USDA official to visit with Mississippi County farmers today

CHARLESTON, Mo. -- A high-ranking USDA official will visit Southeast Missouri to view flood damage today, including a public appearance in Charleston to talk with those affected by flooding and the operation of the Birds Point-New Madrid Floodway.

USDA Acting Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services Michael Scuse began a two-day tour of Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Missouri on Thursday to meet with people affected by major flooding on the Mississippi River and its tributaries.

Scuse's appearances in Mississippi County today will start with a tour of flood damage at 10 a.m. A public forum for farmers affected by the flood will follow from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Delta Growers Coop in Charleston.

"Our hearts go out to all of those affected by the disasters," Scuse said in a news release. "Our firsthand assessments will allow us to identify the unique farm safety net and rural community development needs of the impacted region."

Pertinent addresses:

Highway 105 South, Charleston, MO