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While the sound of cows and their unmistakable aroma are integral to the atmosphere of state fairs, some events are shifting to artificial alternatives this year.
This change is primarily due to the emergence of avian flu that has impacted nearly 200 cattle herds this season, prompting fair organizers in various states to innovate.
“Typically, we would showcase a real cow,” remarked Jill Nathe, Minnesota State Fair’s deputy general manager of agriculture and competition, in an interview with Reuters. “However, under current circumstances, that’s not feasible.”
In response, the fair’s Moo Booth plans to feature Olympia, a cow replica, during its milking demonstrations.
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A dairy exhibitor presents a cow at the state fair in West Allis, Wisconsin, on August 9, 2024. Dairy producers are implementing rigorous testing protocols for avian flu during cattle exhibitions at the fair. (Reuters/Jim Vindruska)
At this year’s fair, strict hygiene measures have been established, including providing gloves and face masks for those interacting with livestock, and pregnant cows have been barred from the birthing center.
In a similar vein, the Michigan State Fair will forgo real cows for its milking demonstrations, opting for Milkshake and Buttercup, fiberglass replicas equipped with rubber teats filled with water.
Additionally, there have been reports of thirteen farmworkers contracting the avian flu, with concerns that the actual number may be higher. Fortunately, all affected individuals have since recovered.
Other state fairs, such as the Iowa State Fair, have outright canceled interactive cow attractions, and numerous states now mandate that all featured animals test negative for the virus prior to admission.
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An oversized fiberglass cow stands at a farm. (Edwin Remsburg/VW Pics via Getty Images)
Wisconsin sisters, Jennifer and Bethany Droessler, brought their cattle to the fair but chose to leave a lactating cow at home as a precautionary measure.
“We’re planning on next year, hoping this issue will resolve by then,” stated Jennifer Droessler in her comments to Reuters.
A cow is groomed by an exhibitor during the state fair in West Allis, Wisconsin, on August 9, 2024. Dairy farmers are enhancing biosecurity measures while showcasing cattle at the fair. (REUTERS/Jim Vondruska)
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has indicated that the virus poses a low risk to the public outside of agricultural environments.
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In light of the circumstances, the CDC has urged fair attendees to exercise caution regarding food and beverage consumption and contact with animals while participating in the events.
This report incorporates information gathered from Reuters.
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