FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
Contact: Spence Jackson, (573)751-0290
USDA Approves Blunt’s Request for Disaster Relief for Missouri Farmers
JEFFERSON CITY—Gov. Matt Blunt today announced that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved his request to declare 112 of Missouri’s 114 counties as disaster areas in response to the prolonged drought that has ravaged farms.
The disaster declaration by the USDA will make farmers eligible for low-interest emergency loans from the Farm Service Agency (FSA). The only counties not included in the drought declaration are Atchison and Holt in Northwest Missouri however both are considered to be contiguous counties by the USDA and could receive financial assistance if future eligibility requirements are met.
Blunt toured the state early in the month view damage inflicted by the drought to farms throughout Missouri. Blunt acted quickly to secure the state analysis required before seeking the federal aid and is pleased with USDA’s announcement.
"I want to thank Sec. Johann’s for responding so quickly to Missouri’s request for assistance," Blunt said. "It is reassuring to know the Bush administration values the contributions Missouri’s farm families make to both our state and national economies and has taken decisive action to make this financial assistance available in a time of great need."