Rep. Shuler Helps Secure Drought Relief for WNC Farmers
Over $600 Million in Emergency Aid on the Way

Washington, D.C. - Representative Heath Shuler has announced that farmers across Western North Carolina who have lost crops or struggled to feed and water cattle due to the exceptional drought that has hit the state will be eligible for federal assistance. The funding was made available through the Fiscal Year 2008 Omnibus appropriations bill that has already passed the Congress.

"Our farmers have faced an extremely difficult year, from the Easter weekend freeze through the worst drought in generations. This extension of emergency disaster relief will provide the help our farmers need to get through the winter," Rep. Shuler said. "I am proud to have been able to once again stand with our farmers and get them the assistance they need."

The Omnibus appropriations bill contains over $600 million for emergency agriculture disaster assistance. It extends an earlier $3.9 billion disaster-aid package passed in May. According to Rep. Bob Etheridge, Agriculture Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities and Risk Management Chairman, farmers could begin applying for the aid early next year.

The Omnibus appropriations bill is currently awaiting the President's signature.

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