Wilmar, Minnesota (trfnews.i234.me) — U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith are in Wilmar today, meeting with poultry producers as Minnesota continues to grapple with the devastating effects of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
The senators are visiting a turkey barn impacted by the virus, where they are discussing the USDA’s newly rolled-out strategy, ongoing biosecurity challenges, and the need for financial relief for struggling farmers.
Minnesota’s poultry industry has been hit particularly hard, with more than 6.6 million birds lost due to avian influenza outbreaks in commercial turkey operations across the state.
The visit underscores growing concerns within the agricultural community, as producers work with federal and state officials to control the spread and recover from economic losses.
We’ll continue to follow this story as updates from the senators’ visit become available.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
Did you know?
- Minnesota ranks as the top turkey-producing state in the U.S.
- Avian influenza outbreaks can lead to entire flocks being culled to prevent further spread.
- The USDA has recently ramped up funding for biosecurity programs to combat HPAI.