Farm Radio

With many states being affected by the Avian Influenza - Colorado remains on high alert - especially as neighboring Nebraska has two locations that are confirmed Avian Influenza sites. Colorado State Veterinarian Dr. Keith Roehr  says poultry owners must take extra precautions to protect their flocks. Some of the precautions would include making sure domestic flocks- backyard birds and small flocks are not exposed to wild animals. This is recommended for both spring and fall months. Dr. Roehr explains that the virus exists in wildlife. Wild birds get the virus and survive, and they then continue to shed the virus into the environment. As for the larger, commercial operators - Roehr says bio-security measures are a must. He says the Colorado Department of Agriculture has drafted suggested bio-security practices for any producer who would like to obtain them. Nebraska is the closest state with the Influenza, they have two confirmed cases.  Minnesota has been the harde...