The environmental conflict surrounding a contamination complaint against the poultry farm Jurjen has once again taken center stage in the Environmental Commission of the Necochea City Council.
Residents of the Los Tilos neighborhood appeared once more to demand solutions to what they describe as an “unsustainable” situation, marked by nauseating odors, fly infestations, and improper waste management.
Neighborhood Complaints and Contamination Complaint to the Ombudsman
Residents submitted a note accompanied by more than 300 signatures and presented the complaint filed with the Ombudsman.
“We can’t live like this anymore,” they expressed, pointing out that the poor handling of manure, broken eggs, and dead chickens generates contamination that directly affects the quality of life throughout the area.
Background and Pending Controls
The Director of Environment, Isabel Genova, recalled that a year and a half ago, while touring the Jurjen poultry farm, “the white pens were black, infested with flies.” At that time, a report was filed because the farm was not authorized, and its regularization was requested.
The file was referred to the Fines Court, and although the company changed management, residents claim that the situation has not fully improved.
Measures Agreed by the Commission
In light of this situation, the Commission resolved to:
- Update controls together with SENASA.
- Make suggestions for good environmental practices.
- Increase the frequency of waste removal.
- Supervise the treatment of animal carcasses.
- Submit the complaint to Agricultural Affairs, Ecological Police, Urban Control, and SENASA.
Additionally, a control was rescheduled for November 15, with the aim of verifying daily waste handling and filing complaints if new irregularities are detected.
Institutional Version and Neighborhood Criticism
The official statement from the City Council noted that “the Commission received Isabel Genova and residents from neighboring neighborhoods —9 de Julio, Los Tilos, and Camioneros— who expressed their dissatisfaction with the number of flies.” It was also reported that the owner of the poultry farm and provincial agencies would be invited to explain pest control systems.
However, residents claim that this description “does not reflect the real severity of the problem” they experience daily.
Importance of Poultry Control
The case of Jurjen highlights the need for rigorous control of poultry companies, essential for:
1. Animal Health and Welfare
- Prevention of diseases such as avian influenza or salmonellosis.
- Good environmental practices that reduce stress and improve bird health.
2. Product Quality and Safety
- Ensure that poultry products are safe for human consumption.
- Ensure traceability throughout the production chain.
3. Economic Efficiency and Competitiveness
- Monitoring of productive parameters such as feed conversion and mortality rates.
- Risk management and contingency plans to maintain business viability.
4. Economic and Social Impact
- Ensure food security, with accessible and quality proteins.
- Generate sustainable employment in production, distribution, and marketing.
The conflict over the Jurjen poultry farm reflects the tension between productive activity and the quality of life of communities. Solving the problem requires stricter controls, transparency in environmental management, and a real commitment to biosecurity and animal welfare.
