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For Immediate Release
December 17, 1999
White: Drought Relief Measure Signed Into Law
Eligible Farmers Must Apply Through Farm Service Agency by Feb. 25, 2000
Harrisburg – Gov. Tom Ridge this week signed into law a comprehensive drought relief measure supported by Sen. Mary Jo White (R-21) making millions of dollars in aid available to eligible Pennsylvania farmers.
"The drought of 1999 was perhaps the most severe in history. It is essential that these funds be distributed quickly so that farmers can prepare for the upcoming planting season," said White.
The deadline for applying is Feb. 25, 2000. Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria of the federal 1999 Crop Disaster Program, including a minimum 35 percent crop loss.
Act 57 is the largest drought relief package in the history of Pennsylvania, and larger than the drought aid of any other state in the nation. It also includes funds for flood-damaged communities.
The package provides $60 million for drought relief, to complement a projected $75 million provided by the federal government for crop disaster relief.
In addition, it provides $5.6 million to subsidize crop insurance costs for farmers. The goal is to encourage more farmers to participate in crop insurance programs, to protect them against future crop losses.
White said area farmers must apply in person at one of the following Farm
Service Agency offices:
- Venango-Forest-Warren County Service Center
RD 2, Box 108, Franklin, Pa. 16323 (814-437-6894)
- Clarion County Service Center
RR 3, Box 262 Clarion, Pa. 16214-1904 (814-226-8160)
- Butler County Service Center
602 Evans City Rd., No. 103 (724-482-4800)
- Lawrence County Service Center
1503 Old Butler Rd. New Castle, Pa. 16101 (724-652-3321)
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