Continued heavy rains in Iowa have caused considerable flooding and road closures around the state. Despite the sun’s return, many rivers will not crest until this weekend or early next week.
Livestock farmers, just like their urban neighbors, are facing tremendous challenges as a result of the excessive rain and storms and a number of organizations and agencies stand poised to help.
This week, the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) asked hog farmers to help identify empty buildings that could possibly be used for the relocation of hogs and pigs due to flooding.
Famers who know of such facilities are encouraged to contact the IPPA at 1-800-372-7675. Vital information including county, type and size of building and owner contact information will be helpful.
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey is encouraging livestock farmers to continue planning ahead as they seek to care for their livestock during the heavy rains and flooding that is affecting nearly the entire state.
“We continue to hear stories of farmers going to amazing lengths to ensure their animals are cared for and as the flood waters make their way downstream they are going to impact even more producers,” he said. “Flood water, washed out bridges and damaged roads may make it difficult to reach some areas with livestock, so I encourage folks to monitor reports so they aren’t caught off guard.”
Secondary and gravel roads have been greatly affected by flooding and the forecast for continued wet conditions make preparing even more important.
Farmers may want to make sure livestock have plenty of feed and water available before the high water reaches their area and provide reserve supplies if needed.
All farmers are encouraged to report agricultural losses to their local USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) field office which are compiling “Flash Reports” of all agricultural losses across the state.
“Besides all of the difficulties faced by livestock producers, much of the first hay cutting has been lost. Farmers need to let FSA know about these and any other production losses,” Northey said.
In addition, the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers is encouraging livestock farmers to closely monitor manure storage and runoff containment structures.
“These acts of nature are giving farm families more than their fair share of challenges,” says CSIF Field Specialist Megan Ritter. “However, with planning and collaboration with the Iowa DNR we can prevent a bad situation from getting worse.”
If retention areas are reaching their limits, farmers are encouraged to contact the Iowa DNR field office in their area or the emergency hotline at 515-281-8694.