Members of the Wendell Community have organized this event to support Diemand Farm and give a show of solidarity against Referendum Question 3.
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> Referendum Question # 3 and Diemand Farm
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> This bill affects Diemand Farm because of one requirement that is written into the cage specifications and how it is interpreted when it is made a law. Our cages fit the size that they are calling for except where it says that the chickens must be able to "fully spread both wings without touching the side of the enclosure."
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> Chickens do not spread their wings side to side like eagles. They spread them to the back one at a time. Our chickens are one per cage and can stand and move around. They measure 12" by 18" by 18". A few years ago we were inspected by MSPCA and ASPCA and were told that our hens are treated humanely. Our cages are of a size that has been approved of in this state and others. A few years ago HSUS published a list that named Massachusetts as the second best state in treatment of its animals.
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> Our hens are caged, but clean, healthy and safe from dangers like predators, stampeding and cannibalism, they live in clean air. Many do not realize that big, cage free egg operations crowd hens onto vast indoor laying floors that may get deep in droppings because cleaning is difficult. Ammonia builds up in the air. Disease can be more readily transmitted.
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> The cost to keep our current egg production amounts and convert to cage free would be in excess of $250,000. Given that extent of that investment, we would have to be sure that the next generation of Diemands would be interested in continuing the egg business and at this time that is not a certainty. So the downsizing of the egg portion of the business seems to be our only option at this time. We will remodel one barn and reduce our flock from 3000 to 500 and stop wholesaling eggs. We will still carry all our meat birds and sell all of our prepared products. You will still be able come to the farm to get your eggs.
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> Another thing to be aware of is that this bill would prohibit the import of eggs or meat produced by caged animals. There are not enough free-range chickens in MA to supply the millions of eggs purchased by consumers. This would lead to a price increase and probably a shortage of eggs.
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> Massachusetts does not have a problem with factory farms, that is why HSUS has gotten the bill on the ballot. And there isn't push back because we are the only farm could possibly effect. We do not in any way condone the cruel treatment of animals but feel that this bill isn't needed in Massachusetts.
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> https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=ufMOWONaX6I
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> One more thing. There is a video on youtube that will give you a look at our operations. The link is above or you can google Diemand Farm response to HSUS.
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> I hope this answers your question and thank you for your thoughtful inquiry.
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> The Diemand Farm Family
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> Diemand Farm Store
> 126 Mormon Hollow Rd
> Wendell, MA 01379