Dear Neighbors,
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is hosting a webinar on Friday to answer questions about expanding local meat and poultry processing markets in Minnesota and to discuss how we can adapt Minnesota's meat and poultry supply chain in response to the current pandemic. Topics of discussion will include the MDA's inspection requirements, grant opportunities, and marketing assistance programs.
Click here to register: MDA Event: ABC'S of Small Meat Processing
Several local farmers have reached out to me about aid that may be available to them as they deal with the closure of meat processing plants across that state and Midwest.
You can find useful information and fact sheets at these two sites:
https://www.farmers.gov/coronavirus (USDA)
https://agriculture.house.gov/covid19/ (U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture)
I anticipate that additional information will be available soon and will plan to share once it is confirmed. What I do know, is that USDA is planning for an expedited rulemaking process so I am hopeful that there will be more guidance very soon.
The key takeaway is that the process is still being developed and implemented, but hopefully money will begin going to producers by the end of the month.
Please continue to reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-4229 or via email at rep.glenn.gruenhagen@house.mn.
Have a great day,
Glenn