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News Release 2-1-2000

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UNDER SECRETARY GUS SCHMACHER TO DISCUSS USDA'S RESPONSE TO THE DROUGHT OF 1999

CHARLESTON, W.VA. - After suffering more than $200 million in damage from the drought of 1999, West Virginia farmers continue to prepare for the next growing season. Although several state agencies have succeeded in providing assistance to farmers during this difficult time, the action at the federal level has been slow in reaching affected farmers.

On February 3, 2000, Under Secretary Gus Schumacher will discuss the United States Department of Agriculture's position on assistance for West Virginia farmers and the relationship between state and federal government in disaster efforts. The meeting will occur at 1 p.m. at the Governor's Press Conference Room located in the Secretary of State's office.  Along with Agriculture Commissioner Gus R. Douglass, other invited guests include Senate President Earl Ray Tomblin, Speaker of the House Robert Kiss, Farm Service Agency Executive Director Billy Burke and West Virginia Farm Bureau President Charles Wilfong.

Commissioner Douglass believes that this visit will help demonstrate the plight of West Virginia farmers. "While I commend the hard work of Governor Underwood and the West Virginia Legislature during this emergency, I believe that this meeting with Under Secretary Gus Schumacher will result in additional help from the federal government. Gus has been a longtime friend to our farmers and his visit demonstrates his concern for West Virginia's agriculture."

For a biography of Gus Schumacher, please consult the USDA's web page at http://www.usda.gov//agencies/gallery/schumach.htm.
For more information, contact Bill Bissett, 304/558-3708.

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