Wed., Nov. 20 02 - Additional Drought Relief Must Wait For Next Congress

Suggested Lead:

U.S. senators were shut down yesterday in an attempt to get more funding for drought and disaster-stricken farmers and ranchers, according to Bryan Dierlam. Dierlam is legislative director for the National Cattlemen's Beef Association. He says any further efforts to secure additional funding will have to wait until next year.

Cut #1       :30            Outcue: "...when Congress returns."

According to Dierlam, the beef industry is grateful for the drought relief provided by the Bush Administration this year but is determined that all beef producers get assistance who need it.

Cut #2       :39            Outcue: "...drought relief to producers."

Dierlam says a program is now in place to make future drought and disaster relief more efficient for livestock producers.

Cut #3       :39            Outcue: "...when it’s most needed."

This year some parts of the West suffered the lowest rainfall reported in 150 years, and range experts say it will take many years to recover even after the rains normalize.