If you follow the news, you’ve likely seen reports related to avian flu. I want to share some information sent to 4-H Professionals this week for those planning to take poultry projects in 2025.
The Mercer County Fair Board recently made the decision to pause live poultry exhibits at the 2025 Mercer County Fair following a directive from their county commissioners. This precautionary measure aims to mitigate the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and protect their local poultry industry, youth exhibitors, and the broader agricultural community.
Given the evolving nature of the current HPAI situation, it is possible that other counties may consider similar measures in the future. Poultry families are encouraged to use biosecurity practices to limit the spread of HPAI.
At this time, a pause in live poultry exhibits is not in the plans for Muskingum County. Be assured that the Senior Fair Board and Junior Fair Poultry Committee are monitoring the situation closely.
But I wanted to make you aware of some things to consider, in case it would happen.
- Members may want to consider enrolling in a second project if they want to be certain they have the opportunity to exhibit a live animal at the Muskingum County Fair. There is no penalty to the member or the club if the youth later decides not to complete that additional project and do the poultry project only.
- There are measures in place for youth enrolled in a poultry project if the Ohio Department of Agriculture or United State Department of Agriculture would place a ban on live animal exhibition; in which case, youth are permitted to receive a premium for a grade given by the judge on an approved educational display entered in place of the live animal. Youth with market projects are permitted to sell one approved educational display entered in place of the live animal as long as they have no opportunity to participate in a Junior Fair Livestock Sale.