Letter to Tom Vilsack, Secretary of the USDA - Ayotte Urges USDA to Designate Drought Disaster for NH

Letter

Dear Secretary Vilsack:

I write in support of the State of New Hampshire's request for a Secretarial Drought Disaster Designation as a result of the ongoing drought being experienced in Rockingham, Strafford, and Grafton counties.

I understand that the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA's) Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Emergency Board for New Hampshire recently voted to move forward with pursuing a drought disaster designation for Rockingham, Strafford, and Grafton counties. According to the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES), as of August 4, 2016, three of the state's five "Drought Management Areas" were identified with a recommended drought status of "Severe", and NHDES has suggested that the drought is likely to continue into the fall season. Additionally, NHDES is encouraging residents in affected regions to conserve water resources.

A drought disaster designation will help provide vital support for our local farmers, who work hard to provide nutritious food and products for families across our state, region, and nation. New Hampshire's farming operations play an important role in maintaining our economy and are paramount to our state's rural heritage. I urge you to swiftly grant the State of New Hampshire's request for a drought disaster designation to help ensure the survival of these important local businesses and the jobs they support.

I appreciate your attention to this important matter. I look forward to your timely response.

Source