Obama Announces $30 Million to Help Farmers

Aug 08, 2012

U.S. Government Provides Funds for Drought Relief

U.S. farmers are experiencing the worse drought in over 50 years, a recurring headline that has been making headline news across North America. President Barack Obama made an important announcement late yesterday that many farmers across America have been waiting for – financial relief to get through the drought. Obama announced that the administration will provide $30 million to assist farmers who are in over their heads with server drought conditions. The announcement that was made by the President himself did not require congresses approval.

The drought conditions have gotten so bad, that farmers have to sell off their livestock due to lack of pasture and feed. The aid announcement is in addition to the relief package that was announced on August 2 where the House passed $383 million in relief for livestock ranchers. This is the only aid package that has been passed since the other five agriculture programs lacked the votes to meet approval. The Senate won’t be returning back to the House until Sept 10 which is infuriating some farmers and ranchers.

The Obama administration is in the midst of working with crop insurance companies to wave a grace period for unpaid insurance premiums. The U.S. government has also opened up federal lands for haying and pasture for livestock.

Video: Syngenta Ag Stories - Reanna Hagel, Channel Marketing Manager

Growing up on a cow-calf operation and small feedlot near Lumby, BC, Reanna learned agriculture the hands-on way with her sister on the family farm. Today, as Channel Marketing Manager for Syngenta Canada, what Reanna loves most about her work is simple: the customer is always at the centre. Whether that's a grower or a channel partner, she understands them on a personal level - because she's the daughter of one. But for Reanna, supporting ag doesn't stop at her job. She volunteers with local 4-H clubs, lends a hand to her farming neighbours, and is raising her own kids to understand and respect the land. Her advice to the next generation? "It's an amazing time to be in the industry - it's going to look completely different in 20 years. To be part of the evolution is very exciting."