By Blake Jackson
Pennsylvania farmers affected by severe drought may now have access to emergency financial assistance through the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA). A recent natural disaster designation enables eligible producers to apply for emergency loans to help recover from drought-related losses and restore their farming operations.
The assistance can support the replacement of critical equipment or livestock, restructuring of farm operations, and, in certain circumstances, refinancing eligible debts. FSA will evaluate applications by considering the producer’s documented losses, available collateral, and ability to repay the loan.
Bucks, Delaware, and Lehigh counties are identified as primary areas eligible for assistance. Producers in Berks, Carbon, Chester, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia, and Schuylkill counties may also qualify under the contiguous county provisions.
The designation is based on drought conditions documented by the U.S. Drought Monitor, including prolonged severe drought or periods of extreme or exceptional drought during the growing season.
The application deadline is April 13, 2027. Farmers seeking assistance should contact their local USDA Service Center.
Photo Credit: usda-farm-service-agency
Categories: Pennsylvania, Government & Policy