Dairy farms take $4M hit from cows lost in blizzard

SUNNYSIDE, Wash. (AP) — Officials say the more than 1,800 dairy cows that died in a blizzard in southern Washington state earlier this month were a nearly $4 million loss, not including the lost milk production.

Gov. Jay Inslee has made $100,000 available in emergency funding to assist Yakima Valley farmers. He released this statement:

"The storm hit Washington state hard, particularly in the heart of our state's dairy industry. Through quick regulatory assistance and emergency funding, we are making every effort to help farmers with their response to this tragic event. It is encouraging how quickly this team of farmers, regulators and the local community were able to assess the situation and reach solutions that met everyone's needs. Their rapid response and cooperative spirit help avert further impacts of this devastating situation."

Farm Service Agency program specialist Gerri Richter tells the Capital Press that seven dairy farms have given notices of loss to the agency's office in Yakima, and more are expected to report soon.

The dairy producers must give notice within 30 days to prepare to apply for the agency's Livestock Indemnity Program, which pays out at 75 percent of market value.

Steve George, an issues manager for the state dairy federation, says up to 15 farms near Sunnyside lost cows, with one dairy reported to have lost about 600 cows in the Feb. 9 storm.

More news from KIRO 7

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE NEWS APP

Cox Media Group