Yesterday, the USDA is accepting applications for emergency assistance to dairy farmers affected by highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). This expanded program offers financial aid to producers who had to remove cattle from commercial milking due to H5N1 avian influenza infections.
Minnesota is one of 12 states impacted, with six confirmed H5N1 detections in dairy herds across Benton, Kandiyohi, Lincoln, Morrison, and Sibley counties. Dairy farmers experiencing milk losses can now apply for this vital support.