Layoffs at Pilgrim's Pride

ATHENS - Georgia poultry farmers are waiting to see whether they will have any chickens to raise at the end of the year.

Chicken producers are reeling from last summer's spike in corn prices up to $7.50 a bushel.

The University of Georgia Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development says record prices for diesel fuel aren't helping and consumers aren't eating out as much.

As a result, many producers are cutting back.

Pilgrim's Pride, out of Pittsburg, Texas, will end nightshift chicken production in Athens starting Feb. 9, resulting in the layoff of nearly 100 workers. The company is also cutting ties with ten percent of its Georgia chicken producers.

Pilgrim's Pride filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection December 1.