County Executive Statement on Drought Disaster Declaration

July 25, 2012
Casey Slaughter Becker, Office of the County Executive 608.267.8823 or cell, 608.843.8856
County Executive

 

Dane County Executive Joe Parisi issued the following statement in response to the USDA’s drought disaster declaration for Dane County.

 

“I’m thankful to USDA Secretary Vilsack for making this important declaration.  Despite our recent rainfall, our drought continues, and has caused irreversible damage to our farm families that will be felt for years to come.

 

“Two weeks ago, in both my communication to Governor Walker asking him to expedite the state’s request for a disaster declaration, and in my own personal communication with Secretary Vilsack, I expressed the need our farmers have for the emergency assistance this disaster declaration now provides.

 

“As a result of this disaster declaration, I encourage our farmers to continue working with their insurance agents, Dane County’s UW-Extension agents, and our local U.S. Farm Service Agency to access assistance.

 

“Dane County’s agriculture industry is a vital part of our economy and our shared history.  My heart goes out to our farm families and those who have been affected by this continued drought.”
 

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Farmers in need of assistance can contact Dane County UW-Extension at 608.224.3716, the U.S. Farm Service Agency at 608.224.3716, or go online for the latest drought information at http://fyi.uwex.edu/drought2012/.