USDA Defend the Flock Program

The Defend the Flock program, implemented by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), is a proactive initiative aimed at safeguarding the health and well-being of the nation’s poultry flocks. This comprehensive program focuses on biosecurity practices, disease surveillance, and education to prevent and mitigate the impact of highly contagious poultry diseases, such as avian influenza and virulent Newcastle disease. The USDA provides resources, guidance, and training to poultry producers, backyard flock owners, and industry stakeholders to enhance biosecurity measures and raise awareness about the importance of early detection and reporting of diseases. By promoting a collaborative approach, the Defend the Flock program strives to minimize the risk of disease outbreaks, protect the poultry industry’s economic stability, and maintain the supply of safe and healthy poultry products for consumers.