West Virginia Legislature passes $10 million in drought relief for farmers

CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK)– The West Virginia House of Delegates and State Senate approved $10 million in drought relief to the West Virginia Department of Agriculture.

The bill is worded in such a way that the WV Department of Agriculture will be able to distribute the money however they see fit.

Agriculture Commissioner Kent Leonhardt told 13 News that a majority of the funds will be used for weed control as well as re-seeding to help replenish forage yields.

Farmers tell 13 News that this aid could not come at a better time. The drought has caused losses in hay production and access to water sources.

“Well, this could be a saving grace. This summer’s been one of the driest that we’ve ever had on season. And the water levels, the creeks are dry,” said Andy Crihfield, co-owner of John Crihfield Farm. “The pasture fields was burned up. So if we can get money for reseeding and fertilize and land and things like that, that would be great. It would help and help out tremendously.”

The bill is currently awaiting the governor’s signature.

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