In an effort to assess the recovery status of Vermont farms impacted by Tropical Storm Irene, the Governorâ s Irene Recovery Office, the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets, the USDA Farm Service Agency, and the Vermont Association of Conservation Districts are partnering to conduct a survey of local farmers.
Tropical Storm Irene damaged many farms in Vermont and caused over $10 million in lost crops and soils. This survey is an attempt to better understand the on-going needs of farmers coping with Irene-related losses and determine what additional resources are needed to augment the current recovery effort.
The partners are working with the Castleton Polling Institute to conduct this survey both electronically and by phone.
â Vermont Farmers are resilient and most are well along in their spring work. We are looking forward to the results of this survey, so we have a more accurate picture of the collective impact of Irene to Vermont agriculture,’stated Secretary of Agriculture, Chuck Ross.
â While the USDA county offices are currently busy processing applications for farm disaster relief, we know that looking ahead this survey will help with our continuing Irene recovery efforts,’said Farm Service Agency state director Bob Paquin.
â We want to understand the remaining unmet needs of Vermont Farmers so that we can mobilize the right resources to help them recover,’added Sue Minter, State Irene Recovery Officer.
The survey will be conducted now through May 11th. Contact information has been collated for 375 farms that reported damages.
If your farm was damaged by Tropical Storm Irene and you would like to fill out this survey, please see further information onwww.vermontagriculture.com.
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About the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food, and Markets
VAAFM facilitates, supports and encourages the growth and viability of agriculture in Vermont while protecting the working landscape, human health, animal health, plant health, consumers and the environment. Visitwww.VermontAgriculture.com