The American Soybean Association (ASA) congratulates Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack for his announcement today aimed at providing greater flexibility for farmers affected by the worsening drought in many states.

"Secretary Vilsack has a clear and keen understanding of rural and agricultural issues and that understanding enables him to make decisions like today's that help farmers be viable even in the face of harsh conditions. Because of the drought, our fellow farmers in the livestock industry are faced with the need for additional feed sources," said ASA President Steve Wellman, a soybean farmer from Syracuse, Neb. "We value very much our long history of cooperation and collaboration with USDA in the interest of America's farmers and we commend USDA on its foresight today."

A full list of the updated programs and provisions can be found at www.usda.gov/disaster.

ASA farmer-leaders including Wellman, First Vice President Danny Murphy and Chairman Alan Kemper, and CEO Steve Censky met with the Secretary today to discuss the drought and other issues affecting the soybean industry, including biotechnology, trade and renewable energy.

ASA represents U.S. soybean farmers on domestic and international issues of importance to the soybean industry. ASA’s advocacy efforts are made possible through voluntary membership by more than 21,000 farmers in 31 states where soybeans are grown.

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For more information contact:

Steve Wellman, ASA President, 402-269-7024, wellmanfarms@sbllcweb.com
Patrick Delaney, ASA Communications Director, 202-969-7040, pdelaney@soy.org