Eastern Oregon counties awarded $1.25 million to fight grasshopper infestation
By Joe Hathaway on Thursday, May 2nd, 2024 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
EASTERN OREGON — In response to a resurgence of grasshopper infestations across Oregon, State Senator Lynn Findley (R-Vale) has confirmed the allocation of $1.25 million in appropriations to combat the growing problem. This funding, secured this year, is being distributed through the Oregon Department of Agriculture to five heavily affected counties: Baker, Malheur, Harney, Lake, and Klamath.
Senator Findley tells Elkhorn Media Group that the disbursement of funds will be administered in block grants to empower counties to address the infestations as they see fit.
“The specific strategies for control will vary by county, with some likely utilizing vector control districts for coordinated efforts,” said Findley.
The focus is primarily on these five counties due to the severity of the infestation observed. Immediate action, including aerial spraying, is anticipated to mitigate the impact before it worsens. Findley says efforts are underway to identify critical areas for intervention to prevent further escalation of the problem.
“As the situation evolves, state and local agencies are poised to continue working collaboratively to monitor and address the grasshopper infestation,” Findley said.
