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Cattle farmers affected by bird flu eligible for assistance funds

Cattle farmers affected by bird flu eligible for assistance funds


By Andi Anderson

Michigan is one of 12 states where the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) virus, also known as bird flu, has infected dairy cattle. The state has seen 26 infected herds, with a recent case discovered in Gratiot County.

Since the first infected cow was found in March, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has intensified testing and biosecurity measures to control the virus spread.

Nearly two months after the initial outbreak, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the expansion of its Emergency Livestock Assistance Program (ELAP).

This program provides emergency funding to livestock producers, including those with dairy cattle, honeybees, and farm-raised fish, affected by disease, adverse weather, or other disasters.

The funding aims to help farmers manage financial losses due to reduced milk production, a symptom of bird flu in cattle.

To qualify for assistance, dairy cattle must meet specific criteria:

Be part of a herd that tested positive for HPAI through the National Veterinary Services Laboratories.

Be removed from commercial milk production either 14 days before or 120 days after the test result.

Be currently lactating and maintained for commercial milk production.

Payment amounts will be calculated using a specific formula. Eligible cows must produce 50% of their normal production rate within seven days of returning to milking.

According to MDARD, the virus has affected 11 counties in Michigan, primarily in central regions. Precautions are still being taken in these areas.

James Averill, Associate Director of Michigan State University’s AgBioResearch centers, stated that the university's livestock farms, except for the horse farm, have been closed and are undergoing biosecurity measures. These measures must remain in effect for 60 days after an infection is found.

With the recent case in Gratiot County, biosecurity measures will continue into the fall semester, requiring students to adhere to them as well. Averill noted that these measures were minimal at the end of the spring semester but will be more stringent in the fall.

Cora Okkema, a dairy educator at the university, praised the state’s swift response and ongoing efforts to guide the industry. " From farm to table, the dairy industry and also the agriculture industry has acknowledged the presence of the disease and has been very transparent about that … and has remained diligent in protecting both human and animal health " she said.

Okkema encourages impacted farmers to apply for ELAP and contact their local USDA Farm Service Agency for support. "A drastic decrease in milk production affects a farmer’s bottom line. When this impacts a significant percentage of the herd, the farm’s economic viability becomes a concern," she explained.

Farmers dealing with bird flu can receive vital support to maintain their operations and manage the financial impact of this challenging situation.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-ahavelaar

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Categories: Michigan, Livestock, Dairy Cattle

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