USDA designates 24 Wisconsin counties natural disaster areas

MADISON (WITI) -- Governor Scott Walker thanked United State Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsak Thursday, July 4th for designating 24 Wisconsin counties as natural disaster areas.  Governor Walker wrote a letter on June 25, 2013 requesting the designation because of the crop loss resulting from excessive rain and snow.

“We appreciate the quick response to the conditions affecting Wisconsin farmers,” said Governor Walker.  “A freezing, thawing, and refreezing cycle, coupled with excessive rain and snow, resulted in crop losses ranging from 30 to 70 percent in some areas.  We appreciate the continued attention and assistance to help our farmers deal with the crop losses.”

Multiple thaws and refreezes, as well as excessive rain and snow, between January 1, 2013 and May 21, 2013 resulted in crop loss in excess of 30 percent in the following counties: Brown, Buffalo, Calumet, Chippewa, Clark, Dodge, Eau Claire, Fond du Lac, Green Lake, Kewaunee, Langlade, Lincoln, Manitowoc, Marathon, Marinette, Oconto, Outagamie, Ozaukee, Pierce, Shawano, Sheboygan, Trempealeau, Waupaca, and Washington.

More information regarding drought resources is also available through Ready Wisconsin, which can be accessed by clicking here.

Farmers in need of feed for their livestock or with feed to sell to farmers in need are encouraged to use the Farmer to Farmer program provided by UW Extension here.

The letter from the USDA is attached and you can access more information from the USDA about the declaration here.