FARIBAULT, Minn. -- Jennie-O Turkey Store has temporarily laid off 223 employees at its plan in Faribault, the result of the impact of highly pathogenic avian influenza.
According to a news release from Jennie-O, the avian flu outbreak has reduced the number of birds in the supply chain. The plan will move to a single processing shift for the foreseeable future, effective May 26, according to the release.
“This will be a temporary layoff, and our intent is to have everyone come back to work when bird numbers return to normal levels,” Randy L. Vergin, plant manager, said in the release. “We do not have an anticipated return to work date at this time but look forward to welcoming our team members back when production levels return to normal.”
The latest information from the Minnesota Board of Animal Health, 80 farms in 21 counties have been affected by the H5N2 avian influence virus, killing more than 5 million birds. It has affected both turkey and chicken farming operations in the state. Kandiyohi County, the home base of Jennie-O, has been hit the hardest by far, with 29 flocks affected. It has turned up in most counties in the area. Renville County reported its first case Monday.
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