Following torrential rains, flash floods, high winds and tornados that hit parts of the Minnesota since June 9 and through the July 4 holiday, Gov. Mark Dayton signed an emergency order proclaiming a state of peacetime emergency in 36 counties impacted by the severe weather.

Included in the governor’s executive order are: Aitkin, Becker, Beltrami, Blue Earth, Brown, Carlton, Cass, Clearwater, Cottonwood, Faribault, Fillmore, Freeborn, Jackson, Kittson, Lake, Lyon, Mahnomen, Martin, Mille Lacs, Mower, Murray, Nicollet, Nobles, Pine, Pipestone, Polk, Red Lake, Redwood, Renville, Rock, Sibley, Stearns, Stevens, St. Louis, Waseca, and Watonwan counties, and the Red Lake Nation.

In addition to declaring a state of peacetime emergency in these areas, the governor’s order directs the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, along with all other state agencies, to continue providing assistance and support to affected communities.

On July 6, Dayton, Sen. Tina Smith and Rep. Collin Peterson visited three communities in southwestern Minnesota to assess damage caused by recent severe weather. Visits included stops in Slayton, Walnut Grove and Balaton, plus surrounding communities.

The three were joined by Dave Frederickson, Minnesota Department of Agriculture commissioner; Joe Kelly, Homeland Security and Emergency Management director; and emergency management personnel, local community members and other officials.

Farmers affected by flooding can apply to the 0% Disaster Loan Program offered by the Minnesota Rural Finance Authority. The program helps farmers cover flood cleanup, repair and replacement costs not covered by insurance.

The loans can be used to help clean up farm operations; repair or replace farm structures; and replace seed, other crop inputs, feed and livestock. The loan may also be used to repair and restore farm real estate that was damaged by flooding.

As with other RFA loans, the 0% Disaster Loan Program will be available for farmers through their existing agricultural lenders for financing these repairs. The MRFA participation is limited to 45% of the principal amount, up to a maximum of $200,000.

Interested borrowers should contact their lender or call the RFA at 651-201-6004. More information is also available on the RFA website at mda.state.mn.us/agfinance.

Also on MDA’s website, there is additional information about flood recovery.

Flood Recovery Financial Assistance information is available in a one-page handout.

The Farm Advocate and Minnesota Farmers Assistance Network programs offer counseling and service referrals for those suffering a loss. Farm advocates include Jan Boll, 218-268-4472; or Bruce Lubitz 218-346-4866. MFAN’s number is 877-898-MFAN (6326).

Contact your local Farm Service Agency for information on federal disaster assistance programs.

The University of Minnesota Extension also has a website that lists various sources of information pertaining to flooding.

Sources: Governor’s office, MDA, U-M Extension