MPPA Statement on Implementation of Defense Production Act

Mankato, Minn. – President Trump signed an executive order yesterday, April 29 that invoked the Defense Production Act (DPA) to send much-needed federal support to the U.S. pork supply chain. The President’s action will allow the federal government to prioritize the continuity of pork processing plant operation, an issue for Minnesota farmers who have seen three of the five primary packing plants where they market animals shut down in recent weeks. The following statement is from David Mensink, a pig farmer from Preston, Minnesota, and president of the Minnesota Pork Producers Association:

“We are grateful for the support from the local, state, and federal government. We need clear, consistent guidelines and all available resources to address the difficult situation. We thank President Trump for taking the next step to help keep packing plants open and re-open those that have shut down.

“Farmers are experiencing an unparalleled drop in the value of their animals and are facing serious financial challenges. Without immediate relief, including expanded financial aid without payment limitations, multi-generational family farms will struggle to survive.

“While getting packing plants back online is critical, the heartbreaking reality is millions of pigs will not be able to enter the food supply. As farmers, that goes against everything we do to care for our animals and provide food for people. We need a strong, coordinated effort between industry and government authorities to depopulate pigs in a safe and ethical way.”

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The Minnesota Pork Producers Association is recognized as highly committed to continued development of a strong industry image that protects the best interests of members and impacts public policy while producing both state and national industry leaders.