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The nation’s largest dairy states are monitoring reports of avian influenza in dairy cattle in Texas and Kansas. Wisconsin State Veterinarian Dr. Darlene Konkle notes that pasteurization kills viruses or bacteria in milk, so it’s safe to drink. Cattle infected with bird flu typically recover, and the herd does not have to be de-populated. Dr. Konkle is reminding dairy producers to report any illnesses in cattle. Wisconsin State Veterinarian Dr. Darlene Konkle says milk from sick cattle does not go

Worker’s compensation will increase in Wisconsin. Governor Tony Evers approved the bill, which increases weekly permanent partial disability rate from 430-dollars to 438 for any injuries for this year. In 2025, it will increase another eight dollars. Other alterations include extending the statute of limitations and gender neutral language in marriage-related statutes. The bill was initially approved by the Worker’s Compensation Advisory Council, which is made up of both employee and employer representatives and insurer reps.   

Eau Claire public pools are recovering from lifeguard shortages following the COVID-19 pandemic. The local Parks and Recreation department says it is fully staffed and prepared for the swimming season. Recreation Supervisor Christine Mohr says some of the shortage was due to expired licenses that weren’t renewed by potential workers and a lack of ability to train new lifeguards with pandemic restrictions. Mohr says pools should be open without restricted hours, and are scheduled to open on June sixth.

Some emergency response team members will now be allowed to carry firearms in Wisconsin. Governor Tony Evers signed the bill, which allows tactical emergency medical service members, to carry a gun in areas that wouldn’t otherwise allow them. Evers says EMS personnel respond to dangerous scenarios often, and the new law will ensure they can do their job even in high-risk situations.

Construction of Fairfax Street, from S. Hastings Way to Spooner Avenue, is tentatively scheduled to begin on April 1, 2024. Construction will consist of removal of the existing concrete pavement, removal of concrete curb and gutter, removal of concrete driveway approaches, removal of concrete sidewalk, storm sewer, sanitary sewer and services, water main and services, grading, graveling, concrete curb and gutter, concrete driveway approaches, concrete sidewalk, concrete multi-use trail, concrete pavement, pavement markings, and lawn restoration. A detour route for

The rain and snow has meant rising waters. The Chippewa River gauge at Grand Avenue read 760 feet, which is approximately four feet below the Action Stage. With recent snow and rain, and a forecast that includes a variety of additional precipitation, river levels are expected to rise and enter the Action Stage within the city over the next several days. When the Action Stage is reached, for the safety of residents, the following areas will be closed: • Chippewa

The Chippewa Falls YMCA, in association with the Chippewa Health Improvement Partnership (CHIP), will be hosting a Farmers Market at the Chippewa Falls YMCA this summer and are seeking vendors to sell local goods. “We are excited to partner, once again, with the YMCA in offering the Farmers Market in Chippewa Falls,” said Sandy Tarter, Extension FoodWIse Coordinator and CHIP-Chronic Disease Prevention Action Team Co-Chair. “This will provide another opportunity for residents to purchase fresh, local food along with supporting

After a national search, Dr. Mary Hoffman has been named permanent associate vice chancellor for academic affairs at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire after nearly four years in the interim position. Hoffman, who was named interim associate vice chancellor and interim dean of graduate studies in summer 2020, began the permanent vice chancellor position on March 25 after a national search.  CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL STORY

“The unique design draws attention and provides a fun way to engage in financial education that is relevant to their current stage of life.” Royal Credit Union (Royal) is a recipient of a Wisconsin Governor’s Financial Literacy Award presented by Gov. Tony Evers on February 29th, 2024. The Wisconsin Governor’s Financial Literacy Award is annually presented to individuals and organizations that have provided exceptional financial education with an innovative and inclusive approach. Royal received this award in recognition of Go

Homeowners with private wells can get their water tested for nitrate, bacteria, and more at a discounted price at the Health Department in early April. To get prepared, pick up your water sample kit at the department now – homeowners who return their water sample between Monday, April 1 and Thursday, April 11 will get a discount on certain tests. Water testing is available to homeowners with private wells from all counties; you don’t need to live in Eau Claire County to