First 2026 HPAI Case in Georgia and AFBF's Annual Convention
From the Ag Information Network, I’m Bob Larson with your Agribusiness Update.
**The Georgia Department of Agriculture and the USDA has confirmed a case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza at a commercial poultry operation in Walker County.
This marks the first confirmed case in 2026 and the fourth at a Georgia commercial poultry operation since the outbreak began in February 2022.
Georgia Ag Commissioner, Tyler Harper says Avian influenza poses a serious threat to Georgia’s #1 industry and to the thousands whose livelihoods depend on poultry production.
**Farmer and rancher delegates at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 107th annual convention adopted several policies to guide their work in the new year.
Delegates adopted policy to improve labor programs to meet the needs of America’s farmers and ranchers, including support for the new Adverse Effect Wage Rate methodology, and further revisions to avoid unpredictable rate swings in the future.
They also voted to support federal funding for research and biosecurity facilities.
**State officials are warning livestock producers after a confirmed case of New World screwworm was found about 215 miles from the Texas border in Mexico.
The parasitic pest, which can cause serious livestock injury and economic loss, was detected in a 7-year-old cow.
Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller says there’s no evidence the pest has established a breeding population, but producers along the border should inspect animals daily and report suspicious cases immediately.
