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| Gov. asked to declare a state of emergency |
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Wednesday, September 24, 2008
By KEN BRADLEY - Staff Writer
Continued drought conditions in Franklin County that have caused farm losses prompted the board of supervisors to approve a resolution, requesting Gov. Tim Kaine to declare a state of emergency in the county.
If Kaine declares a state of emergency in Franklin County because of the drought, county farmers would be eligible for federal aid.
The Virginia Cooperative Extension, which has an office in Franklin County, said the prolonged drought encompasses the entire county and has significantly affected all annual crops and most perennial crops, including hay and pasture.
"As a result, most pastureland was over-grazed and many farmers have delved into winter feed supplies in July," said Extension Agent Tim Johnson.
The fall hay crop will be very limited because of the drought, he said. Drought conditions prompted early harvest of corn for silage in late July and early August and reduced yields relative to normal conditions.
Also, excessive heat prompted early harvest of some tobacco, again lowering yields.
Johnson said the drought has impacted groundwater supplies and surface water supplies, and livestock has suffered from drought, resulting in lower production.
Drought conditions have affected 60,000 acres of pasture. Pasture losses are estimated to be 70 percent or $6.2 million. A total of 20,000 acres of hay has been affected, resulting in losses of 45 percent or $3.2 million.
Johnson said corn losses are estimated to be 42 percent or $2.8 million for silage and 55 percent or $1.1 million for grain.
Losses due to drought for the 1,700 acres of soybeans are estimated to be 85 percent or $260,100.
Also tobacco farmers are expected to sustain a 60 percent loss or $1.9 million. |
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