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Strain Statement on Updated Crop Damage Estimates

Strain Statement on Updated Crop Damage Estimates – Damage Caused by Historic Flooding
Baton Rouge, La. (September 13, 2016) – Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain, D.V.M., travels to Washington D.C. again tomorrow seeking funding for farmers who suffered severe crop and infrastructure damages during the historic flooding event in August. According to LSU AgCenter economist Dr. Kurt Guidry, damage is currently estimated at $276,697,110.
“I am working closely with Governor John Bel Edwards to secure funding and assistance for our agricultural producers. The flooding throughout much of South Louisiana impacted the production and quality of our crops. As the rain continues throughout the state, we expect these numbers to increase yet again because of excess moisture which causes damage to crops and harvest delays,” said Strain. “Unfortunately, this is the second rain event to impact our farmers this year. In March, the LSU AgCenter estimated $90 million in damages from a similar rainfall event that caused widespread flooding in North Louisiana. Livestock and infrastructure losses plus an increase in production costs were the result of that weather event.”
More than 30 inches of rain fell within a 48 hour period throughout much of South Louisiana leaving a significant impact on the agricultural industry.
Strain traveled to Washington D.C. last week with Governor Edwards to testify before Congress. Source: www.ldaf.state.ls.us