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(Continued from Page 3) from normal of -4.26. The Southwestern Mountain region is the least affected, with a reading of -2.55, which still registers in the “severe” range. The state composite is -3.67, also in the “severe”range.
One bright spot in the task force’s report is the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services crop report. “The last week of October brought favorable fall weather, ideal for fall planting and harvesting.” Rainfall during the week over most of the state improved soil moisture levels considerably, according to VDACS. Early in October the soil moisture readings had been 92 percent short and only eight percent adequate. The long overdue rains boosted the “adequate” rating to 46 percent, leaving just more than half (54 percent) of the state reporting a shortfall in soil moisture.
Crop harvests and winter grain planting were reported to be pretty much on schedule, according to reports received by VDACS. Pastureland was rated “fair” in most of the state, “but ‘poor1 in Northern Virginia.” Livestock was generally said to be in good condition, with market sales continuing.
A total of 85 localities in the state has been declared primary drought disaster areas, with an additional nine counties and three cities afforded secondary status. Farmers in all those designated areas are eligible for federal disaster assistance through the U. S. Department of Agriculture. Agriculture-related businesses, such as feed suppliers and farm equipment dealers, are also eligible for special loan assistance through the federal Small
96.7%