Letter to Tom Vilsack, Secretary, United States Department of Agriculture - Crop Losses

Letter

On September 15, 2016, Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker wrote requesting a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretarial Disaster Designation to help farmers in Ashland, Bayfield and Iron counties that suffered crop losses as a result of heavy rains and flooding in July.[1] These three counties lost at least 30 percent of their alfalfa, barley, corn, oat, and wheat crops.[2] We write to respectfully ask that you promptly consider Governor Walker's request so the affected producers may obtain relief as soon as possible.

Unusually heavy and prolonged rainfall on July 11 through July 12, 2016 led to flooding, followed by recurring rain through July 21, 2016. This resulted in many fields remaining underwater or oversaturated for an extended period of time, killing crops or dramatically reducing yields.[3] By declaring these counties disaster areas, farmers in the impacted counties will be eligible for a variety of federal assistance programs. This financial assistance is necessary to ensure that agricultural operations and family farmers in Wisconsin are able to manage these severe losses.

Thank you for your prompt consideration of this request. If you would like more information, please feel free to contact my office. I look forward to working with you on this important issue.

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