BOSTON - Senators John Kerry and Edward Kennedy today announced that due to excessive rain and high winds during the period of July 23 through August 31, 2008, parts of Worcester, Norfolk and Bristol Counties were officially designated disaster areas by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

"Last summer's storms made it difficult for many of our farmers in Worcester, Norfolk and Bristol counties to meet production quotas and make ends meet. With USDA's official designation, those affected will now be eligible for federal disaster assistance," said Senator Kerry.

"Massachusetts farmers suffered from a devastating series of storms last summer, and Senator Kennedy is pleased that this federal assistance will be made available to help them get back on their feet," said Kennedy spokesman Keith Maley.

The available assistance includes Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans and the Supplemental Revenue Assistance Program, which was recently approved as part of the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008.

Affected farmers are urged to call either Senator Kerry's office at 617-565-8519 or Senator Kennedy's office at 617-565-3170, or their local FSA office to receive further information.

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