Baton Rouge, Louisiana – Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry (R) has taken action to address the dire situation faced by the state’s crawfish industry. The governor issued a disaster declaration on Wednesday in response to the extreme drought conditions that have severely impacted the industry. Landry emphasized the widespread effects of the drought on farmers, the economy, and the way of life in Louisiana. All 365,000 acres dedicated to crawfish farming in the state have been negatively affected, prompting the governor to swiftly act to provide the necessary support.
The disaster declaration by Gov. Landry comes after Louisiana Representatives Clay Higgins (R) and Troy Carter (D) urged him to take action to aid the struggling crawfish industry. Both Higgins and Carter have praised the governor’s decision, recognizing the importance of providing relief to an industry that is integral to Louisiana’s identity and economy. Higgins affirmed his commitment to securing federal assistance for the crawfish industry, highlighting the significance of Gov. Landry’s executive order in unlocking much-needed relief for all involved.
Carter expressed gratitude towards Gov. Landry for his proactive stance in supporting the crawfish industry, emphasizing the cultural significance of crawfish in the state. Both representatives acknowledged the challenges faced by the industry and welcomed the governor’s declaration as a crucial step towards alleviating the economic burden on crawfish producers. The collaborative efforts between state and federal officials underscore the unified approach taken to address the pressing needs of the industry.
The impact of the drought on Louisiana’s water supply has also been recognized at the federal level, with President Biden approving a disaster declaration in September related to saltwater intrusion. The state’s drinking water faced contamination from saltwater due to the historic low levels of the Mississippi River caused by drought and extreme heat. The cascading effects of the drought have prompted swift and decisive action at both the state and federal levels to mitigate the challenges faced by various sectors in Louisiana.
In the face of unprecedented environmental challenges, Louisiana’s leaders are actively working to safeguard the interests of the crawfish industry and the state’s essential resources. The disaster declaration issued by Gov. Landry signifies a critical step towards providing immediate support to those affected by the severe drought conditions. The united efforts of local and federal officials reflect a commitment to preserving Louisiana’s unique way of life and ensuring the resilience of its vital industries in the face of adversity.