Poultry and dairy cows to return to fair in 2026

The Mariposa County Fair looked a little different last year as there was no poultry to be seen.

This was due to a statewide ban of poultry and dairy cows, which had been put into place to counter the H5N1 avian influenza.

Where there were typically ducks, chickens and poultry galore, the bird barn instead held posters and photos where FFA and 4-H kids could still explain their knowledge of the animals.

“I haven’t gotten instructions just yet,” said Mariposa County Fairgrounds General Manager Leslie Foley.

“But, we were notified the ban has been lifted so I’m assuming we’re good to go on everything at this point.”

The ban was lifted last month following a review of current infection trends and mitigation measures, a letter by State Veterinarian Dr. Annette Jones explained.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture said the decision came after months of surveillance, analysis of viral trend data and consultation with state and federal epidemiologists and animal health partners.

“CDFA recognizes the importance of protecting animal health, public health and California’s agricultural industries while also supporting youth programs, educational opportunities and agricultural traditions across the state,” the letter explained.

“Based on a comprehensive review of current H5N1 infection trends, improved understanding of transmission dynamics and enhanced mitigation measures now in place, CDFA has determined that the risk associated with poultry and dairy cattle exhibitions has sufficiently decreased,” Jones said.

The ban had affected many 4-H and FFA projects as the animals were no longer permitted at fairs, livestock shows and events throughout the state.

“There was definitely disappointment last year,” Foley said.

“But everyone knew. Most kids who were doing poultry switched to rabbits.”

While exhibitions are now allowed, the California Department of Food and Agriculture strongly encourages fairgrounds, organizers and exhibitors to continue enhanced biosecurity and disease prevention practices.

“We don’t do dairy cows but poultry is inspected by a licensed state inspector before they come on the fairgrounds,” Foley explained.

“If they’re diseased, they’re not allowed to come onto the grounds.”

Animals showing signs of illness should not be transported or exhibited and veterinarians should be contacted promptly if disease is suspected.

Suspected cases of H5N1 in poultry or cattle should be reported to the California Department of Food and Agriculture Sick Bird Hotline at (866)922-2473.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture officials said the department will continue to monitor H5N1 activity statewide and will work with fair organizers and animal owners to ensure safeguards remain in place.

Additional guidance for exhibitions will be posted on the California Department of Food and Agriculture website at www.cdfa.ca.gov/