Elected officials say efforts are underway to help poultry producers who lose their flocks both financially and through access to mental health support.
Russia and Ukraine produce roughly 14 percent of the world's wheat supply, according to the United Nations, and the war has resulted in soaring food prices and fears about food security globally.
The Minnesota Poultry Testing Lab is located in Kandiyohi County for a reason. It’s surrounded by chicken and turkey farms that help make Minnesota one of the top poultry producers in the nation.
The bill, which Gov. Tim Walz is expected to sign soon, will help pay for testing materials, equipment and personnel. Lawmakers are expected to field requests for more money as the flu spreads.
Minnesota animal health officials said Wednesday the latest outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza has now been found in 21 poultry flocks across 11 Minnesota counties. Most are commercial turkey operations.
Nearly 23 million birds have died as a highly pathogenic bird flu virus tears its way through farms and chicken yards. It has spread to at least 24 states in less than two months.
Despite drought conditions that affected much of Minnesota last year, farm profits improved for the second year in a row because of high prices for crops and livestock.
The Minnesota Board of Animal Health on Tuesday reported the latest outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza in the state is now affecting a total of 15 poultry flocks — up from seven last Friday.
When it comes to staying informed in Minnesota, our newsletters overdeliver. Sign-up now for headlines, breaking news, hometown stories, weather and much more. Delivered weekday mornings.