Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson testified today before the House Agriculture Committee regarding disaster conditions in Idaho and their impacts on agriculture.

"Idaho’s agricultural producers are facing significant trials due to catastrophic fires and severe drought," Simpson said. "This summer was too hot and too dry for too long. I have seen barley fields in Idaho that appeared harvested because there were simply no heads on the plant.  They never grew." 

While speaking about Idaho’s severe wildfires Simpson related the loss of grazing land due to the Murphy Complex fire which burned over 600,000 acres. "As a result of losing these grazing lands some ranchers were forced to sell their herds. Other ranchers lost livestock to the fire itself. Many were left with no alternative grazing allotments," Simpson related. "The effects of the Murphy fire will be felt by ranchers for years to come."

"Whether it is floods, hurricanes, or fires, our nation has traditionally responded with aid to those affected by natural disasters. While Idahoans affected by these disasters may not be as visible as other disaster victims, their economic losses and the disruption of their lifestyles is no less tragic."

Simpson was invited to appear before the Committee by Chairman Collin Peterson (D-MN). Prior to the hearing Simpson, along with Congressman Greg Walden (R-OR), led a bi-partisan effort to ask the House Appropriations Committee to extend the deadline for the Crop Disaster, Livestock Indemnity, and Livestock Compensation Programs to December 31, 2007, to provide a safety net for the farmers and ranchers who have experienced losses this year.

Simpson also took the opportunity express his gratitude to firefighters during the turbulent fire season. "They are heroes," Simpson said.