USDA Declares Vermont Dairy Farms Free of Bird Flu Amid Epidemic
Source: dairynews.today
Vermont dairy farms have been declared 'unaffected' by the bird flu epidemic by the USDA, following extensive testing programs.
Amid ongoing concerns about avian influenza outbreaks, Vermont has achieved a significant milestone by being the first New England state declared free of bird flu in its dairy farms, as announced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on May 15, 2025. A rigorous milk sampling program mandated by the USDA was conducted, assessing all Vermont Grade A milk and raw milk from cheese makers, and found no infections.
This effort involved 411 farms across the state with the USDA covering the costs, ensuring no burdens on the dairy farmers. "This sampling program is a first-of-its-kind system built by a team of Vermonters who wanted to bring peace of mind and protection to our dairy farmers, food processors and cheese makers," stated E.B. Flory, the dairy section chief at Vermont's Agency of Agriculture.
This effort involved 411 farms across the state with the USDA covering the costs, ensuring no burdens on the dairy farmers. "This sampling program is a first-of-its-kind system built by a team of Vermonters who wanted to bring peace of mind and protection to our dairy farmers, food processors and cheese makers," stated E.B. Flory, the dairy section chief at Vermont's Agency of Agriculture.
