CONGRESSMAN SALAZAR REQUESTS DISASTER DECLARATION FOR SAN LUIS VALLEY PRODUCERS

Salazar Wants Alfalfa Losses Included in USDA Disaster Program

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressmen John Salazar (CO-3) today urged the United States Department of Agriculture to consider the economic loss to producers in the San Luis Valley and qualify Saguache, Alamosa, Rio Grande, Conejos, and Costilla for disaster relief.

“Agriculture is the backbone of our economy in the San Luis Valley and we need to do what we can to help our farmers deal with natural disasters,” said Salazar. “Because of the prolonged drought and winter weather patterns, the alfalfa crop in the San Luis Valley has been severely damaged, with the economic loss totalling nearly $60 million. Disaster aid aimed directly at alfalfa producers will go a long way to keeping the San Luis Valley alive.”

June 16, 2006

Secretary Mike Johanns
United States Department of Agriculture
200 Administrative Building
400 Independence Ave. SW
Washington, DC 20250

Dear Secretary Johanns:

I would like to bring to your attention a situation that is very important to Colorado agriculture producers.  This past winter Southern Colorado received less than average snowfall and varying swings in temperature.  One area of Southern Colorado impacted severely by this weather was the San Luis Valley of Colorado, which includes Saguache, Alamosa, Rio Grande, Conejos, and Costilla counties.

Unfortunately, the alfalfa crop of the San Luis Valley was severely harmed by this weather pattern.  Crop surveys show that up to 60% of approximately 130,000 acres were destroyed and the remaining 40% received significant damage.  Estimated losses from alfalfa for producers are upwards of $18 million for this year alone.  This does not even account for the loss in range land and local animal feed stocks to area farmers and ranchers.  The total economic loss to area producers from loss of forage production is estimated to range from $50 to $60 million. 

I understand Governor Owens has sought a federal disaster declaration for twenty-five counties in Colorado and I join him in this effort with hopes that you will also give consideration to the alfalfa losses of the San Luis Valley.  With this declaration, the San Luis Valley farmers and ranchers will be able to take advantage of certain USDA disaster programs.

Please do not hesitate to contact me or my office should you need additional information on this matter. Thank you for your time and attention on this issue.  

Sincerely,
John T. Salazar
Member of Congress