Iowa department of agriculture takes control of 1.3 million chickens

By Andi Anderson

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship has been granted an emergency court order to take immediate care and control of approximately 1.3 million broiler chickens owned by Pure Prairie Poultry, Inc., a company based in Fairfax, Minnesota.

Pure Prairie Poultry operates a processing facility in Charles City, Iowa, and contracts with farmers across the state to grow broiler chickens.

On September 30, Pure Prairie Poultry informed the Department that due to its financial situation, it was no longer able to purchase feed for the chickens located on 14 farms across Iowa.

Concerned about the welfare of the animals, the Department acted swiftly to address the situation.

After seeking assistance from state and federal agencies as well as industry partners, and with no immediate solution available, the Department cited potential animal welfare concerns.

Under Iowa Code Chapter 717, it obtained an emergency court order to take custody and control of the chickens. This legal authority enabled the Department to ensure the birds received the necessary care.

With the court order now in place, the Department is working closely with the farmers to provide adequate feed and care for the broiler chickens.

The situation is being closely monitored, and the Department plans to seek reimbursement for the costs incurred in caring for the chickens from the responsible parties, possibly through legal actions. Local law enforcement has also been notified about the issue to ensure a smooth resolution.

This situation underscores the importance of financial stability and animal welfare in the agricultural industry, with the Department stepping in to prevent a potential crisis.

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