Ventura Board Seeks Federal Aid for Farmers Stung by Freeze

The Ventura County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday asked the governor for help in obtaining federal disaster relief for farmers who suffered record crop losses during a three-day freeze last month.

The board, in a unanimous vote, requested that Gov. George Deukmejian recommend that the U. S. Department of Agriculture declare the county a disaster area, a move that could provide Ventura County farmers with financial aid such as low-interest federal loans.

County officials estimate that farmers suffered $45 million in crop losses from the January cold spell that dropped temperatures to below freezing for three consecutive nights. Agriculture, the county’s largest industry, produces nearly $600 million in revenue annually, according to county records.

“It’s been a disaster to farmers,” said 2nd District Supervisor Madge Schaefer, who made the motion requesting disaster relief. “It looks like 90% of the broccoli and spinach were wiped out, and 33% of this year’s avocado crop.”

‘Worst in County History’

Ventura County Agricultural Commissioner Earl McPhail has called the freeze “the worst in county history.” Hardest hit by the cold were growers of lemons, avocados, Valencia oranges and strawberries, he said.

County officials predict that damage to lemon and avocado trees will reduce crop yields for two to four years. Officials also predict a 30% decline in total agricultural production next year because of the January freeze.

The state Office of Emergency Services will review the county request and forward its recommendation to the governor, spokeswoman Nancy Hardaker said. It is up to the governor to decide whether to request federal disaster assistance, she said.

The governor is authorized to provide emergency assistance for such disasters as fires, floods and earthquakes but not for crop damage, Hardaker said. Generally, the Agriculture Department will provide emergency relief upon a governor’s recommendation if the damage to crops exceeds 30% of its total value countywide, she said.

State Sen. Ed Davis (R-Valencia) last week sent a letter to the governor requesting his assistance in having the county declared a federal disaster area.