By Andi Anderson
As Southeastern Ohio and West Virginia endure record-breaking dry conditions, large portions of the region have been classified as experiencing severe drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
In response, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has declared 22 counties in Ohio as primary natural disaster areas, with an additional 25 counties across Ohio and West Virginia designated as contiguous disaster areas. These classifications allow farmers in these regions to access drought assistance through the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA).
The USDA’s drought relief programs are available to help agricultural producers facing significant crop losses and other drought-related challenges.
Farmers are encouraged to contact their local FSA office for detailed information on available programs, including financial assistance and resources for managing drought impacts.
Additionally, a webinar hosted by U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown will be held on Thursday, September 12, at 12 PM. The webinar will cover how farmers can apply for USDA resources and assistance.
Eligible Counties
Primary counties in Ohio eligible for drought assistance include Athens, Belmont, Fairfield, Fayette, Gallia, Guernsey, Harrison, Highland, Hocking, Jackson, Jefferson, Madison, Monroe, Morgan, Muskingum, Noble, Perry, Pickaway, Pike, Ross, Vinton, and Washington counties.
Contiguous counties in Ohio eligible for assistance are Adams, Brown, Carroll, Champaign, Clark, Clinton, Columbiana, Coshocton, Franklin, Greene, Lawrence, Licking, Meigs, Scioto, Tuscarawas, and Union counties.
In West Virginia, eligible contiguous counties include Brooke, Cabell, Hancock, Marshall, Mason, Ohio, Pleasants, Tyler, Wetzel, and Wood counties.
Farmers in these designated areas are encouraged to take advantage of the drought resources available to them to help mitigate the effects of this challenging summer season.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zhuda
Categories: Ohio, General