Every time you enjoy eggs for breakfast or milk in your coffee, know that USGS scientists are working behind the scenes to keep those foods safe and available!

The path from farm to table starts with healthy animals – including ducks, cows, turkeys and chickens.

The current avian influenza outbreak has affected over 166 million poultry since 2022, resulting in the average annual loss of 42.3 million egg-laying chickens. The egg shortages and price increases impact Americans across the country. But USGS researchers are fighting back!

Our scientists have pioneered methods to detect “live” avian influenza viruses in water bodies—a critical breakthrough that helps predict where the disease might spread next. This research can provide early warnings to poultry and dairy farmers, allowing them to strengthen biosecurity measures before the virus reaches their animals.

By understanding how this virus travels through our environment—in water, air, and soil—we’re developing practical ways to deactivate it and prevent further spread. This science directly supports our nation’s food security by protecting the poultry and dairy industries that feed America.

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