FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, March 8, 2012
For more information contact:
Holly VonLuehrte
(502) 573-0450
Carey Brown, Kentucky Cattlemen's Association
(859) 278-0899

 

Commissioner Comer and eastern Kentucky legislators praise Kentucky Cattlemen's Foundation
and farm supply companies donating to disaster relief, encourage more support

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 8, 2012) — In the wake of the terrible storms that ravaged farms across the Commonwealth, Agriculture Commissioner James Comer commended the efforts of the Kentucky Cattlemen’s Foundation for raising funds and assistance from farm supply companies to aid in the disaster relief efforts.

In just one day, the foundation raised more than $12,000 from agriculture companies and individual farmers. This money was used to purchase fencing and other farm materials desperately needed to rebuild cattle farms affected by last week’s deadly tornadoes. In response to the foundation’s call for help, Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment in Casey County drastically reduced its prices and will deliver the much-needed materials to the affected areas. The Blue Grass Livestock Marketing Group also contributed $5,000 to the foundation’s efforts.

“I’m so proud of the agriculture community for immediately stepping up to help our farm families in need,” Commissioner Comer said. “I encourage other companies to follow the lead of Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment and Blue Grass Livestock Marketing Group and donate money, materials, and manpower during this crisis.”

On Friday, Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment will deliver disaster-relief materials to Holbrook Veterinary Clinic in West Liberty. Department of Agriculture Deputy Commissioner Bruce Harper and Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association Executive Vice President Dave Maples will be on hand to offer assistance.

“I’m so grateful to these agriculture leaders for lending a hand in my community,” said state Senate Majority Floor Leader Robert Stivers of Manchester. “But there is much more to do. It is my hope that within the following weeks, eastern Kentucky’s farmers will have all the supplies and resources they need to rebuild and return to normal operations.”

“West Liberty farmers are grateful for the contributions to assist with securing fences and farms throughout our communities,” said state Rep. John Will Stacy of West Liberty. “Efforts such as these have helped spur our recovery, and I appreciate this outpouring of assistance.”