For Release: Monday, October 21, 2002
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

ALL COUNTIES IN 12TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT DECLARED DROUGHT DISASTER AREAS

Washington -- U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) today applauded Agriculture Secretary Ann Veneman's decision to name 58 Illinois counties - including all nine counties in the 12th Congressional District - as primary natural disaster areas. The designation came in response to Governor George Ryan's request in September to give 63 Illinois counties a disaster designation due to severe drought conditions. Costello also urged Secretary Veneman to respond quickly to this request in September. In addition, 22 Illinois counties were designated as contiguous disaster areas.

"This is necessary assistance to the farm families that are dealing with a very tough season," said Costello. "The drought has dramatically affected production levels. I will continue to work with leaders at all levels of government to coordinate appropriate relief efforts."

The 12th Congressional District is comprised of Alexander, Jackson, Madison, Monroe, Perry, Randolph, St. Clair, Union and Williamson counties. The primary and contiguous disaster designation will allow farmers who qualify to receive low-interest loans from the Farm Service Agency. To further address the effects of the drought, Costello has cosponsored H.R. 5383, The Emergency Agricultural Disaster Assistance Act of 2002.

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