In the wake of large wildfires in the Gyeongsang region, damage to local specialties such as Uiseong garlic and Cheongsong apples is inevitable. Minister Song Mi-ryeong of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs visited orchards and livestock farms in Uiseong County, North Gyeongsang Province, on the 30th and noted, “We will review support measures for recovery from the damage.”
Minister Song visited an orchard where apple trees and farming machinery were completely destroyed and stated, “We are reviewing comprehensive recovery support measures for North Gyeongsang Province and Uiseong County,” adding, “In Uiseong and Cheongsong, where orchard damage is significant, we will prioritize the removal of burnt trees and the planting of new seedlings through the 'Modernization project for high-quality facilities in orchards.'” He continued, “We plan to ensure a smooth supply of farming machinery, fertilizers, pesticides, and agricultural tools in cooperation with NongHyup and farming machinery/material companies.”
Minister Song also visited a pig farm where most livestock perished due to the complete destruction of the housing facilities. He offered condolences to the farm owner and promised to promptly deploy damage assessment personnel to ensure that disaster insurance payments and restoration costs would be disbursed.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs stated regarding concerns about the supply and demand of agricultural products due to the wildfire, “Although a full assessment of the damage has not yet been completed, we believe the impact on supply and demand will be limited.” The ministry also determined that the damage to garlic and onions, which are cultivated in lowland areas away from the mountains, is minimal.