Friday - August 01, 2008

Vog damages Big Island crops

On July 31 a disaster declaration was approved which would allow Big Island farmers to apply for low interest loans to cover losses they sustained due to volcanic gases emitted by Kilauea Volcano.

Vog is created when sulfur dioxide released by the volcano mixes with sun and dust. This dangerous mix is currently blanketing the Kau District south of the volcano and drying out crops. Protea (pictured on the right) and other flower farmers are particularly susceptible.

The low interest loans to be offered by the government would allow coverage of up to 100 percent of production or up to $500,000 in physical losses.

Vog has affected all of the Hawaiian Islands' air quality to varying degrees since a new vent opened up in Kilauea's Halema'uma'u Crater in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

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Topic Views: 658
Author: N.A.Whitling

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