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Michigan bans poultry exhibits

Ohio State Fair_072811 023_poultry_web

Michigan is among a growing number of states to ban poultry exhibitions this show season.  In an effort to reduce the spread of Avian Influenza Ohio, Indiana, Minnesota, Iowa, Pennsylvania and Illinois also have set restrictions on poultry and waterfowl exhibitions.

Jennifer Holton with Michigan’s Department of Agriculture says all events in Michigan have been canceled to prevent the comingling of birds for 2015.

“This includes but is not limited to shows, exhibitions, swap meets, petting zoos at the fair, gamebird and wild fowl fair displays and Miracle of Life exhibits.”  Holton says Miracle of Life exhibits will still take place without the poultry component.

She tells Brownfield the ban is a preventative measure for the poultry industry, but she says they are helping kids have an alternative experience.

“We’ve worked with MSU Extension and Michigan 4-H to get a list of options for poultry exhibitors, so those options include suggestions for showmanship, breed classes, market classes and auctions.”

Holton says more information is available on the department’s website, www.michigan.gov/aviandiseases.

AUDIO: Interview with Jennifer Holton (2:44 mp3):

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