Disaster Declaration Issued in Louisiana Due to Crawfish Shortage – Sky Bulletin

In the wake of a significant crawfish shortage in Louisiana, Governor Jeff Landry has declared a state disaster for the vital crawfish industry this Wednesday. Louisiana, known for being the main producer of these beloved crustaceans essential to the region’s seafood boils, is facing an unprecedented shortfall.

The shortage results from last year’s drought, excessive heat, saltwater intrusion along the Mississippi River, and an intense winter freeze that have collectively harmed this year’s crawfish yield, leading to a surge in prices for consumers seeking “mudbugs.” Governor Landry expressed concern that the shortage impacts not just Louisiana’s economy but its cultural traditions as well.

“With each of the 365,000 acres dedicated to crawfish farming in Louisiana impacted by these adverse conditions, I find it imperative to declare a disaster,” stated Landry. “The industry is in dire need of support at this juncture.”

The governor’s disaster declaration paves the way for accessing federal aid, a move supported by a plea from Louisiana’s congressional delegation to provide federal assistance to the farmers.

Typically, Louisiana produces up to 200 million pounds of crawfish annually, injecting $500 million into the state’s economy. But due to the dry conditions of one of the USA’s rainiest states, the yields have suffered.

According to estimates from the Louisiana State University’s Agriculture Center, the crawfish industry stands to lose approximately $140 million. “Our state treasures the crawfish industry not only for its economic value but also for its place in our cultural history,” remarked Mike Strain, the commissioner of the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry.

Crawfish have been commercially harvested in Louisiana since the 1800s and are a seasonal specialty from late winter to spring.

The versatile tail meat of these small, lobster-like creatures is included in various local dishes, from etouffee to gumbos and po-boys. However, the favored preparation is a boil, often accompanied by corn, potatoes, and a blend of spices. These boils become social events, especially during the Carnival season and Lent, given the region’s Catholic heritage.

Nevertheless, this year’s Mardi Gras had less of the festive feasting on crawfish, with shortages and high prices making them too costly for many.

This time last year, boiled crawfish were sold between $3 to $5 per pound. The current rates have rocketed to $10 to $12 per pound, as per reports from The Advocate.

Commissioner Strain highlighted the grim reality to the USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack in a letter: “For the first time in many years, crawfish are simply unavailable due to the sustained drought last year coupled with the freezing temperatures early this year.”