Tue, 13 Sep 2022 10:30:05 CDT
Yesterday, Governor Kevin Stitt issued an executive order to deliver drought relief to farmers in western Oklahoma and other parts of the state hit hard by the current drought conditions.
"I will always do everything in my power to support Oklahoma's great farmers and ranchers who work hard every day to feed our state and our nation," said Gov. Stitt. "Whether it's inflation or drought conditions, our agriculture producers have been dealing with some tough challenges this year, so I am glad that with the help of the legislature, we can help provide this relief."
The Emergency Drought Commission will consist of State Secretary of Ag Blayne Arthur, Oklahoma Conservation Commission Executive Director Trey Lam, and the Oklahoma Water Resources Board Executive Director Julie Cunningham.
Today Lam shared some of his thoughts about the importance of the Emergency Drought Commission, "It was good news yesterday when we heard the Governor had declared a drought emergency for all 77 counties in Oklahoma." Lam said they had heard from all of their conservation districts and farmers and ranchers about concerns over the drought with reduced rainfall throughout the last year, "Ponds are dry, water wells have dried up as well, and they are really suffering out there." Lam said this will be a great chance to come together and deliver some resources, "There are 3 Million Dollars currently in the drought emergency fund, and we'll get with the drought commission and decide how to divide up those funds to try and provide some relief to our farmers and ranchers."
Click or tap below to hear the Statement from Trey Lam.
Read Governor Stitt’s executive order here, https://www.sos.ok.gov/documents/executive/2044.pdf
