Feenstra Issues Statement on Confirmed Reports of Bird Flu in Northwest Iowa

HULL, IOWA — Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) issued the following statement after cases of High Path Avian Influenza (HPAI) were confirmed in Northwest Iowa — impacting over four million birds in Sioux County and two dairy farms in both Sioux and O’Brien counties.

“Confirmed reports of bird flu in Northwest Iowa are a serious concern for me, our producers, and our economy. Since last week, I’ve been in touch with Governor Reynolds, Secretary Naig, and the USDA to ensure that our producers have the support they need, and I applaud the quick response by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.

This crisis reveals exactly why we must pass the Farm Bill this year. It includes critical support for animal health initiatives so that we can prevent, mitigate, and respond to disease outbreaks ranging from bird flu to African Swine Fever.

With nearly a quarter of the almost 100 million impacted birds being from Iowa, we don’t have time to wait. I’ll continue to work with Governor Reynolds and Secretary Naig to find solutions and urge swift passage of the Farm Bill this year.”

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