Iowa Avian Influenza Information Carcass Disposal Information

In the event poultry need to be euthanized, the Iowa DNR would be responsible for coordinating disposal of the carcasses. The method of disposal will be determined by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship based on an analysis of the facility, geography, and area conditions where the infected flock(s) are located.

The US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) has put out a guidance document on Disposal of Domestic Birds Infected by Avian Influenza - An Overview of Considerations & Options (pdf file).

In general the Iowa DNR recommends two disposal methods for mass carcass disposal. For smaller quantities and special conditions three additional disposal methods could be utilized. The Iowa DNR strongly discourages the open burning of carcasses due to air quality issues, the potential spread of disease not destroyed in the fire, and aesthetics of burn piles. Each recommended method is outlined below. For more detailed information check the ISU Extension Service site.

For All Disposal Situations

Composting - Recent research conducted by Iowa State University indicated the composting of carcasses is a viable option. Composting has the advantage of being easily maintained and monitored while providing for the complete breakdown of the carcass and destruction of many diseases. The DNR's composting plan is based on this research and for much of Iowa this option is the best option. Iowa State University put out a publication Composting Dead Livestock (pdf file) that provides additional information on composting.

Burial - Burial can be undertaken at or near the site or at a nearby landfill (when accepted by the landfill). Burial has been the method most often used in Iowa for many years. When properly done burial protects the environment and the public from the spread of disease. The DNR's burial plan is based on an analysis of site conditions and vulnerabilities. Burial is a good option in much of Iowa.

For Limited Disposal Situations

Rendering - Rendering is an acceptable option for the disposal of carcasses. However, two main drawbacks to rendering make it a limited option. One, The DNR does not recommend transporting potentially diseased carcasses great distances. The risk of transmitting the disease to areas where the disease is not present limits this option to situations where rendering facilities are located near or in adjacent to quarantine areas. Second, Rendering facilities are privately owned companies and have the option to refuse carcasses for any reason.

Incineration - Incineration (not open burning or burn pits or burn piles) is an acceptable option for the disposal of carcasses if the facility is properly licensed. The limiting factor for fixed facility incineration is similar to that of rendering. Fixed facility incinerators may also have limited capacity and would not be able to handle a large number of carcasses quickly. There are mobile incineration facilities in the midwest. These incinerators could be moved to a site for the disposal of carcasses, however their mobility also limits their size and capacity. Mobile facilities would also need to be approved by the DNR and properly licensed before beginning operation.

Alkaline Hydrolysis Digestion - The National Veterinarian Services Laboratory in Ames has an alkaline hydrolysis digestion system for complete destruction of carcasses. The digestion process is slow and the number of carcasses that can be handled in a day is limited. The system is also stationary so carcasses would need to be transported to the laboratory for digestion.