USDA Enhances Strategy Against Avian Influenza as Egg Prices Decline
In a recent announcement, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins updated the public on the USDA’s comprehensive five-part plan designed to battle highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). This initiative, first revealed in February, aims to safeguard the nation’s poultry sector amidst decreasing egg prices and heightened biosecurity measures.
Egg Prices Cooling Down
After reaching exceptional heights earlier this year, wholesale egg prices have plummeted by 64%, with retail prices also dropping by 27%. This decline provides a sigh of relief for both consumers and poultry producers. However, the USDA stresses the importance of maintaining vigilance as the fall season approaches, a critical period historically associated with increased risks of avian influenza outbreaks.
Expanding Biosecurity Measures
At the core of the USDA’s strategy are two voluntary, cost-free biosecurity assessments for poultry farmers. One assessment is aimed at reducing wildlife risks, while the other focuses on improving overall biosecurity protocols. The USDA fully funds these evaluations and will cover up to 75% of the costs incurred in rectifying highlighted high-risk areas.
As part of this effort, a total of 948 biosecurity assessments have been completed across the nation. Michigan has seen participation from 25 poultry operations, ranking it ninth in both assessment uptake and the overall number of poultry farms, which totals 8,264 statewide.
Poultry farmers interested in scheduling a biosecurity assessment can reach out via email at poultry.biosecurity@usda.gov or by calling 844-820-2234 for assistance.
Additional Strategic Initiatives
1. Financial Assistance for Repopulation
The USDA has allocated over $70 million in indemnity funds since February 27, 2025, to support producers in rebuilding flocks affected by HPAI. This financial support has enabled many farmers to recover swiftly following outbreaks.
2. Regulatory Streamlining for Producers
Regulatory reforms have been implemented to reduce the burden on poultry farmers. These include the elimination of unnecessary worker safety documentation and the extension of processing line speed waivers. In a significant move, the USDA has also withdrawn a contentious proposal related to Salmonella regulations in raw poultry products.
3. Promotion of Innovative Disease Prevention
In May, the USDA concluded the application process for its HPAI Poultry Innovation Grand Challenge, which attracted 417 submissions requesting a total of $793 million in funding. These proposals aim to advance research on prevention, treatment, and vaccine development related to avian influenza, with award announcements set to occur this fall.
4. Strategic Egg Imports to Ensure Supply Stability
Over 40 million eggs and egg products were imported in 2025 from countries such as Brazil, Mexico, Turkey, and South Korea to bolster domestic supply. Additionally, three new processing facilities — two in New York and one in Arkansas — have been approved to manage these imports, bringing the total number of authorized facilities to six.
Looking to the Future
While officials with the USDA are optimistic about the advancements made thus far, they continue to encourage poultry producers of all sizes to utilize available resources. Proactive biosecurity assessments remain essential in mitigating HPAI risks as the fall season draws near.
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