As a result of the rapid wildfires and power-cutting thunderstorms affecting various regions of Montana, the U.S. Department of Agriculture declared on July 25 that farmers in specific counties are eligible for emergency loans to cover losses from this year’s drought.
Farmers in Missoula, Flathead, Granite, Lake, Mineral, Powell, Ravalli, and Sanders Counties are eligible to apply, according to the USDA. On August 9, 11 contiguous counties were added by the USDA as potential recipients of assistance.
These loans can be used by producers to cover drought-related losses such as production, equipment, livestock, reorganization of farming operations, or debt refinancing, states the USDA.
Each of these counties has been classified as experiencing exceptional drought, extreme drought, or severe drought for eight consecutive weeks, with Missoula County being highlighted as the primary area in need.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, Powell County is currently facing exceptional drought conditions, which are rated as the most severe.
Courtesy of U.S. Drought Monitor
The deadline to apply is March 17, 2025.
