Staff
For the second consecutive week a county in the immediate area has declared a local state of agricultural disaster.
“With the severe lack of any substantial rainfall in many areas, coupled with the late spring frosts and the subsequent risk of pest and disease infestations throughout the municipality, all aspects of the County of Wetaskiwin’s agricultural community are being affected,” said Reeve Garry Dearing. “The compounded ramifications of these natural processes have affected the ability of livestock producers to provide forage, feed and water as well as inhibiting the germination and growth of cereal and oilseed crops throughout the majority of the County of Wetaskiwin.”
The decision during a special meeting held on Friday, June 26 where council also hoped the declaration would prompt both the provincial and federal governments to begin providing disaster relief services to the county.
More information on the current moisture conditions and the provincial government’s response to the drought crisis can be found online at: agric.gov.ab.ca
One day prior to the County of Wetaskiwin’s declaration, Lacombe County also declared themselves in a state of local agricultural disaster also citing a lack of significant moisture.
