Concert raises awareness as B.C. ostrich farm faces federal cull order

Universal Ostrich Farms is under a federal order to cull nearly 400 ostriches after two birds tested positive for H5N1 avian influenza, but supporters are rallying behind the farm with a three-day concert aimed at raising awareness and support.

The Live-Stock Music Festival, running July 11–13, 2025, at Universal Ostrich Farms (301 Langille Rd, Edgewood, B.C.), will feature more than 20 performances including Blind Joe, Kat Kolar, Justin Hill, and a special Cowboy Church service with Artur Pawlowski.

The event is being held on the farm grounds, where the ostriches are housed.

Organizers say the concert is in an effort to bring attention to the farm’s situation and its long-standing focus on genetic and immune system research, not meat production.

In February, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) ordered the cull of 398 ostriches following positive PCR tests for H5N1 in two deceased birds.

Although according to the farm, the remaining flock has shown no recent symptoms, a B.C. Supreme Court upheld the cull in April.

Farm representatives say they requested further live bird testing, but that was denied.

In May, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reportedly advised Canadian officials to study the birds instead of destroying them, but CFIA policy allows for pre-emptive culling to reduce risk of disease spread.

Update: The Live-Stock concert is a ticketed event, but for those unable to attend, organizers are encouraging optional donations and inviting music lovers, farmers, and the public to unite in support.

More details, the full artist lineup, and information on how to help can be found at Farm Aid Canada (“Live-Stock”) – July 11-13, 2025.