Senate Urged to Support Conrad's Disaster Amendment

December 1, 2006 - A coalition of agricultural associations, including the American Sheep Industry Association, urged the U.S. Senate, to support the Conrad Amendment.

The amendment would provide more inclusive assistance to victims of natural disasters in the 2005 to 2006 production years, covering disasters such as drought and flooding.

Last year, 88 percent of U.S. counties were declared disaster areas by the U.S. Department of Agriculture; this year, 66 percent have received the same designation.

A livestock compensation program and a retained ewe-lamb program would be available in drought disaster areas of 2005 or 2006 if Congress is able to finalize legislation with this disaster package.

Action is expected the first week of December as the 109th Congress wraps up.

Staff contact: Peter Orwick, ext. 33

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