USDA Announces $800 Million in Hurricane Disaster Assistance
WASHINGTON, Oct. 28, 2005 - Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns today announced a proposal to dedicate $800 million in hurricane recovery funds for agricultural and timber producers, rural low-income housing assistance, restoration of natural resources and national forests, commodity food assistance programs, and rebuilding of USDA facilities.
Release No. 0469.05 | |||
Contact: | |||
Ed Loyd (202)720-4623 | |||
"The hurricanes dealt a blow to agricultural and timber producers in the Gulf region," said Johanns. "These funds will provide direct assistance to producers, as well as indirect aid through grants and loans. USDA is committed to assisting with long-term recovery in the region." USDA is authorizing $250 million for crop disaster, livestock, dairy, tree and aquaculture assistance. These funds are authorized under Section 32 of the Agricultural Act of August 24, 1935, which allows the Secretary to restore producers purchasing power. A distribution plan for the $250 million of Section 32 funds is still being finalized. Additionally, $550 million in hurricane recovery aid is proposed through a reallocation of existing funds. These funds would go toward cost-share assistance for emergency cleanup of agricultural and timber lands as well as watersheds, rental and home repair assistance for low-income rural residents, the rebuilding of USDA research centers and relocation of USDA personnel. These funds would be distributed as follows:
More information about USDAs hurricane response is available http://www.usda.gov/. | |||
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