GLICKMAN MAKES DISASTER DECLARATION FOR FOUR FLORIDA COUNTIES
                                               Release No. 0093.00 
                                                                   
                                Mary Beth Schultheis (202) 720-4623
                                      mary_beth.schultheis@usda.gov
                                         Dann Stuart (202) 690-0474
                                       Dann_Stuart@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
                                                                   

                                                       
GLICKMAN MAKES DISASTER DECLARATION FOR FOUR FLORIDA COUNTIES    

           Homestead, Fla, March 22, 2000  -- Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman
has named Dade County, Florida and contiguous counties of Broward, Collier and
Monroe disaster areas because of losses to farmers caused by the spread of citrus
canker that began with Hurricane Irene on October 14, 1999.  This declaration
qualifies eligible farmers for low interest emergency loans.

     "Citrus canker is damaging our groves and severely impacting Florida
growers," said Glickman, while inspecting an infected lime grove in Homestead,
Fla.  "Emergency loans can help growers get back on their feet after experiencing
losses due to the spread of this disease."

     Citrus canker can ruin an orange, lime, or grapefruit grove.  Although often
not visible for several years, citrus canker weakens the trees, eventually leaving
them unproductive.  In later stages, it is characterized by the unsightly brown
splotches that cover the fruit and leaves.  The disease is spread easily through
wind and rain.  

     This designation makes family-sized farm operators in all counties eligible
for low-interest emergency loans from the Farm Service Agency (FSA).  Farmers in
eligible counties have eight months from the date of this declaration to apply for
the loans to help cover part of their actual losses.   Farmers may contact their
local FSA offices for further information on eligibility requirements and
application procedures.  Additional information can be found on website:
http://www.fsa.usda.gov/pas/disaster/assistance1.htm.

     Glickman's visit to Miami area is part of his national tour highlighting the
escalating stakes in the battle against unwanted pests and diseases. His tour
began in New York, and will continue to San Diego and Long Beach, conducting
inspections and briefings on the ongoing fight to protect America's agriculture
and natural resources from pests and diseases.

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