By Jamie Martin
Utah farmers and ranchers are facing serious drought conditions that are impacting crops, livestock, and water supply. In response, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is offering several programs to support recovery and reduce future risks.
“We know current drought conditions are adversely impacting crops, land, water supplies and livestock, creating financial and emotional strain for the farmers and ranchers we serve,” said Farm Production and Conservation Under Secretary Richard Fordyce.
Fordyce added, "I encourage producers to stay in close contact with their local USDA Service Center to report losses and damages and learn more about the many program options we have available to assist them in building drought resiliency and navigating drought recovery.”
The Livestock Forage Disaster Program provides financial help for producers who experience grazing losses on eligible land. Farmers must report acreage and grazing losses and meet eligibility conditions to receive support.
The Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm Raised Fish Program helps cover additional costs such as transporting water, feed, and livestock. It also supports beekeepers affected by reduced natural feed.
Farmers growing trees, bushes, and vines may benefit from the Tree Assistance Program, which offers cost sharing for replanting and rehabilitation. In addition, USDA offers low interest in emergency loans and other financing options to help producers recover losses and maintain operations.
Risk management is also an important step. Producers enrolled in crop insurance or other coverage programs must report damages within required timeframes to receive compensation.
Conservation programs provide long-term support. Emergency conservation assistance helps improve water access and irrigation systems, while other programs encourage soil health improvements to reduce drought impact.
The U.S. Drought Monitor is used to assess drought severity and determine eligibility for assistance programs. Farmers are encouraged to work closely with local USDA offices to report losses, access aid, and plan for better resilience in the future.
More information about USDA disaster assistance can be found on farmers.gov.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National