U.S. Congressman Bruce Westerman has sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Thomas Vilsack supporting Governor Asa Hutchinson’s request for a Secretarial Disaster Declaration for the State of Arkansas.
A Secretarial Disaster Declaration would allow farmers, ranchers, foresters, and producers to apply for Emergency Farm Loans.
Westerman says that as Americans struggle with inflation and a potential food crisis, the federal government must take any threat to the agriculture industry incredibly seriously.
Westerman cited current conditions in Arkansas as a reason for the request.
“It is no secret to Arkansans that this summer has been an unusually dry season, resulting in moderate to severe drought throughout the state,” said Westerman. “Some areas have not recorded rainfall for over a month, and the National Weather Service predicts the drought will persist for the foreseeable future.
These conditions are catastrophic for our farmers and producers. I have heard from many constituents who are suffering during this abnormal drought, especially poultry and cattle farmers who are struggling to provide for their animals. Some cattle farms have unfortunately reported resorting to reducing their herds. Any loss of production is detrimental not only to Arkansas, but also to the entire country who relies on the industry to keep us fed and clothed. Further, 53 of 75 counties in Arkansas are now under active burn bans to avoid forest fires.”
