April 20, 2006
Members of the U.S. Senate
Dear Senator:
I am writing on behalf of the state commissioners, secretaries and directors of agriculture to express our strong support for emergency disaster assistance for farmers and ranchers as agreed to by the Senate Appropriations Committee in H.R. 4939, the FY 2006 Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Defense, the Global War on Terror and Hurricane Recovery (report 109-230). Assistance is necessary to help farmers, ranchers and their communities recoup from financial losses due to hurricanes, drought, fires, tornadoes, floods, and other natural disasters.
Nearly all states have been affected by natural disasters and in turn many farms and ranches across this country have suffered losses and damages. About 80 percent of U.S. counties were declared disaster or contiguous disaster counties in the last year. While there are risk management programs, such as crop insurance, disaster loans, and emergency grazing; the relief needed greatly exceeds the levels these programs can provide. Supplemental assistance is being offered to farmers and ranchers harmed by the 2005 hurricane season, however, not all producers will be able to attain the necessary levels of assistance to return to viable production levels.
In addition, the weather-related damages and losses in agriculture have significantly affected specialty crop producers and nursery businesses. States appreciate the provision that also provides grants to states that can be used to provide economic assistance to agricultural producers, and gives priority to the support of specialty crops and livestock. This section demonstrates how the federal government and states can partner with one another in directing assistance to those who need it most.
We understand that the Senate will consider this legislation when they return from the Easter Recess. NASDA strongly urges your prompt action and support of this emergency assistance. We look forward to working with you and your staff on this issue so important to agriculture.
Sincerely,
J. Carlton Courter, III
Commissioner
NASDA President