The Minnesota Board of Animal Health's Quarterly Board Meeting on September 11, 2025, highlighted significant staffing changes and a strategic office relocation. The board reported a decrease in veterinary staff, with three Veterinary Medical Officers (VMOs) and one Animal Health Technician (AHT) now missing due to resignations, including the early retirement of long-serving veterinarian Dr. Karina Berger. This loss has raised concerns about maintaining adequate veterinary services in the state.

In addition to staffing issues, the board announced its recent move from South Saint Paul to a new office at 250 Marquette Avenue in Minneapolis. The relocation aims to enhance collaboration with partners in the area, although the decision's rationale remains unclear to some board members.

During the meeting, discussions also centered on the allocation of federal funding for disease response initiatives. The board emphasized that the funding is not commodity-specific but rather focused on emergency responses across various sectors, including swine and poultry. Members expressed the need to identify specific projects that address critical pain points within the agency and the agricultural community.

The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration on grant proposals to ensure that Minnesota can effectively utilize available resources for disease response efforts. As the board navigates these challenges, the focus remains on maintaining animal health and supporting the state's agricultural industry.