ANNAPOLIS, MD - Governor Wes Moore today announced the availability of low-interest federal financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to assist Maryland farmers in central and western Maryland whose crops are experiencing drought conditions. U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack made the designation following a summer that saw little to no rain in many regions of the state-including in Allegany, Carroll, Frederick, Garrett, Howard, Montgomery and Washington counties, which are all eligible for assistance. 

“Maryland’s agricultural industry is one of our top economic drivers and supporting our farmers is critical,” said Governor Moore. “We’re grateful for the partnership we share with USDA in enabling access to low cost loans that will help offset the cost of lost crops and provide another layer of assistance during tough growing seasons.”  

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor map, Allegany, Washington and Garrett counties were among the hardest hit. 

Emergency loans may be used to meet recovery needs, including replacement of essentials like equipment or livestock, reorganization of a farming operation, or refinancing certain debts. Multiple Farm Service Agency programs are eligible, including the Livestock Forage Disaster Program; Emergency Assistance for Livestock Program; Livestock Indemnity Program; Honeybees and Farm Raised Fish Program; Livestock Indemnity Program; Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance; the Emergency Conservation Program; and the Tree Assistance Program. 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Services Agency will review the loans based on the extent of losses, security available, and repayment ability. 

“Though we never want to see farmers go through hardships such as a drought, FSA is fortunate to have drought assistance programs available,” said Farm Services Agency State Executive Director John Sullivan. “We encourage producers to reach out to one of our county service centers for assistance.” 

“USDA’s federal programs are beneficial to Maryland farmers who are facing challenging financial situations,” said Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks. “I encourage those who are affected by drought conditions to explore the many options available to help.” 

More information about how to apply is available through local county service centers. A list of service centers and locations is available at offices.usda.gov or through the Farm Service Agency’s disaster assistance tools at farmers.gov.