Mississippi's congressional delegation is supporting Governor Phil Bryant's request for a federal disaster declaration due to devastating storms and record flooding. MPB's Jasmine Ellis reports on how the flooding is affecting farmers.
Farmers in Mississippi are having a hard time accessing their crops as a result of the flooding. Mac McKnight is a farmer in Vicksburg. McKnight says it's frustrating that he's unable to plant crops because his land is underwater.
"Between me and my dad and uncle, we have around 3,000 acres completely underwater," said McKnight. "And if you include our neighbors that are in the small block that we farm, it's around 4,600 acres completely submerged."
Damage has been recorded in 43 of Mississippi's 82 counties. And there are 550,000 acres of agricultural farmland underwater.
Mississippi's congressional delegation has asked President Donald Trump to fully consider Governor Phil Bryant's request for a federal disaster declaration for help with the damage and flooding. Second District Democratic Congressman Bennie Thompson says the federal declaration is badly needed.
"That declaration if approved in its entirety will provide resources for homeowners to get back in their homes and try to get themselves back to normal," said Thompson. "It will provide resources for publically owned facilities... schools... city halls... courthouses... water and sewer... developments."
Farmers needing help can contact the U.S. Department of Agriculture to learn more about their disaster assistance programs.
