Minnesota certified bovine Tuberculosis-free

Today, Governor Mark Dayton, along with Senator Rod Skoe, DFL-Clearbrook, announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved Minnesota’s application for statewide bovine Tuberculosis (TB) Free status. Since 2005, officials have found evidence of bovine Tuberculosis in the state’s cattle and deer populations. Over 800,000 tests were run on cattle, bison, and deer since the outbreak first occurred.

In 2008, Sen. Rod Skoe authored and successfully passed legislation that created a TB management zone, cost- sharing assistance for fencing, resources for herd buyouts, a property tax credit and an income tax credit to partially offset the cost to farmers of having their herds tested for TB. “This is very good news for our livestock industry, our state’s agriculture industry, and for all of Minnesota” said Sen. Skoe.

“This story could have had a much different ending had it not been for a lot of hard work by the state as well as farmers,” added Sen. Skoe. “This is a great example that demonstrates when government works together on difficult issues positive results can be achieved for our citizens”.

While Minnesota has been declared to be free of bovine TB in cattle, the Department of Natural Resources will continue to test the state’s deer population until a similar certification is made.