Governor Spanberger issues State of Emergency to support Virginia farmers

RICHMOND, Va. (WDBJ) - Gov. Abigail Spanberger has issued a State of Emergency to support Virginia farmers dealing with a statewide hay shortage caused by ongoing drought conditions.

The shortage means less food for cattle and other animals. Officials said the emergency order is helping move hay faster and cheaper.

Pastures left bare

Across the state, pastures are bare, forcing farmers to feed their herds winter reserves early. Months of persistent drought have stunted summer pastures, leaving livestock producers short on feed.

“April showers should bring May flowers. For us, April showers should bring a lot of grass.”

Northern Virginia cattle farmer and state Delegate Michael Webert (R-VA61)said crop yields this summer took a nosedive.

“In my case, when we started cutting in early May, we were in extreme drought. And so our yields were down at least, I think mine were 42%. So this summer, well, the beginning of the summer is probably the hardest because that’s when grass is really starting to grow,” said Webert.

Emergency order eases transport rules

To help farmers like Webert, the governor declared a 45-day state of emergency. The order means fewer restrictions, making it easier for truckers to haul larger loads of hay.

Virginia Farm Bureau President Scott Sink praised the move, calling it “instrumental in helping producers transport as much hay as possible in a timely manner.”

Support crosses party lines

For Webert, the emergency order transcends party lines.

“Again, for me, you know, as a Republican and the governor being a Democrat, this is one of those things where you got to give credit where credit’s due. She listened to her constituents and her folks listened to her constituents and said, this is going to be helpful,” said Webert.