9-22-2004 |
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Although it hit West Virginia with less severity than it might have, Hurricane Ivan still left severe damage in its wake. Unlike other recent flood events that ravaged the steep valleys in the southern part of the state, Ivan's worst effects were felt along the Ohio River, home to much of the Mountain State's agricultural production. "Although we don't have a handle on specific figures at the moment, it's obvious from reports that West Virginia agriculture took quite a hit from Hurricane Ivan," said Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass. "Many farms were just days away from harvest and now they're ruined." Sometimes moving crops to higher ground still didn't protect them from flood waters. Approximately 500 round bales of hay were destroyed, according to the Farm Service Agency (FSA), even though many of those bales were actually moved to avoid flooding. Corn and soybeans suffered substantial damage, as did tomatoes, melons and pumpkins. Flooded crops that weren't washed away were saturated with grit and grime, probably making them inedible. The West Virginia Department of Agriculture recommends that any vegetables that are covered by floodwater be carefully evaluated. Discard vegetables that may trap silt, such as broccoli, cabbage, lettuce, etc. Produce with intact skins may be used, but should be washed thoroughly. Any produce with damaged skin or peel should also be discarded. Root crops, such as potatoes and carrots, should be safe if washed thoroughly. In addition to produce, the plants themselves may also be damaged by floodwaters. The WVDA warns farmers and gardeners of this damage. "Exposure to water-logged soils for extended periods of time can cause a variety of injuries to plants, including death. Floodwaters may contain harmful pathogens that can contaminate produce. It is important to follow safety guidelines. Wash all produce and discard damaged material. Be certain also to wash your hands after contact with plant material that you suspect may be contaminated," said Commissioner Douglass. For more information on livestock precautions, contact the WVDA's
Marketing and Development Division, 304-558-2210, and for food safety
precautions, contact WVDA's Regulatory and Environmental Affairs
Division, 304-558-2208.
Contact: Buddy Davidson The West Virginia Department of Agriculture protects plant, animal and human health through a variety of scientific, regulatory and consumer protection programs, as mandated by state law. The Commissioner of Agriculture is one of six statewide elected officials in West Virginia. Currently, Commissioner Gus R. Douglass is the longest-serving agriculture commissioner in the nation. For more information, visit www.wvagriculture.org. |
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