultry producers in the face of adversity.