Minnesota's Governor and and U.S. Senators speak with state agriculture officials about avian flu

(Minneapolis, MN) -- Several Minnesota legislators and officials are sharing and discussing the impacts the avian flu throughout the state. 

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and U.S Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith joined state agriculture officials to discuss impacts of the virus ripping through the state's poultry population. Bird producers spoke with officials to share their experiences and listen to the latest from those in the know.

Governor Walz says more than two million birds have been impacted by the outbreak of avian flu. State Veterinarian Beth Thompson says the virus came to Minnesota through wild waterfowl after their spring migration this year. Senator Klobuchar reiterated the impact on poultry producers, saying it impacts their livelihoods financially and personally. She says this is due to whole flocks needing to be culled in order to stop the spread of avian flu.