By Blake Jackson
Farmers and producers in Kentucky impacted by the severe weather earlier this year are now eligible for emergency assistance through a Presidential disaster declaration.
This designation, known as M4860 Amendment 9, enables the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) to provide emergency loans to help agricultural operations recover from the effects of natural disasters that occurred between February 14 and March 7, 2025.
The declared disaster includes damage from severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides, and mudslides.
Emergency loans are available to assist with various recovery efforts, such as replacing essential equipment or livestock, reorganizing farm operations, or refinancing certain debts.
The FSA will evaluate loan applications by considering the applicant's loss severity, the security available, and the ability to repay.
These loans are intended to support farmers in rebuilding and continuing their operations after disaster-related setbacks.
In Kentucky, Laurel and McCreary counties are designated as primary disaster areas. Additionally, the following contiguous counties are also eligible: Clay, Jackson, Knox, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Wayne, and Whitley.
The deadline to apply for these emergency loans is December 9, 2025. Producers in the affected regions are encouraged to contact their local FSA office to learn more about eligibility and begin the application process for financial recovery support.
Photo Credit: usda-farm-service-agency
Categories: Kentucky, Government & Policy