WACD Reading List

Bird flu was detected in a small backyard flock in Lewis County, Wash., the third case of avian influenza in domestic birds in the state in the past two weeks. Migratory waterfowl are spreading the virus, according to the Washington State Department of Agriculture. "Every backyard flock is at risk right now," State Veterinarian Amber Itle said in a statement.

Four workers at a poultry farm in Franklin County, Wash., tested positive for bird flu, the Washington Department of Health announced Oct. 20. The infected workers had mild symptoms and were treated with medications. Other workers are being tested, according to the department.

Farmers are among the most likely to die by suicide compared with any other occupation, according to a 2020 study by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. With COVID-19 fallout, record debts, drought, wildfires and a lack of access to counselors, the need for a conversation about mental health and solutions in rural America is more urgent than ever, experts said. "Therapists may not fully get that a lot of these farmers literally would rather die than lose the farm that has been in their family for 100 to 120 years," said McConkey. She said it's vital to provide an understanding of mental health to everyone associated with agriculture. Crop consultants, agronomists, crop insurance salesmen, seed salesmen and elevator employees should all know the warning signs of someone struggling with mental health issues.