Agriculture Secretary Urges Farmers, Pet Owners to Prepare for Potential Flooding

HARRISBURG, Pa., Sept. 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Agriculture Secretary Russell C. Redding today urged farmers to prepare for the potential of flooding in some areas of the state.

"Today's heavy rain has the potential to cause damage to crops and property," said Redding. "Right now, farmers need to prepare as much as possible to minimize loss and help maintain their business."

Redding offered the following tips to help agricultural producers minimize damage caused by flood waters:

• Relocate livestock and animals from low-lying flood-prone areas.
• Move machinery, feed, grain, pesticides, herbicides, round forage bales and nursery stock to higher elevation.
• Double-check manure storage area to ensure there is sufficient capacity.
• Check to ensure there is adequate water and feed stored for emergencies.
• Ensure that generators have fuel and are in good repair for dairy and livestock operations.
• Disconnect electric power to all buildings that may flood.

Those dealing with flood-related crop damage should note the following:

• If participating in a federally-sponsored crop insurance plan, you must notify an agent within 72 hours of discovery of crop damage.
• All residue and crop damage should be left intact until insurance agents can properly assess extent of damage.
• Individuals may contact Karen Powell at 717-705-9511 if there are questions pertaining to crop insurance in Pennsylvania.

Redding also reminded pet owners to take steps to ensure pet safety. If evacuating, pet owners should make plans to take their pets with them. If pet owners are going to a shelter, they should contact their county emergency management agency to find out if a State Animal Response Team (SART) shelter has been set up or where pet friendly shelters are located.

September is National Preparedness Month. Families should take time to review emergency plans and check supplies in their family and car emergency kits. Free plan templates and kit checklists are available at www.ReadyPA.org.

In addition, motorists are reminded to never drive through standing water or around barricades intended to limit access to flooded roadways.

Media contact: Nicole L. C. Bucher, 717-787-5085

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture