Governor Urges USDA Help for Damaged Farms

By Blake Jackson

Governor Kathy Hochul has formally requested a USDA disaster declaration for farms in Oneida, Lewis, Herkimer, Oswego, and Madison counties following significant damage caused by severe winter weather. Between $15 million and $20 million in damages were reported due to heavy snow, ice, and strong winds earlier this year. If approved, the declaration would allow farmers in these counties to apply for low-interest emergency loans through the USDA.

“Severe weather earlier this year wreaked nearly unprecedented damage on farms across Northern and Central New York, and I’m requesting a USDA disaster declaration to help bring relief to our agricultural communities,” said Hochul. “This damage has upended the futures of farms as they face tens of millions of dollars in economic impact. I urge the USDA to take swift action to declare these counties a disaster area and help our farmers get the assistance they need to move forward.”

From January 6 to February 25, 2025, the region experienced severe weather, with over 180 inches of snow and extended freezing temperatures. The cold conditions prevented snowmelt, leading to dangerous ice buildup on farms. This ice and snow accumulation caused structural damage, including collapsed barns, destroyed equipment storage, and losses in livestock.

Richard A. Ball, the New York State Agriculture Commissioner, visited Oneida County farms earlier this month, noting the long-term recovery challenges. “Shortly after the last round of heavy snow and ice, I was able to visit a number of farms in Oneida County and see firsthand the damage that these farms sustained,” said Ball. “Typically, we are concerned about crop loss when we face severe weather, but this winter storm impacted infrastructure and livestock that will make it extremely difficult to look toward this year’s planting season. I am thankful to the Governor for this request and appreciate the USDA’s consideration to move ahead with a disaster declaration to provide some financial relief to area farmers.”

The USDA disaster declaration process may also unlock additional support programs, and Governor Hochul has urged Congress to approve further aid. If the declaration is granted, farmers will have eight months to apply for financial assistance to help them recover from the storm’s devastating impact.

Photo Credit: usda