RFA Supports Farms with Emergency Loans

By Scout Nelson

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture's Rural Finance Authority (RFA) has declared an emergency in response to outbreaks of three significant animal diseases: avian Metapneumovirus (aMPV), highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), and the H5N1 flu virus.

This declaration activates the availability of Disaster Recovery Loans at zero interest for affected Minnesota farmers from February 12, 2025, to February 12, 2026.

Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen emphasized the importance of this declaration for the agricultural community, encouraging farmers who have suffered livestock losses to take advantage of these supportive measures.

"The RFA Board’s declaration is an important step in helping Minnesota farmers affected by these three animal health diseases,” Petersen stated.

The diseases in question pose severe threats to livestock. aMPV, a highly infectious respiratory condition in poultry, has led to high mortality rates due to its immunosuppressive effects, which make birds susceptible to secondary infections. Since April 2024, Minnesota has confirmed 871 cases of aMPV, though actual numbers might be higher.

HPAI, affecting both domestic and wild birds, has devastated poultry populations across Minnesota since its first detection in March 2022. To date, approximately 9.1 million domestic birds, predominantly turkeys, have been affected, with four new cases reported in 2025 alone.

The H5N1 virus, while primarily known for its impact on poultry, has also been identified in dairy cattle, though with less severe consequences. The first case in Minnesota was reported in June 2024, following its detection in a Texas dairy in March 2024.

The Disaster Recovery Loan Program is designed to aid farmers in covering expenses not typically covered by insurance. This includes replacing livestock, making necessary building improvements, or compensating for lost revenue due to these diseases. Farmers interested in these loans are advised to coordinate with local lenders to apply through the RFA.

This initiative underscores the Rural Finance Authority's commitment to supporting Minnesota's agricultural sector through challenging times, reinforcing its mission to develop and protect farm resources through strategic financial assistance.

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