New York farmers get emergency loans following July storm

By Blake Jackson

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that four New York counties impacted by severe storms in July have been designated primary natural disaster areas by the USDA. This designation makes farmers in Clinton, Franklin, Lewis, and Onondaga counties eligible for emergency loans from the Farm Service Agency.

The storm brought record rainfall, causing significant crop losses and damage to agricultural land. To help farmers recover, the USDA has also declared an additional 10 counties contiguous disaster areas, making them eligible for assistance as well.

Farmers will have eight months to apply for emergency loans, which are available through their local FSA office. New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard Ball encouraged farmers to take advantage of this assistance and continue reporting losses to minimize the long-term impact of the storm.

Local officials expressed their gratitude for the federal assistance, acknowledging the importance of supporting the agricultural community during this challenging time. County leaders like Mark Henry and Edward Lockwood highlighted the economic significance of agriculture and emphasized the need for assistance to help farmers recover from their losses.

Governor Hochul's announcement builds upon her administration's commitment to addressing the impacts of climate change on New York State. The state offers various programs to support farmers, including the Climate Resilient Farming Grant Program, the Agricultural Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control program, and the Agricultural Environmental Management framework. These initiatives provide essential solutions for combating climate change and fostering the long-term sustainability of New York's agricultural sector.

This designation and the availability of emergency loans offer crucial support to farmers in the affected counties, allowing them to rebuild and recover from the July storm.

Photo Credit: farm-bureau