Governor Walz Meets with President Biden, Asks for Continued Partnership in Confronting Drought, Wildfires

Press Release

Governor Tim Walz today met with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris to discuss the ongoing drought, extreme heat, and wildfires. Governor Walz asked for federal action to recognize the extreme drought conditions and increase Minnesota livestock producers' access to lands for forage.

"Wildfires are causing the worst air quality on record in Minnesota, just as we're heading into our warmest and driest month. Climate change is real, it's having a direct impact on Minnesotans' lives, and it requires all of us to work together," said Governor Walz. "I'm grateful to President Biden for convening this conversation to help ensure we're working together at all levels of government to address the impacts of the drought -- from wildfires to dry fields and pastures."

Over the past month, Governor Walz has been meeting with farmers and ranchers to see the impact of the drought firsthand. On Wednesday, the Governor waived trucking regulations for the transportation of forage for livestock. The Rural Finance Authority Board has made zero-interest loans available immediately for Minnesota farmers whose operations are suffering from the drought, and the Department of Natural Resources has convened the State Drought Task Force. The Governor continues to work with federal partners to create flexibility to expand access to forage for livestock.

With Thursday's update to the U.S. Drought Monitor, more than 75% of Minnesota has reached at least a severe drought intensity and 22% is experiencing extreme drought. A United States Department of Agriculture Secretarial disaster declaration is active in 35 Minnesota counties.

A video of the Governor's comments is available here .

Source