New York farmers and producers who lost property due to recent natural disasters may be eligible for USDA physical loss loans.

The Farm Service Agency is offering low-interest loans for losses caused by two separate disaster events. Approval is limited to applicants who suffered severe physical losses, such as the loss of buildings or livestock.

Damages from May 15
Physical loss loans are available to eligible agricultural producers in Columbia and Dutchess counties in who incurred losses due to excessive strong winds, hail, lightning and a tornado that occurred on May 15.

Producers in the contiguous counties of Greene, Orange, Putnam, Rensselaer and Ulster in New York; Fairfield and Litchfield counties in Connecticut; and Berkshire County in Massachusetts are also eligible to apply for emergency loans.

Damages from May 4
Physical loss loans are available to eligible agricultural producers in Washington County, New York, who incurred losses due to excessive strong winds that occurred on May 4.

Producers in the contiguous counties of Essex, Rensselaer, Saratoga and Warren in New York, and Addison, Bennington and Rutland counties in Vermont are also eligible to apply for emergency loans.

Physical loss loans can help producers repair or replace damaged or destroyed physical property essential to the success of the farm operation, including livestock losses. Examples of property commonly affected include essential farm buildings, fixtures to real estate, equipment, livestock, perennial crops, fruit and nut bearing trees, and harvested or stored crops and hay.

For more information on FSA disaster assistance programs or to find your local USDA service center, visit farmers.gov.

Source: USDA Farm Service Agency