7.31.06 Gov. Henry Announces USDA Assistance Approved for Oklahoma Farmers, Ranchers

Oklahoma City – In response to a request by Gov. Brad Henry, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns has approved a Secretarial natural disaster designation for all 77 counties in Oklahoma. The designation arrives in the wake of drought, extreme heat and high winds that have plagued Oklahoma farmers and ranchers over the past two years.

The July 27 letter from Johanns to Gov. Henry notes that a review by the U.S. Department of Agriculture determined there were sufficient production losses to warrant the natural disaster designation.

Under the designation, Oklahoma producers are eligible to be considered for low-interest loans from the USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA).

The Governor, who requested the assistance June 6, said the designation is welcome news.

“Our hardworking farmers and ranchers have endured serious difficulties month after month as the result of an unforgiving drought and severe heat,” he said.

“What our farmers and ranchers need most of all is relief from the drought, but this disaster designation can at least alleviate some of the hardships they have faced.”

Farmers and ranchers interested in further information are asked to contact their local FSA offices.