USDA to Begin Accepting Applications for Expanded Emergency Livestock Assistance Program to Help Dairy Producers Offset Milk Loss Due to H5N1

WASHINGTON, June 27, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will begin accepting applications starting on Monday, July 1 through its updated Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-raised Fish Program (ELAP) to provide financial assistance to eligible dairy producers who incur milk losses due to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, also known as H5N1infection in their dairy herds. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) expanded ELAP through the rule-making process to assist with a portion of financial losses resulting from reduced milk production when cattle are removed from commercial milking in dairy herds having a confirmed positive H5N1 test. Positive test results must be confirmed through the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL).

Sonoma County Family Farmers Alliance

Today, Sonoma County Family Farmers are under attack. A ballot measure is being proposed by an animal extremist group from Berkeley, CA, aimed to eliminate Sonoma County’s diverse animal agriculture production. If passed, the ballot measure could put multi-generational farming families out of business and as a result, the cost of dairy products, eggs, and poultry will increase significantly. Further, the proposed ballot measure will increase our greenhouse gas emissions since these products will have to be imported from other parts of our state, country or even other countries. The measure will cost taxpayers millions.

Congratulations to multiple WODPA stakeholders that have recently received grants!!

AMS-15 Organic Exemption Request From

California Producers:

California Department of Food and Agriculture Federal Organic Certification & State Cost Share Application