Agriculture and forestry are critical to Virginia’s economy, generating more than $79 billion annually and create responsible for more than 501,000 jobs throughout the Commonwealth.  From tomato growers on the Eastern Shore, to peanut and cotton growers in Southside, to dairymen in the Shenandoah Valley, ensuring the viability of these industries is vital to our entire state.

When faced with severe drought, Virginia’s farmers and livestock producers are often impacted financially and need federal assistance to maintain their livelihood.  During my time in the U.S. Senate, I have routinely worked with the Secretary of Agriculture to successfully expedite the disaster declarations required to help our local farming communities.

In order for farmers to receive federal drought assistance, the Secretary of Agriculture must designate a county or state as an agricultural disaster area. Under the federal disaster designation, those who lose 30% of their farm income are eligible to be considered for up to $500,000 in low-interest loans from the U.S. Farm Service Agency. The Agency individually considers each application based on the extent of loss and other eligibility requirements.  I was pleased to support the inclusion of permanent disaster relief as part of the 2008 Farm Bill.

I have deep roots in Southwest Virginia and I appreciate the challenges facing farms today. I will continue to work diligently to address the needs of Virginia farmers who are affected by severe drought in the future.