News Releases for July 2002
July 2, 2002
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Hoeven: Sioux And Grant Counties To Get Emergency Conservation Funds
BISMARCK, N.D. - Governor John Hoeven today announced that Sioux and Grant counties have been approved to take applications for US Department of Agriculture Emergency Conservation Funds (ECP) to help ranchers combat the impact of drought on the two counties. Grant County will receive $111,400 and Sioux County will receive $100,000. The money can be used to help ranchers secure water for livestock.
“These and other funds are welcome news, and a good start, but ranchers in other counties are in need,” Hoeven said. “They may be able to access ECP funds, but the application has to be initiated at the local level. We’ll do all possible in our office to help them get relief, as well.”
Hoeven contacted US Secretary of Agriculture Ann Veneman’s office yesterday to push for further assistance after fires ravaged the two counties over the weekend, burning the town of Shields. He also requested that the USDA open CRP land statewide for haying and grazing. Sioux and Grant counties are among 20 counties in southern North Dakota battling extreme dry conditions.
The news follows an announcement today that the USDA has agreed to open CRP acres in 16 counties for haying as well as grazing.
“We will continue to work with various federal agencies to secure any and all assistance available,” Hoeven said.
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