Trustees describe large bird die‑off, coordinate cleanup and public warnings
Loading...
Summary
Trustees reported an extensive bird die‑off in Georgia Pond and nearby waters, likely highly pathogenic avian influenza; volunteers and town crews collected hundreds of carcasses, DEC has verified avian flu at nearby sites, and trustees posted bilingual warnings and recommended safety measures for anyone encountering dead birds.
Trustee speakers reported a heavy mortality event among waterfowl and other birds, primarily at Georgia Pond. A trustee who led cleanup described collecting roughly 400 carcasses over several days and said volunteers and village crews dug disposal pits and assisted with retrieval.
"I picked up 230 birds that day," the trustee said, describing protective precautions (disposable suits, rubber boots, gloves, bleach) and the need for caution. Trustees said they and DEC staff believe the event is most likely avian influenza; DEC has confirmed bird‑flu cases in nearby locations and advised testing protocols for carcasses.
Trustees reported posting signs in English and Spanish warning the public not to touch dead birds and to report findings through DEC guidance channels. They discussed the low but nonzero risk of transmission to humans and pets and urged people to photograph and report carcasses to the DEC if found.
The board discussed whether to budget for disposal and cleanup costs and said it would continue coordination with DEC and USDA on sample testing and public notices.
