Local farmers can apply for help
The federal government has designated Oswego and Onondaga counties as part of a natural disaster area due to the summer’s drought. The designation will make farm operators eligible for assistance from the Farm Service Agency (FSA) if certain requirements are met, including low-interest loans.
Assemblyman Will Barclay (R,C,I—Pulaski) said he is pleased with the designation.
“So many farmers in the region have been impacted by the drought this year. The hot, dry temperatures have made the growing season especially difficult and many have experienced crop loss and other problems,” Barclay said. “I am pleased the federal government has recognized this drought as a disaster so farmers can apply for some assistance.”
It is recommended that farmers reach out to the local FSA offices to learn more and to seek guidance. Oswego County resident farmers should call 963-7283 and Onondaga County farmers should call 677-3552. Farmers have eight months from the date of the disaster to apply for emergency loans.
In total, 24 counties in New York were designated as a natural disaster due to the drought. Though Jefferson County is not currently listed as part of the drought disaster area, Barclay and Sen. Patty Ritchie are advocating for its inclusion.
