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USDA Announces Aid Rates for Farmer Bridge Assistance Program
agriculture5.81 min read

USDA Announces Aid Rates for Farmer Bridge Assistance Program

11 days agoSource: AgWeb
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USDA Reveals Aid Details for Farmers Under Bridge Assistance Program
agriculture
2.495 min11 days ago

USDA Reveals Aid Details for Farmers Under Bridge Assistance Program

The USDA announced the next phase of the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program, providing $12 billion in payments to American farmers in 2026, with $11 billion as one-time payments based on 2025 crop data, to support farmers amid economic challenges. Payments vary by commodity, and the program aims to offer relief and stability for farmers planning for the upcoming planting season.

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Avian Flu Drives Egg Shortage and Price Surge Ahead of Holidays

Originally Published 1 year ago — by Gizmodo

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Source: Gizmodo

The U.S. is experiencing an egg shortage in some areas due to bird flu outbreaks affecting poultry, with 10 million birds impacted recently. While the overall egg supply remains stable, localized shortages and increased prices are reported in cities like Denver, Miami, and New York. The American Egg Board acknowledges the issue but expects shortages to be temporary as egg farmers replenish stocks. Egg prices have decreased from earlier highs, and the situation is being closely monitored as avian influenza continues to spread.

Rising Concerns Over Mutating Bird Flu in Canada

Originally Published 1 year ago — by Abbotsford News

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Source: Abbotsford News

The avian flu outbreak in British Columbia's Fraser Valley has severely impacted local poultry farmers, with nearly 50 flocks infected and millions of birds culled. Farmers like Mark Siemens and Derek Janzen are facing emotional and financial challenges as they work to sanitize their farms and prevent further infections. The outbreak, exacerbated by migratory birds, has led to heightened biosecurity measures and significant emotional tolls on farmers, many of whom run family operations. Despite the setbacks, farmers remain resilient, with hopes of rebuilding their flocks in the coming months.

B.C. Farmers Reeling from Avian Flu Impact

Originally Published 1 year ago — by CTV News

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Source: CTV News

B.C. farmers, including Mark Siemens, are devastated by an avian flu outbreak that led to the euthanization of his entire 45,000-bird flock. The highly pathogenic H5N1 strain has affected multiple farms, with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) overseeing containment and disinfection efforts. Despite the loss of millions of birds, poultry supply and prices remain stable due to unaffected farms and resources from other provinces. Farmers are implementing strict biosecurity measures to prevent further spread, while Siemens hopes to resume operations within a year.

Bird Flu Outbreak Claims Cows in Five US States

Originally Published 1 year ago — by Yahoo! Voices

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Source: Yahoo! Voices

Dairy cows infected with avian flu have died or been culled in five U.S. states, raising concerns about the economic impact on the farm belt. While most cows recover, some suffer from secondary infections or reduced milk production, leading farmers to slaughter them. The USDA reports that avian flu has affected over 80 herds across 10 states since late March.

Brazil Introduces $4M Supercow with Double the Meat

Originally Published 1 year ago — by CBS News

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Source: CBS News

Brazil has unveiled Viatina-19 FIV Mara Movéis, a $4 million supercow that is twice as heavy as an average cow of her breed and the most expensive cow ever sold at auction. This genetically superior cow represents Brazil's ambitions to dominate the global beef market despite environmental concerns. Viatina-19's exceptional muscle growth, fertility, and genetic traits make her highly valuable for breeding, although her high-maintenance needs limit her large-scale commercial viability. The Brazilian government continues to push for new export markets while addressing the environmental impact of cattle farming.

"Meet the World's Priciest Cow: Brazil's Beef Revolution"

Originally Published 1 year ago — by Yahoo! Voices

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Source: Yahoo! Voices

Viatina-19 FIV Mara Movéis, the world's most expensive cow at $4 million, symbolizes Brazil's ambition to dominate the global beef market. This elite Nelore cow, known for her rapid muscle gain and fertility, is part of a broader strategy to enhance cattle genetics and boost beef exports. Despite environmental concerns over beef production's impact on climate change, Brazil continues to push for new markets, leveraging advanced breeding techniques and high-profile auctions to promote its cattle industry.

"Meet the World's Priciest Cow: Brazil's Beef Revolution"

Originally Published 1 year ago — by Yahoo Finance

Featured image for "Meet the World's Priciest Cow: Brazil's Beef Revolution"
Source: Yahoo Finance

Viatina-19 FIV Mara Movéis, the world's most expensive cow at $4 million, symbolizes Brazil's ambitions to dominate the global beef market. This elite Nelore breed cow, known for her rapid muscle gain and fertility, is part of a broader strategy to enhance cattle genetics and boost beef exports. Despite environmental concerns over beef production's impact on greenhouse gases and deforestation, Brazil continues to push for new markets, leveraging advanced breeding techniques and high-profile auctions to promote its cattle industry.

Bird Flu Forces Iowa Farmers to Cull 4.2 Million Chickens

Originally Published 1 year ago — by Jamaica Gleaner

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Source: Jamaica Gleaner

More than 4.2 million chickens in Iowa will be culled after a highly pathogenic bird flu was detected at a large egg farm, adding to a yearslong outbreak that has now affected dairy cattle as well. Since 2022, 92.34 million birds have been killed due to the virus, which has also led to three human cases in the U.S. Health officials maintain that the risk to the public remains low and that beef remains safe to eat.

US Approves Bulk Milk Testing for Bird Flu in Cattle Transport

Originally Published 1 year ago — by AOL

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Source: AOL

The USDA has introduced a pilot program allowing bulk milk testing for bird flu in dairy cows before interstate transport, aiming to ease the burden of individual cow testing and reduce virus spread. While the program could help mitigate risks and protect the milk supply, some veterinarians warn that bulk testing may not be sufficient to confirm herds are virus-free. The program requires farms to test negative for three consecutive weeks using bulk tank samples to move cattle without additional testing, with ongoing weekly submissions to maintain status.