Could animal rights activists have been responsible for spreading avian flu at Sonoma County poultry farms? Investigators say probably, but activists say that regulators are trying to divert blame away from problems inherent in the poultry industry.
A California State Department of Food and Agriculture investigation found that activists may have spread avian flu in Sonoma County last year.Could animal rights activists have been responsible for spreading avian flu at Sonoma County poultry farms? A new investigation by the State Department of Food and Agriculture finds thata possibility. But the activists tell us that regulators are trying to divert blame away from problems inherent in the poultry industry.
Bill Mattos of the California Poultry Federation tells us that the avian flu outbreak was devastating for the poultry industry in Sonoma County -- more than 250,000 chicken and ducks were killed. The activists from Direction Action Everywhere posted video from the farms last fall, saying, "We have gone back to Sunrise and Reichardt and we have documented more criminal animal cruelty and we have saved several more lives, including Elsie and River."
The state report also raises concerns about biosecurity -- different farms sharing personnel and equipment, and it says the avian flu most probably came from wild birds and that the wind can spread it across different farms.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Sonoma County man sentenced to nearly 13 years in prison for molesting two childrenA man was sentenced earlier this week to 12 years and eight months in prison after he was convicted last year of molesting two children, Sonoma County prosecutors said.
Read more »
Sonoma County Sheriff's Office identifies John Doe found in 2001; investigation continuesThe Sonoma County Sheriff's Office is asking the public for help after identifying a John Doe whose identity had been unknown since 2001.
Read more »
Sonoma County legal weed businesses face hard financial times despite recently reduced taxSonoma County supervisors on Tuesday took the unusual step of voting to reduce taxes on cannabis production, recognizing that the industry has hit hard times.
Read more »
Wine Tasting Event in Sonoma CountyJoin in for a one-of-a kind afternoon of wine tasting, appetizers, & live entertainment, featuring some of the best Sonoma County Wineries!
Read more »
Groups seek to ban large-scale animal farming in Sonoma CountyAnimal rights activists are promoting a ballot initiative that would ban factory farming in Sonoma County. Large farming interests are not happy.
Read more »
Restrictions on size of CAFO animal farms in Sonoma County to be decided by votersSonoma County voters will be asked this November if they want to restrict the size of animal farms.
Read more »