COLUMBUS, Ohio — In response to the impact of the Avian Flu outbreak on Ohio’s poultry industry, Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jim Tressel have formally requested the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide enhanced support to the state’s poultry producers.
Since December 2024, Ohio has seen Avian Flu detections in 74 premises, according to state officials. This has significantly affected the state’s production of eggs and poultry products. In Ohio, more than 15 million commercial and backyard poultry across the state have been culled, striking a hard blow to an industry that produces over 11 billion eggs annually.
The indemnification program, which currently compensates producers from January 1, 2025, is seen as vital for compensating losses and ensuring the continuity of operations for those impacted. By pushing the effective date earlier, Ohio leaders aim to restore full operational capabilities to the poultry producers hit by the outbreak, enhancing food security and stabilizing prices for consumers.
The USDA has yet to respond to Ohio’s request, but state leaders remain hopeful for positive action that will help mitigate the economic strain on Ohio’s leading agricultural sector.
