Senator meets with Montana Stockgrowers, discusses concerns affecting ranchers
Pictured from left to right are Gene Curry (Valier),Tucker Hughes (Stanford), Sen. Walsh, Watty Taylor (Busby),Errol Rice (Helena), Tom Hougen (Melstone),Wanda Pinnow (Baker).
(The following is a press release from U.S. Senator, John Walsh) – Senator John Walsh today announced that starting Tuesday, April 15, Montana farmers and ranchers can sign up for disaster assistance programs.
The disaster assistance programs will be implemented by USDA, bringing long-awaited relief for many livestock producers. The Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP) and Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) will provide payments to eligible producers for livestock deaths and grazing losses for calendar years 2012forward.
“Montana’s farmers and ranchers not only generate the most economic growth in our state, they generate some of the best products in the world,” said Walsh. “News of the enrollment period for the disaster assistance program is welcome, but far overdue. I will continue to bring Montana’s voice to the Senate and I will continue to fight against FSA office closures that could prevent Montana’s farmers and ranchers from enrolling in the disaster relief program or accessing other resources they rely on.”
Disaster assistance, possible Farm Service Agency (FSA) office closures, sage grouse, and the effects of diseases on Montana livestock were discussed during a meeting Walsh had today with representatives of the Montana Stockgrowers Association.
During the meeting with Montana Stockgrowers, Walsh highlighted the beginning of this enrollment period and discussed the negative consequences if the Obama Administration’s plan to close 250 FSA offices goes through. Last week, Walsh wrote to the leaders of the appropriations subcommittee with jurisdiction, urging them to maintain funding for the FSA offices and block the Administration’s proposal.
The Stockgrowers also expressed their concern over the effects of bovine brucellosis on Montana’s livestock, and the possibility of using federal funds to research the disease in cattle.
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The Montana Stockgrowers Association, a non-profit membership organization, has worked on behalf of Montana’s cattle ranching families since 1884. Our mission is to protect and enhance Montana ranch families’ ability to grow and deliver safe, healthy, environmentally wholesome beef to the world.