Disaster relief program open

Agricultural producers who suffered losses from natural disasters between 2005 and 2007 can sign up for three new government programs created to address disaster victims.

Applications are being accepted for the Livestock Compensation Program, Livestock Indemnity Program and Crop Disaster Program, announced Mark Tays, county executive director for the Lampasas/ Burnet County Farm Service Agency.

Eligible ranchers and other livestock producers can apply to receive benefits through the Livestock Compensation Program and Livestock Indemnity Program, as signup already is under way. Signup for the Crop Disaster Program, which applies to farmers who suffered quantity losses to their crops, began Oct. 15.

Signup deadlines for these programs will be announced in the future. The U.S. Department of Agriculture also will announce a signup for quality losses soon.

"Although ending dates for the signup periods have not yet been announced, it is important for producers to apply for benefits as soon as possible," Tays said. "Timely applications will ensure that producers receive timely payments."

For more information on applying for FSA disaster assistance and to schedule an appointment, call the Lampasas/Burnet County FSA at (512) 715-8026 or 715-8029. Detailed program information about LCP, LIP and CDP is also available in a fact sheet titled "Ag- ricultural Assistance Act of 2007," found on FSA's Web site at http:// www.fsa.usda.gov. Click on "Disaster Assistance Programs."