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August 1, 2007
TANNER ENCOURAGED BY DROUGHT
RELIEF FOR TENNESSEE FARMERS
WASHINGTON – Congressman John Tanner said a disaster declaration from the USDA will help Tennessee farmers struggling to deal with extreme drought and high heat.
Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns approved Governor Phil Bredesen’s request for the disaster designation in all 95 counties in Tennessee, which Tanner said will help farmers who need relief from the ongoing drought.
“This year, between freeze and drought, Tennessee farmers have seen some of the worst weather we’ve ever had to deal with,” Tanner said. “I am encouraged by this USDA designation of Tennessee as a primary natural disaster area, which will make Tennessee’s family farmers eligible for low-interest emergency loans through the Farm Service Agency.”
Tanner had joined nine other federal lawmakers from Tennessee supporting the governor’s request.
“According to the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), the five-month period of January through May 2007 was the driest such period in Tennessee in 118 years,” their July 12 letter said. “Many of our livestock producers have sold entire herds due to a lack of hay and watering sources. Additionally, specialty crop producers, who already experienced significant losses in the April freeze, are now suffering from the drought. Though the extent of the damage has not yet been determined, most farmers will need a full season to recover.”
U.S. Rep. John Tanner represents Tennessee’s 8th Congressional district in West and Middle Tennessee. He serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and as chairman of the U.S. delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly.
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Contact: Randy Ford, 202.225.4714
