The State Agriculture Secretary says a new federal disaster declaration for drought assistance will be a big help for farmers. The declaration means 42 Wisconsin counties will be able to apply for federal aid.
Ag Secretary Rod Nilsestuen says it will help cover damages from drought conditions experienced across the state over the summer. Farmers will be able to apply for aid that will help offset their losses.
However, Nilsestuen says the aid won't help them cover all their losses. He says it's not "major league" help, but it is appreciated by farmers.
The 42 counties declared drought disaster areas are Adams, Ashland, Barron, Bayfield, Brown, Buffalo, Burnett, Calumet, Chippewa, Clark, Door, Douglas, Dunn, Eau Claire, Florence, Forest, Iron, Juneau, Kewaunee, Langlade, Lincoln, Marathon, Marinette, Marquette, Menominee, Monroe, Oconto, Oneida, Outagamie, Pierce, Polk, Portage, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, Shawano, St. Croix, Taylor, Vilas, Washburn, Waushara and Wood.
AUDIO: Andrew Beckett reports (MP3 :58)
