08/09/06 Being Cautious at the Fair

Being cautious at the fair. I'm Greg Martin with today's Northwest Report. With continued attention on the highly pathogenic strain of avian influenza that has affected other parts of the world, the key concept for county fairs this summer is, once again, biosecurity, according to State Veterinarian Dr. Don Hansen of the Oregon Department of Agriculture: HANSEN: Biosecurity is always important and the fact that you are taking your animals to a fair increases that animal`s risk for potential disease, therefore your reliance on biosecurity measures for the safety of your animal at the fair and other animals visiting the fair at the same time. It`s important to note that the H5N1 strain of avian influenza is not present in the United States and the public need not be alarmed. Still, ODA is going to take advantage of bird gatherings at fairs this summer as part of a national surveillance effort, by asking exhibitors for permission to examine poultry: HANSEN: We`re going to be trying to sample most birds that are being exhibited at fairs this year, looking for any sign of avian influenza virus. Livestock owners bringing animals to the fair are advised to make sure those animals are clean and healthy before they arrive and during their stay. The public is encouraged to enjoy county fairs but to also remember to wash hands after touching animals, especially before eating food. Now with today's Food Forethought, here's Susan Allen. Who knows what crop perils will foil NW farmers in 2007. No one could have predicted the wet spring, hot summer and barrage of hail and lightening storms that have challenged our agricultural community. I want to encourage my friends who farm in the beautiful Northwest to make sure you are up to date on next years crop insurance. In fact I just received an e-mail reminder from USDA risk manager Jo Lynne Seufer who wished to alert our growing region to the final fall closing dates to purchase Multi-Peril Crop Insurance. Canola and Rapeseed is set for August 31 for Fall planted types. Onions are also August 31 for growers in Walla Walla and Umatilla county. Mint, Alfalfa Barley, and Wheat growers have until October 2 but I wouldn't wait until the last minute as you might wish to make coverage changes. For more information you can always contact a local MPCI agent. To locate a list of crop insurance agents in your region call your USDA Center or go online at usda.gov. Thanks Susan. That's today's Northwest Report. I'm Greg Martin on the Northwest Ag Information Network.