Committee urges state to consult local poultry farmers on avian influenza response

The Committee on Governmental Operations and External Affairs voted to send Resolution 61-25 to the full Hawaii County Council with a favorable recommendation; the resolution asks the State Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health to consult local poultry owners and consider alternatives to mass depopulation in an avian influenza response.

Hattie Gersh, a lifelong Big Island resident and farmer, testified in favor of the resolution during the committee’s public testimony period. Gersh told the committee she opposes mandatory mass culling of flocks, saying mass depopulation is inhumane and has not demonstrated effectiveness where wild birds have made the virus endemic. She urged the state to consider quarantines, vaccination programs used in some other countries, and support for small farmers and backyard poultry owners.

Councilmember Kimball, who introduced the resolution as a constituent request, said the measure asks state agencies to develop an expedited but consultative plan that accounts for Hawaii’s unique agricultural circumstances. Kimball referred committee members to communication 90.1, materials prepared by the county’s agricultural specialist, for technical background and constituent questions.

Several council members expressed support while emphasizing reliance on science. Councilmember Gillenbeck said the county should “follow the science as much as possible.” Councilmember Villegas cited the recent global pandemic experience, concerns about egg shortages, and the role backyard flocks play in local food resilience. After brief discussion the committee voted to forward the resolution; the clerk recorded eight ayes and one excused.

The resolution requests that state agencies consider alternatives to mass depopulation—quarantine, vaccination, testing and monitoring, and targeted public outreach—and to consult with local poultry farmers when creating response plans.