Rogers, Delegation Seek Additional Drought Aid For Farmers

Press Release

Rogers, Delegation Seek Additional Drought Aid for Farmers

Alabama farmers are suffering through historic drought conditions and need additional Federal assistance immediately, Congressman Mike Rogers and the Alabama Congressional delegation said this week in a letter to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Mike Johanns.

The letter, signed by the entire Alabama Congressional Delegation, asked USDA to release "Section 32" funds to help provide immediate relief for producers and farmers in Alabama who have been devastated by this year's drought.

"This drought has been one of the worst in the history of Alabama. Despite some recent rains, many of our farmers are looking at a near total loss this year. Given agriculture's importance to our economy, it is critical the Federal government does everything it can immediately to help support our farmers during this incredibly difficult time," Rogers said.

‘Preliminary production estimates from the 2007 crop year underscore the devastating toll the current drought is have on Alabama's farmers and ranchers. Approximately 30% to 50% of cotton crop and 50% of peanut crop is believed to be total loss…..75% of the corn crop has been lost…..60% to 90% loss of pine seedlings, at a cost of $30 million to the industry,' the letter said.

"The good news is these funds are available immediately," Rogers added. "The Agriculture Secretary has the authority to redirect this aid to our farmers, and I hope he chooses to do so soon."

Rogers serves on the Homeland Security Committee in Congress, as well as on the Armed Services Committee and the Committee on Agriculture.

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