Colorado Agriculture Department outlines response to high path avian influenza and budget updates

The Colorado Agricultural Commission convened on January 15, 2025, to address pressing issues affecting the state's agricultural landscape, including updates on foreign animal diseases, egg supply challenges, and the introduction of new personnel within the Department of Agriculture.

The meeting began with a detailed update on the ongoing high-path avian influenza (AI) outbreak, which has persisted for three years. Officials reported that all 64 commercial dairies previously affected by AI have been released from quarantine, marking a significant milestone. The state continues to conduct mandatory weekly bulk tank testing of commercial dairies, with plans to potentially ease these protocols as Colorado is now disease-free. The situation in California remains dire, with ongoing outbreaks impacting both poultry and dairy sectors.

The discussion then shifted to the egg supply crisis, attributed to the high-path AI outbreak that has affected approximately 30 million domestic birds nationwide since February 2022. Colorado experienced its peak outbreak in July 2024, impacting around 3.3 million birds. Retail egg prices have surged, leading some stores to impose purchase limits. The state is actively collaborating with retailers and producers to address supply chain challenges exacerbated by natural disasters and increased holiday demand.

Next, the commission addressed the emergence of the New World screwworm, a significant threat to livestock. Following the detection of cases in Mexico, the USDA has imposed restrictions on cattle exports from Mexico to the U.S. The commission is closely monitoring this situation, alongside other foreign animal diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease, which has recently been detected in Germany.

The meeting also highlighted the ongoing efforts to support coexistence between livestock producers and reintroduced wolf populations in Colorado. The Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) is working with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to implement non-lethal measures to protect livestock, including the establishment of a range rider program to assist ranchers during calving and lambing seasons.

In personnel updates, the commission welcomed Evan Cabiness as the new Conservation Service Division Director. Cabiness, a rancher with extensive experience in agricultural conservation, expressed her commitment to enhancing programs that support Colorado's producers. Additionally, the CDA announced the hiring of Dr. Erin McGrath as the assistant state veterinarian, along with two regional specialists focused on agricultural workforce support.

The meeting concluded with a legislative update, noting the start of the legislative session and the introduction of numerous bills. The department is currently reviewing these bills and will provide updates on positions and recommendations in the coming weeks.

Overall, the meeting underscored the Colorado Agricultural Commission's proactive approach to addressing current challenges in agriculture, emphasizing collaboration among stakeholders and the importance of adapting to evolving circumstances in the agricultural sector.