Lincoln Chafee: “First, everyone involved with this situation agrees that depopulation is the best strategy for dealing with the problem.…”

“First, everyone involved with this situation agrees that depopulation is the best strategy for dealing with the problem. The Rhode Island Division of Agriculture, the State Veterinarian, and the farmer favor depopulation and disinfection. And I understand that APHIS has been successful in taking this approach with poultry operations in Virginia and Texas. Second, it is evident that without some compensation, the farm will face bankruptcy. Maintaining the viability of Rhode Island's family farms is a critical element of our efforts to preserve the state's character, as well as the natural landscape. Third, I am told that in rare circumstances, low pathogenic forms of avian influenza can transform into high pathogenic organisms that pose serious threats to human health. Not surprisingly, the presence of avian influenza on American poultry and egg farms is a matter of grave concern to our trading partners. No one wants to give the virus an opportunity to mutate. Given the risks associated with avian influenza and the clear evidence that the current protocol was not successful in containing the original Connecticut outbreak, I am anxious to find a solution to this problem.”