Agriculture

As avian flu cases slow, farmers struggle with mental stress
New cases of avian influenza in Minnesota commercial flocks have slowed in recent weeks, suggesting the worst may be over. But the unpredictability of this year’s outbreak has caused a lot of mental strain for farmers, their families, veterinarians and others in the poultry industry.
Conspiracy theorists flock to bird flu, spreading falsehoods
While it doesn't pose a significant threat to humans, the outbreak is prompting a new wave of some of the same conspiracy theories that emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The plot to keep meatpacking plants open during COVID-19
Newly released documents reveal that the meatpacking industry’s callousness toward the health of its workers and its influence over the Trump administration were far greater than previously known.
Comic: One Sioux chef's attempt to reclaim Native American cuisine
When it comes to North American cuisine, Indigenous foods don't typically come to mind. Chef Sean Sherman is changing that by serving food that celebrates and preserves his ancestors' Lakota cooking.
Wet spring slows planting for many Minnesota farmers
Planting for most Minnesota crops is well behind average because of wet conditions and cold soil temperatures. Warmer weather over the past week is helping to dry fields, but widespread rains continue and in many parts of the state farmers are waiting as prime planting time slips past.
Biden sees bigger role for U.S. farms due to Ukraine war
President Joe Biden wants to put a spotlight on the spike in food prices from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The Democrat plans to travel on Wednesday to an Illinois farm to emphasize how U.S. agricultural exports can relieve the financial pressures being felt worldwide.
New Bemidji State degree draws on Indigenous practices to teach 21st century sustainability
BSU students can now earn a full degree in Indigenous Sustainability Studies that builds on traditional philosophies and practices while also studying the mainstream sustainability techniques.