The following information was provided by DFA Media Relations Manager Kristi Dale regarding the efforts of the organization during the events surrounding Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee. Prior to Hurricane Irene, we took several steps to ensure our Dairy Farmers of America, Inc. (DFA) members were aware of and preparing for potential impact. Our field reps and haulers played a critical role in this effort by distributing fliers and other materials with storm preparation tips and a reminder about the DFA Cares Hotline, which is a phone resource for members in need of support. We staffed the DFA Cares Hotline around the clock throughout the end of August, as the storm rolled up the coastline (there were small number of inquiries related to generators and milk transport). In addition, a storm response team of field reps, dispatch personnel and others based out of our Syracuse, New York, office was on call to assist with any situation that arose.

• In early September, our field staff went farm to farm in the areas hit hardest to help with clearing down trees, etc., particularly in eastern New York and southern Vermont.

• Our haulers took a lot of alternate routes and were able to pick up milk in all counties, including those most strongly affected. As a result, milk dumping was relatively minimal.

• We had one member farm that had to move cows to a different location, and one that was devastated by the storm. We are working through the DFA Cares Foundation and with our local field reps to provide support and assistance to these families.

With the hurricane and subsequent rains from Tropical Storm Lee now past, we continue working to help members be aware of and understand disaster assistance programs available through state and federal agencies, and we are encouraging them to track any and all losses. We also continue to have field people going farm to farm in the hardest hit areas. PD