Washington, D.C. –National Turkey Federation (NTF) Vice Chairman John Zimmerman today told a House subcommittee that the turkey industry will continue to need federal resources to combat Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and that the next Farm Bill can play a key role in the process.

Testifying at the U.S. House Agriculture Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy and Poultry hearing, “A Review of Animal Agriculture Stakeholder Priorities,” Zimmerman commended USDA on its efforts in the fight against HPAI but urged Congress to provide the resources necessary for the department to hire new veterinarians and to continue indemnifying farms  where HPAI is detected.  He also called on USDA to focus on developing a vaccine against the current HPAI strain and to negotiate with our trading partners so that vaccination does not disrupt the poultry and egg industries’ ability to export.  Zimmerman also said the next Farm Bill should retain the three-tiered animal disease preparedness program passed in the 2018 Farm Bill. Video can be found here.

“NTF hopes lawmakers take into consideration the testimony of farmers, ranchers and producers, like John Zimmerman, who will be directly impacted by this fundamental piece of legislation,” said Joel Brandenberger, President of the National Turkey Federation. “NTF thanks John Zimmerman for representing the turkey industry’s voice in the conversation and looks forward to continuing the dialogue as progress on the Farm Bill persists.”

About the National Turkey Federation

The National Turkey Federation (NTF) is the national advocate for America’s turkey farmers and producers, raising awareness for its members’ products while strengthening their ability to profitably and safely deliver wholesome, high-quality and nutritious food to consumers worldwide. NTF is the sole national trade association exclusively representing the turkey industry; its members account for more than 95 percent of all U.S. turkey production.