USDA allocates $1B to combat HPAI
Since the commencement of avian influenza outbreaks in early 2022, the USDA has allocated just over $1 billion to reimburse farmers for the loss of their flocks and to control the spread of the disease. The most substantial disbursement, amounting to $715 million, was distributed to producers, growers, and integrators as compensation for depopulated birds and eggs. An additional $183 million was utilized for the culling and disposal of affected flocks. The present costs associated with personnel, contractors, state agreements, and field expenses are estimated to be an additional $130 million.
Among the recipients of indemnities, Jennie-O Turkey Store, a subsidiary of Hormel Foods, emerged as the highest beneficiary, receiving $74.8 million, according to information obtained by California veterinarian Crystal Heath through a public records request. Other leading beneficiaries included Rembrandt Enterprises of Iowa, receiving $27.9 million; Sunrise Farms of Iowa, receiving $25.8 million; MG Waldbaum of Minnesota, receiving $25.2 million; and Tyson Foods of Arkansas, receiving $24.3 million.
We wholeheartedly endorse Professor Simon Shane's statement that preventive vaccination should be adopted in high-risk areas and for susceptible segments of the industry, including egg production and turkeys along the four U.S. flyways.
