Climatologists Say Oklahoma Drought “Worst Since Dust Bowl Days of 1930’s”

First posted on 07-31-2008

Gov. Henry Visits with Farmers, Ranchers in Drought-Stricken Oklahoma Panhandle

Oklahoma Gov. Brad Henry recently met with farmers and ranchers in Cimarron County to discuss the formidable challenges facing them as the result of the ongoing drought. The Governor has already requested federal aid for nine drought-stricken counties in northwestern Oklahoma and today assured residents that state officials will do everything in their power to help.

“This drought has wreaked havoc on farmers and ranchers,” Gov. Henry said after visiting the Oklahoma Panhandle.

“Experts say this is the worst drought the region has witnessed since the Dust Bowl of the 1930s, and it is easy to see why. Farmers are coping with failing crops. Ranchers are forced to sell off cattle because there is no grass for grazing. There are serious and significant consequences to this drought.

“We are doing everything we can to help Oklahomans impacted by this drought. Unfortunately, the best remedy for this disaster is rain.”

Last month, the Governor requested federal disaster aid for farmers and ranchers in nine northwestern Oklahoma counties. He and state agriculture officials have also intervened in a push by a national wildlife conservation group to restrict haying and grazing on designated lands. Gov. Henry and Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture Terry Peach have urged the U.S. Department of Agriculture to fight for the right of ranchers and farmers to utilize the disputed lands.

The Governor flew to Boise City recently and visited with residents at the town square and county courthouse. Accompanied by Secretary Peach, Gov. Henry then toured area farms and ranches devastated by the drought.

Climatologists and longtime Panhandle residents have compared the latest drought to the Dust Bowl days. Extreme heat, dry weather, high winds and other factors have damaged hay forages, livestock, grazing lands, alfalfa and other crops.