Daggett is declared drought disaster area

Despite an adequate water year for most of Utah, Daggett County qualified for a drought disaster declaration.

Utah Commissioner of Agriculture and Food Leonard Blackman asked for, and received, the declaration from Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. The severe drought conditions caused an estimated $900,000 in damage to crops.

The drought also affected range and pasture conditions resulting in losses to those producers as well.

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns will review the request and act within the next few weeks. Possible aid for farmers and ranchers would come in the form of low-interest loans.