Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan have announced additional support that is going to farmers and food producers impacted by COVID-19.
 
 According to state officials, the $7.7 million plan, funded through the federal CARES Act, will support those in the agricultural business, who are struggling due to market disruptions and need to purchase equipment and supplies necessary during the pandemic.
 
 Gov. Walz, who grew up on a family farm, says he stands with the state’s farmers and is proud to allocate the much-needed support. He also called their work -- feeding Minnesotans and the nation during the challenging time  -- remarkable. 
 
 Both Walz and Lt. Gov. Flanagan visited south Minnesota recently to meet with farmers and industry leaders to hear how they’ve been impacted by the pandemic.
 
 Flanagan says agriculture is the backbone of the state’s economy, and like many other industries, has undergone dramatic operational changes during the pandemic. 
 
 A large chunk of the funding, $5.75 million dollars, is going to turkey and pork producers who have had market disruptions and associated costs due to COVID-19. Another $1 million dollars will be available to those looking to expand or open a meat processing facility.
 
 Additionally, $500,000 will be going to local food systems and $250,000 will be provided for farm business management scholarships. 
 
 I’m Cole Premo.