Wednesday, Jul 20 2011 3:26PM
The USDA announced aid and other resources are available to many farmers and ranchers whose crops or land have been affected by harsh weather.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently released a statement reassuring farmers and ranchers whose businesses and livelihoods have been affected by extreme weather this year that there are many resources that can help.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack recently toured areas of Iowa and Nebraska where extensive flooding occurred, as well as parts of Arizona and New Mexico where droughts have affected many farms. He stated the USDA intends to provide help to those in need.
"America's farmers and rural communities are vitally important to our nation's economy and our values, and my heart goes out to all who are facing hardships because of severe weather and natural disasters," Vilsack said.
The USDA added that its Risk Management Agency can help farmers, ranchers and migrant workers who have been affected by harsh weather through insurance policies and other resources, including the Supplemental Revenue Assistance Program and the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program.
As of July 12, the U.S. Drought Monitor shows more than half of New Mexico is experiencing "exceptional" drought conditions.