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Friday, June 28, 2024

USDA to Accept Expanded ELA Program Applications

The USDA will begin accepting applications on Monday, July 1, for its updated Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP). The goal is to provide financial assistance to eligible dairy producers who incur milk losses due to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza infection in their dairy herds. The Farm Service Agency 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 tests must be confirmed through the National Veterinary Service Laboratories. “USDA remains committed to working with producers, state veterinarians, animal health professionals, and federal partners as we continue to detect the presence of H5N1 in dairy herds and take additional measures to contain the disease spread,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “We’re committed to providing the support needed to help producers recover.”