New Drought-Related Feed Assistance

Cattle producers in regions hardest hit by drought will receive attention from a new Drought Coordinating Council.  USDA has developed the Council to monitor ongoing drought conditions, their impact on producers and to coordinate resources to assist affected producers and communities. 

 “This proactive approach on the part of the USDA reinforces in the minds of cattle producers that their needs are recognized by this Administration,” says Eric Davis, Idaho cattleman and NCBA president.  “NCBA and USDA have been working together to find creative solutions to the continuing drought, and this is another positive step for cattle producers who are suffering.”

 USDA Secretary Veneman said the agency is making available surplus stocks of non-fat dry milk to livestock producers in areas hardest hit by drought.  “One of our most pressing concerns right now is the ability of pasture and grazing lands to support livestock herds,” says Veneman.  “Non-fat dry milk can serve as a high quality source of protein to maintain foundation livestock herds.”

 NCBA also is working with USDA to develop and implement pasture, range and forage programs that producers could use to deal with the consequences of drought.  These tools are based on provisions that NCBA developed as part of the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000.

 At the NCBA Board of Director’s meeting in February, producers made clear that disaster assistance remains a huge priority as many areas are still suffering from years of drought.  Producers adopted resolutions to pursue adequate funding for those adversely impacted by disaster conditions.

“This Administration has remained committed to cattle producers nationwide," says Davis.  “We are grateful to have the USDA as a partner in these endeavors.”