County part of federal drought disaster declaration

Farmers affected by dry conditions in 2023 can now receive aid to offset losses, after a federal declaration announced on Monday, March 26.  

The United States Department of Agriculture designated the entire state of Mississippi, all 82 counties, as a drought disaster area, due to the drought conditions from 2023.  

The disaster designation makes farm operators in DeSoto County, and across the state, eligible for consideration for Federal Aid that assists with material losses caused by the drought. This includes: dead crops, reduced yields, or heightened costs to maintain those plants.

The Farm Service Agency Emergency Local Assistance is in the form of loans. The number to call is (662) 560-9001, Extension 2. Farmers have eight months to apply for assistance.

More than 400,000 residents were affected by the drought conditions in the Magnolia State last year, according to estimates. 

More information on the Emergency Loan Program is found at the following website: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/farm-loan-programs/emergency-farm-loans/index 

View the latest drought monitor at this website: https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/