United States: A fatal H5N1 avian flu outbreak at Crescent Duck Farm forced the elimination of approximately 100,000 ducks from the Long Island facility which closed down as the region’s final operational duck farm. The Corwin family has maintained operations at their farm since 1908 and remains central to the local industry by providing 3.5% of national duck market consumption while fulfilling orders from restaurants across New York to Boston, as reported by HealthDay.
The Impact of Bird Flu
State and federal officials implemented severe decontamination protocols after the outbreak forced them to depopulate the site to stop additional spread. Dr. Gregson Pigott from Suffolk County Health confirmed that people face minimal risk although workers who touch sick flocks face potential workplace hazards.
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Preserving a Unique Genetic Line
Owner Doug Corwin remains hopeful about the future, focusing on preserving the farm’s prized genetic duck line. Known for its tender meat and ideal fat content, this line is crucial to Crescent’s reputation among high-end chefs. A nearby hatchery has been authorized to incubate selected eggs, offering a glimmer of hope for recovery.
Uncertain Future Without Vaccination
Despite these efforts, Corwin is hesitant to rebuild without a USDA-approved vaccine to combat the virus. “I will not experience such things once more,” he said, reflecting on the immense toll the outbreak has taken.
Economic Fallout
The farm, already struggling from the effects of COVID-19, has laid off 45 of its 75 employees. Corwin described the current situation as the most challenging he has faced in his decades of managing the business, as reported by HealthDay.
A Vanishing Industry
Crescent Duck Farm stands as the last of what was once 90 duck farms on Long Island during the mid-20th century. Its survival is now uncertain, marking a critical moment for the region’s agricultural heritage.
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