Washington Farmers Still Dealing With Aftermath Of Flooding

Thanks to an atmospheric river from the Pacific, portions of Washington, especially western Washington, have delt with record flooding over the past week.

That flooding has caused significant losses for many farmers, from saturated fields, damaged crops, equipment loss, barn damage and even damage to homes.  The Washington State Department of Agriculture is reported in some low-lying areas, standing water remains, preventing farmers from fully accessing their land to assess the extent of the damage.  As conditions transition from active flooding to recovery, farmers will continue to encounter new and ongoing challenges.

WSDA added livestock producers are also feeling the effects, with limited access to pastures, disruptions to feed supplies, and in some cases, the need to move animals to higher ground.

Farmers are encouraged to document any losses, take photos when it is safe, and reach out for assistance as needed. At this time, the agricultural community is being urged to connect with local assistance programs.  Some of the available resources include: 

• The Skagit County Foundation (for assistance with flood-related damage or displacement)
• The Whatcom County Foundation (for assistance with flood-related damage or displacement) 
• Assistance Returning Farmland to Pre-Disaster Conditions: Snohomish County USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA): (425) 334-3131 

Agriculture is a stressful profession without a devastating natural disaster.  Animal mortality/ illness, damaged equipment, contaminated feed, lost human and animal housing only compounds that excessive stress.  Don't forget, if you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to AgriStress Helpline.  You can call or  text (833) 897-2474.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com