Across the U.S. the bird flu outbreak has caused big egg price increases, higher demands, and even egg rations. But in Montana, egg producers aren’t seeing similar changes.David Hofer of Surprise Creek Hutterite Colony says he hasn’t been impacted by the bird flu at all.
"Someone just told me the price went up but I haven’t really checked on it. I’ve been keeping them the same."
Hofer supplies his eggs to the central Montana area, his biggest market being Lewistown.
According to the Great Falls Tribune, Hutterite colonies are responsible for 98% of egg production in Montana.
John Walkup, another egg producer in Ronan, says he’s seeing lower demand.
“Lots of people have their own egg productions, ya know the little backyard flocks...We haven’t raised our prices at all and don’t intend to. If the stores are charging more, they’re making the profit themselves.”
The Billings Gazette reported egg prices have more than doubled in the last month.
Walkup’s eggs are certified organic, and fill niche markets in western Montana. He also exports some out of state.
He says bird flu has created more work for him. Instead of being able to turn his chickens out during the day to graze grass, he has to produce additional feed for the birds, like he does in winter months. This is because of a waterfowl advisory given by the state vet. Hofer’s chickens are confined so change in care hasn’t been needed.
According to the USDA, over 46 million birds have been affected by bird flu since the first detection in December. Montana has reported only two cases, including a captive falcon.
