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A Push to Diversify Meat Processing in Minnesota Processing plant closures due to coronavirus forced farmers to euthanize hundreds of thousands of animals. Now, many of the biggest players in Minnesota agriculture are debating how to strengthen the food system.
When several large pork processing plants shuttered last spring because workers got sick with Covid-19, it sent many who raise livestock into a panic.
“Farmers would call me and say: ‘My pigs are too big, I have nothing to do with them,’” Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen said at a hearing before the Minnesota House Agriculture Finance and Policy Committee.
Crucial ag issues await Minnesota lawmakers
A handful of important ag priorities are in the mix as Minnesota legislators went back to work virtually on Jan. 5 to piece together a two-year state budget. 5:30 am, Jan. 12, 2021 ×
A security fence is in place around the Minnesota State Capitol building. Photographed on Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2020. The fence was installed during the civil unrest that followed the killing of George Floyd. (John Autey / St. Paul Pioneer Press)
ST. PAUL, Minn. Minnesota lawmakers embarked on a legislative session unlike any other Jan. 5, with many key agricultural issues to be considered in the state. Virtual floor sessions and committee hearings will prevent lawmakers and constituents from connecting face-to-face at least to start the year.
For Minnesota farmer (and recovering alcoholic), holiday season is fraught with potential for relapse
Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day, and all the days in between should be filled with joy and family togetherness. But the holiday season can also be one of the most stressful times of the year, especially for a recovering substance abuse addict.
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Vicki Gerdes | ×
Bryan and Sarah Klabunde have a blended family of five children, including older twins Avery and Lauren, 13; younger twins Sophia and Eli, 12; and youngest son Nolan, 6 with a sixth child, the first that the couple will have together, set to be born later this month. (Submitted photo)
For Waubun farmer (and recovering alcoholic) Bryan Klabunde, holiday season is fraught with potential for relapse
Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day, and all the days in between should be filled with joy and family togetherness. But the holiday season can also be one of the most stressful times of the year, especially for a recovering substance abuse addict. 2:42 pm, Dec. 16, 2020 ×
Bryan and Sarah Klabunde have a blended family of five children, including older twins Avery and Lauren, 13; younger twins Sophia and Eli, 12; and youngest son Nolan, 6 with a sixth child, the first that the couple will have together, set to be born later this month. (Submitted photo)