When it comes to reducing the threat of avian influenza in the poultry and egg barns of the Fraser Valley, a program using high-tech tools may be just what the doctor ordered.
About 75 poultry farms will be upgrading their barns with the help of a $2.5-million program called Novel Tools and Technologies, according to an Aug. 15 release from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food.
"Fraser Valley farmers have been battling avian influenza since the first outbreak in 2004, adopting strict biosecurity measures so British Columbians can continue to enjoy the eggs and poultry we rely on," said Agriculture Minister Lana Popham.
"Despite the personal stress and losses caused by the virus, producers still rise every morning to care for their birds and build our food supply. This program will help them do that by adding extra defence measures against the virus to their barns."
Egg and poultry producers are installing air filters and ultraviolet light systems with grants of up to $30,000, to help protect flocks from avian influenza, and they're aiming for completion this fall.
Despite enhanced biosecurity and keeping birds indoors during migrations, farms in the valley and across the Lower Mainland suffered nearly 200 outbreaks since 2022.
The virus can enter barns through airflow, outdoor water sources or other means, reflecting the complex nature of disease control and modes of transmission in poultry operations.
The virus led to nine million birds in B.C. being euthanized since 2022, with the last reported case in a commercial flock coming at the end of the last fall migration period in January 2025.
"This program is the result of farmers, government and researchers working together to find practical, science-based solutions to a complex disease challenge," said Kevin Klippenstein, chair of the B.C. Chicken Marketing Board and B.C. Poultry Emergency Operations Centre.
A working group of poultry farmers, researchers, poultry veterinarians, barn engineers and Ministry of Agriculture and Food staff put the program together, which is also developing guidance on other tools and technologies that help mitigate the risk through the management of waterfowl, water, pest and waste management.
"BC Egg welcomes the B.C. government's investment in its farmers with the new program," said BC Egg chair Al Sakalauskas.
"Producers have been hit hard by avian influenza, and this initiative will help them explore new and innovative ways for prevention as we seek a long-term solution to combating this disease."
Most projects should be complete by fall 2025, as fall is when the disease is at the highest risk of spreading to poultry on farms or backyard flocks.