Local State of Drought Emergency
June 30, 2009
Agricultural sector experiencing hardship
Like many other areas of Alberta, Strathcona County is experiencing its most severe drought in years. Livestock producers are struggling to obtain supplies of water, forage and feed for their animals. Crops did not germinate well, and yields are expected to be far below normal.
Council passed a unanimous motion today declaring a Local State of Drought Emergency in Strathcona County. The County is adding its support to other municipalities in encouraging provincial and federal governments to implement the Provincial Drought Response Plan, which would open the way for farmers to benefit from a variety of programs.
Strathcona County is investigating options for securing a source of water that could be made available for agricultural purposes if there is not significant rainfall in July. This would be non-potable water, meaning it is not suitable for human consumption, but could be used for agriculture.
"For some farm families, the situation is approaching a crisis," says Mayor Cathy Olesen. "We want to support them in every way we can, both in practical terms, and in bringing this very serious situation to the attention of other levels of government."
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Contacts
Mayor Cathy Olesen, 780-464-8000
David Churchill, 780-417-7130
Last updated: Wednesday, April 07, 2010
Page ID: 3652