More drought relief needed in Oklahoma

Oklahoma State Sen. Jeff Rabon recently asked the U.S. Congress to make available additional funding for emergency drought relief needed by Oklahoma farmers and ranchers after Gov. Brad Henry’s request for disaster designation for all 77 counties was granted by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns.

The declaration makes Oklahoma farmers and producers eligible for low-interest loans through the USDA Farm Services Agency., Yet according to Rabon, additional relief is needed.

“In prior years, Livestock Assistance Payments have been made available to producers,” said Rabon, D-Hugo, in a news release.

“Given that this drought is the worst Oklahoma has seen in many years, Congress needs to step forward to help secure the additional funding to assist farmers and ranchers, and authorize these payments,” he said.

Rabon explained that drought conditions have an effect not only on crops produced, but they also limit grazing lands for livestock.

“Current estimates suggest the Oklahoma wheat crop could be the smallest in 50 years,” Rabon said.

“Additionally, grazing lands have been diminished, forcing ranchers to purchase additional hay and feed in months they normally would not. Congress needs to be made aware of the severity of the conditions and provide the funding necessary to help our producers through this drought,” he said.

Under the Agricultural Assistance Act of 2003, Livestock Assistance Payments may be made available to producers who have suffered grazing losses due to drought conditions.

Rabon urged members of Oklahoma’s Congressional delegation to demand that Livestock Assistance Payments be made available to Oklahoma producers.

Topics Agribusiness Oklahoma