The U.S. Department of Agriculture has renewed a disaster declaration for Hawaii Island because of volcanic emissions from Kilauea volcano. The declaration is in response to a Dec. 27 request from Gov. Neil Abercrombie citing continued agricultural production losses caused
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has renewed a disaster declaration for Hawaii Island because of volcanic emissions from Kilauea volcano.
The declaration is in response to a Dec. 27 request from Gov. Neil Abercrombie citing continued agricultural production losses caused by vog, also known as volcanic air pollution, according to a prepared statement released Friday by the governor’s office.
The federal declaration allows Hawaii County agricultural producers to apply for emergency loans because of damage caused by volcanic emissions. This type of disaster assistance has been provided for Hawaii Island agricultural producers since 2008, according to the governor’s office.
Vog-related damage to vegetable crops, especially to leafy greens, some orchard crops, flowers and foliage, including those under greenhouses, has been reported. Ranchers have experienced adverse impacts on range grasses and premature corrosion of fencing, gates and other metal infrastructure, according to the governor’s office.
Applications must be filed by August. For more information, contact the Hilo USDA Farm Service Agency at 933-8381, ext. 2.
