Date: March 30, 2017Office: North Dakota Department of Agriculture MEDIA: For more information, please contact Michelle Mielke at (701) 328-2233 or mmielke@nd.gov. BISMARCK – Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring is encouraging farmers and ranchers in northeast and north central North Dakota to monitor conditions and evaluate their operations for potential flood impacts that could affect livestock and other property. Rivers and streams in northeast North Dakota are expected to crest this weekend. National Weather Service data indicates snow melt with a significant rain event could create overland or increased river and stream flooding. Goehring suggests all producers take a few moments during their spring preparations to plan the movement of their livestock, and review the locations of feed, stored grain, chemicals and equipment both inside and outside of storage buildings. He also encourages producers to be aware of roads susceptible to floodwaters that could limit emergency travel and access to livestock or stored grain. “Producers in flood watch or warning areas should monitor forecasts closely, identify steps to minimize impacts to their livestock and property, and keep accurate documentation, including dates and photographs of impacted property,” Goehring said. River flow forecasts show the potential to impact agricultural operations, including the potential to cut off farmsteads. Governor Doug Burgum has also issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency in Walsh County based a potential record flooding of the Park River. “Make sure that your weather radios and communication equipment are in good working order and monitor the radio for new forecasts,” he said. # # #
