Poultry pulled from 2022 Alaska State Fair livestock exhibits

PALMER — The Alaska State Fair recently announced that poultry will not be present during the 2022 livestock exhibits as a cautionary measure in wake of the first case of Avian Influenza in Alaskan history.

According to a recent press release, the first case of Avian Influenza, commonly referred to as Bird Flu, was confirmed April 29. Fair officials indicated that the virus is deadly and highly contagious among various bird species, so there will be no turkeys, chickens, geese or ducks exhibited this season.

“This was a difficult decision for the Fair to make, but after evaluating the risks and benefits, and listening to the expert recommendations, we believe it is best to err on the side of caution in order to keep Alaska livestock healthy and food safe,” Alaska State Fair CEO Jerome Hertel stated in the press release.

Nearly every bird is not permitted this year, but one type is still allowed: baby chicks. According to the press release, the disease does not affect chicks in the egg so the popular exhibit will be in its usual location in Craig Taylor Farm Exhibits.

The 4-H Jr. Market Livestock Auction will also take place on Saturday, September 3, with some modifications. Poultry will not be on display during the Fair or auction, but 4-H youth will have photos and descriptions of their birds for interested buyers. To learn more, visit alaska4h.org.

For more information about the 2022 Alaska State Fair season, visit visit alaskastatefair.org