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How do the stocking rates proposed in this rule compare with organic standards in Canada and <br />the European Union? <br />The AMS proposed stocking rates are comparable to current rates under Canada and European Union <br />(EU) standards. One difference between the standards is the AMS proposed stocking rate is adjusted for <br />different types of housing (aviary vs. floor, for example), whereas the Canada and EU standards set a <br />single indoor stocking rate for all types of fixed housing. <br />How does this compare to other standards (private animal welfare standards and other federal <br />agencies)? <br />AMS proposes the use of pounds of bird per square foot to standardize requirements across different <br />bird species and sizes as well as housing types; this more consistently aligns with the majority of private <br />third -party animal welfare standards. <br />Why can't an outdoor area have a solid roof? <br />A solid roof may be provided in the outdoor area. However, if the solid roof is attached to the indoor <br />housing structure, the area under the roof cannot be included in the calculation of available outdoor <br />area. We have proposed this requirement to ensure that porches and similar structures are not <br />considered outdoor areas, as recommended by the National Organic Standards Board. <br />Won't requiring more outdoor access make birds more susceptible to diseases, such as highly <br />pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI)? <br />All systems of poultry production are vulnerable to disease, and effective biosecurity measures are <br />essential whether birds are raised in indoor or outdoor production systems. If it is determined that <br />temporary confinement of birds is needed to protect the health, safety, and welfare of organic flocks, <br />then producers and certifiers may work together to determine an appropriate method and duration of <br />confinement of organic poultry flocks without a loss of organic certification. AMS has developed a Fact <br />Sheet on Biosecurity in Organic Poultry operations, and the proposed rule would not change any of <br />those policies. In addition, the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service reviewed the proposed rule <br />and determined that it would not have any negative impact on APHIS biosecurity efforts surrounding <br />HPAI or other poultry diseases of concern. <br />With so many birds on the soil, will that cause environmental problems from too much <br />manure? <br />Organic poultry producers must manage manure to ensure that soil and water quality are protected. <br />Under organic requirements and other applicable requirements (e.g., Clean Water Act requirements), <br />organic producers need to implement practices, including manure management practices, to ensure <br />land and water quality are protected. <br />Livestock and Poultry Handling Questions <br />Does the proposal allow euthanasia? <br />AMS has included requirements for euthanasia, including euthanasia of injured, diseased, and sick <br />animals. Additionally, AMS is proposing a separate but related section to describe slaughter <br />April 6, 2016 <br />