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DAFC Commissioner Mike Strain assesses storm damage and visits farmers

Posted at 5:10 PM, Jul 18, 2019
and last updated 2019-07-18 18:10:12-04

Department of Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain is working with the federal government to assess damage after Barry.

Strain's office said it could be a few weeks before complete damage assessments are available.

"Our partners, the LSU AgCenter and the USDA's Farm Service Agency (FSA), are in the process of assessing damage from the storm," said Strain.

"I've also been in communication with top officials from the USDA and Governor John Bel Edwards to discuss a possible secretarial disaster designation to ensure our agriculture industry is protected."

Strain and Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry employees have traveled the state of observe damage and meet with some farmers.

"While the damage was not widespread across the state, we have farmers who were greatly impacted. When you are at the mercy of Mother Nature, it is tough to keep going year after year with so much uncertainty. I have great empathy for our hard working agriculture community," added Strain.

Hurricane season ends November 30.