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Governor Kathy Hochul has requested a disaster declaration from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for farms in Oneida, Oswego, and Madison counties following severe winter weather. This declaration would allow affected farms to apply for low-interest emergency loans through the USDA.
The region experienced extreme winter conditions from January 6 to February 25, with heavy winds and over 180 inches of snow, leading to significant structural damage and livestock loss. More than 60 agricultural locations sustained an estimated $15 to $20 million in damages. According to WSYR-TV, the disaster designation would make farms in these counties eligible for emergency loans from the Farm Service Agency (FSA).
Governor Hochul emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "This damage has upended the futures of farms as they face tens of millions of dollars in economic impact." She urged the USDA to swiftly declare these counties as disaster areas to help farmers move forward. The New York State Agriculture Commissioner, Richard A. Ball, noted the impact on infrastructure and livestock, which complicates preparations for the upcoming planting season.
Farmers in eligible counties will have eight months from the disaster declaration date to apply for relief programs, as reported by Spectrum News. Governor Hochul also requested that any disaster assistance appropriated by Congress be made available to assist the impacted farmers.
The USDA's decision on the disaster declaration will be crucial for the recovery of these farms, which are vital to the local economy.