The virus has affected nearly 100 farms in more than a dozen
states, requiring the depopulation of about 11 million birds. It is spread by
migratory birds. In Minnesota, nearly all of the 54 impacted farms are located
within a few hundred yards of a lake, the letter noted.
The four sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack,
suggesting he be empowered to dip into the Commodity Credit Corp. funds.
The letter was sent by two Republicans - Agriculture
Committee chairmen Senator Pat Roberts from Kansas and House of Representatives
member K. Michael Conaway from Texas – and two Democrats – Senator Debbie
Stabenow from Michigan and House of Representatives member Collin Peterson from
Minnesota where the governor has declared a state of emergency and has called
out the national guard.
