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USDA EXTENDS GRAZING PERIOD FOR LIVESTOCK FORAGE PROGRAM

November 1, 2016

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Sanford Bishop is pleased to share that USDA has extended the end of the 2016 grazing period for the Livestock Forage Program (LFP) from October 31 to December 1, 2016. The grazing period helps determine eligibility for LFP assistance for those farmers impacted by drought. This decision follows a discussion last Friday between Congressman Bishop and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack regarding drought conditions in Southwest and Middle Georgia counties.

“I would like to extend my sincerest thanks to Secretary Vilsack and his team at USDA for their swift action in extending the grazing period for the Livestock Forage Program,” said Congressman Bishop. “Drought conditions in Southwest and Middle Georgia counties have been disastrous. My office remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure appropriate drought designations are made in the region. Secretary Vilsack’s decision will help ensure that our farmers remain eligible to receive the assistance they need as USDA examines the scope of this drought.”

Congressman Bishop’s office has collaborated with USDA, the U.S. Drought Monitor, Georgia’s State Climatologist’s office, and the University of Georgia’s Cooperative Extension offices to submit pertinent and accurate environmental data to the U.S. Drought Monitor. Congressman Bishop’s office will continue to work with these organizations to ensure that all farmers experiencing drought conditions in Southwest and Middle Georgia are receiving the appropriate level of assistance.

More information on the Livestock Forage Program can be found here.