By Blake Jackson
Farmers in several Kentucky counties affected by severe drought conditions are now eligible for emergency assistance through the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) following a Secretarial natural disaster designation.
The designation makes emergency loans available to agricultural producers who experienced losses due to drought. These loans are intended to help farmers recover by covering a variety of needs, including replacing damaged or lost equipment and livestock, restructuring farm operations, and refinancing certain existing debts.
The disaster declaration was issued under the USDA’s fast-track drought process after affected counties met qualifying drought intensity levels identified by the U.S. Drought Monitor.
Eligible areas experienced either severe drought conditions for at least eight consecutive weeks or extreme to exceptional drought levels during the growing season.
Primary eligible counties include Barren, Butler, Casey, Garrard, Lincoln, Monroe, Ohio, Pulaski, Rockcastle, and Warren. In addition, producers in several neighboring counties may also qualify for assistance.
Farmers seeking support are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center to file a Notice of Loss, learn about available programs, and determine their eligibility.
Applications for emergency loan assistance must be submitted by January 19, 2027.
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Categories: Kentucky, General, Government & Policy