B.C. Officials Block Ostrich Carcass Disposal Pending Further Testing

Overview

• The Regional District of Central Kootenay has resolved to withhold landfill acceptance of ostrich carcasses from Universal Ostrich Farm until further testing confirms avian flu infection status.
• The decision follows a Federal Court ruling earlier this week that upheld the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) December 2024 cull order for 400 ostriches exposed to avian flu.
• Local officials emphasized that while they lack authority over federal cull decisions, they do control regional waste management policies.
• The landfill resolution aims to provide a potential reprieve for the farm and its ostriches, drawing significant attention and support from local and international communities.
• Dozens of supporters have gathered at the farm in Edgewood, B.C., to oppose the CFIA’s planned cull, with the landfill resolution met with expressions of gratitude from the farm's advocates.