(EMAILWIRE.COM, August 02, 2008 ) Harrisburg, PA – High feed and fuel prices were among the hot topics discussed at the American Emu Association (AEA) convention. The convention was held in Harrisburg, PA and ran from July 17th through 20th. The Montana Emu Association (MTEA) was represented by its president, Clover Quinn, of Hamilton. Quinn is currently serving her second year on the American Emu Association board of directors. According to USDA there are 38 emu farms scattered across the state. MTEA is a state affiliate of the AEA, a national emu organization that supports the emu industry by promoting research and public awareness of emu products.

“We are experiencing the same crunch as other livestock farmers,” states Quinn. “Many of our farmers report 40% feed price increases over last year.” AEA made a Feed Formulizer computer program available to members interested in reformulating or checking the nutritional value of their feeds. Even with soaring costs, Quinn says that farmers looking for an alternative livestock may find emu attractive. “The birds are docile, quiet, easy to raise and they produce a number of marketable end products,” said Quinn. “Here in Montana, many emu farms have evolved into integrated farming operations. They raise the birds; arrange for processing and then have those raw products turned into end products which they sell.” Emu co-products include the fat which is turned into health and beauty products, the feathers and hide that are used in the fashion industry. Emu eggshells are sought by egg artists and crafters. Fresh emu eggs are available seasonably, November through April.

For more information about the Montana Emu Association, call (406) 363-1710.

For more information about the American Emu Association (AEA) or the emu industry, visit the AEA website http://www.aea-emu.org or call - 541-332-0675.

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American Emu Association
Tel: (541) 332-0675
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