In a major initiative to curb highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) and stabilize egg prices, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins has announced a $1 billion strategy aimed at protecting the nation’s poultry industry. This funding complements ongoing efforts to compensate farmers for depopulated flocks and includes targeted investments in biosecurity, financial relief, and vaccine research.
A Five-Pronged Approach to Avian Flu Mitigation
1. Strengthening Biosecurity Measures
USDA will dedicate $500 million to enhance biosecurity for poultry producers, focusing on mitigating the primary transmission source—wild birds. The strategy includes:
- Expanding the successful Wildlife Biosecurity Assessments program to egg-layer facilities.
- Implementing mandatory biosecurity audits for affected farms, with continued eligibility for financial indemnification tied to compliance.
- Deploying 20 trained epidemiologists to assess risks and advise producers on biosecurity enhancements.
- Covering up to 75% of costs for identified high-risk biosecurity improvements.
2. Financial Relief and Accelerated Repopulation
USDA will allocate $400 million to aid affected farmers and speed up the repopulation of flocks. Key measures include:
- Indemnification for depopulated flocks through the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).
- Streamlining approval processes for faster repopulation.
3. Reducing Regulatory Burdens
To promote innovation and stabilize consumer prices, USDA will:
- Work with the FDA to expand the commercial egg market.
- Reduce regulatory constraints on homegrown egg production.
- Address price disparities caused by state-level regulations, particularly in California, where eggs cost 60% more than in other regions.
4. Advancing Vaccine Research and Disease Prevention
USDA will invest $100 million in developing vaccines and therapeutics to minimize depopulation events. Efforts will include:
- Exploring next-generation vaccines and biotherapeutics.
- Increasing bio-surveillance in and around outbreak zones.
- Collaborating with international trade partners to prevent export market disruptions.
- Engaging state and industry stakeholders in biweekly discussions on vaccine strategy.
5. Exploring Import and Export Adjustments
To stabilize egg prices, USDA will evaluate international best practices and consider:
- Temporarily increasing egg imports while maintaining safety standards.
- Assessing opportunities to boost domestic supply through improved production methods.
A Proactive Response to Industry Challenges
Secretary Rollins emphasized the administration’s commitment to addressing avian flu and its economic impact:
“The previous administration did little to tackle recurring outbreaks and soaring egg prices. Under President Trump’s leadership, we are taking decisive action to support farmers and ensure American families have access to affordable food.”
With a multifaceted strategy combining biosecurity, financial aid, and scientific innovation, the USDA’s approach represents a significant step toward mitigating the effects of avian influenza while strengthening the resilience of the U.S. poultry industry.
Source: USDA
