On the Internet: http://disaster.fsa.usda.gov
Hawaii County was designated a primary natural disaster area resulting from ongoing drought conditions, Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s office announced Thursday.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture issued the designation, which allows isle farmers and ranchers to apply for available federal relief.
The declaration became effective Jan. 18. Qualified farm operators are eligible for low-interest emergency loans from the USDA Farm Service Agency to cover losses.
“Pastures and general vegetation over most of the South Kohala district were in very poor condition and brush fires have been a significant ongoing concern,” said National Weather Service hydrologist Kevin Kodama in his monthly drought information statement, posted Thursday. “Ranchers in these areas have already destocked cattle and water hauling operations have been ongoing for several months. “Some Kona coffee growers have had to irrigate more than normal to sustain their orchards.”
Rain gauges around the island have recorded just a fraction of the regular amount this year, and with the coming end of La Niña conditions, it may only get worse. At Laupahoehoe, just 1.15 inches have fallen in 2012. The Hilo airport gauge has recorded 2.1 inches, and just half an inch has fallen in Waimea.
On the Internet: http://disaster.fsa.usda.gov