Livestock producers have continued to struggle as meat processing plants temporarily close due to COVID-19 outbreaks among employees and market prices begin to heal from the COVID-19 outbreak. The Iowa Cattlemen Association says cattle producers could see losses of up to $477.05 per head in the coming months. Iowa Cattlemen Association Eastern Iowa Membership Coordinator Lane Eads has seen the impact of COVID-19 on cattle producers in Iowa and shares some ways for them to receive financial help, “I know there’s a couple programs through the SBA (Small Business Association). So our Paycheck Protection Program is one program that we’ve been heavily highlighting the last few weeks. I encourage individuals to reach out to their lenders and have those discussions. It’s just a financial opportunity. I know it’s always hard to ask for help, but sometimes you get to the point where you need some. There’s an EIDL (Emergency Injury Disaster Loan) program that’s available as well. Each of those have their own specific stipulations, some of which, individuals may not qualify for.” 

In order to provide technical and financial resources for livestock producers, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship announced the formation of the Resource Coordination Center. This program looks to help producers explore ways to harvest livestock and meet the protein needs of Iowans, as well as emotional decisions such as animal welfare euthanasia and disposal.