Southeastern Arizona farmers and ranchers are facing another punishing drought season, and Congressman Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) wants to make sure they know help is available.
Ciscomani is encouraging agricultural producers in Arizona's Sixth Congressional District to take advantage of a federal emergency loan program after the U.S. Department of Agriculture designated several Arizona counties, including Graham, Pima, and Pinal, as primary natural disaster areas due to drought conditions.
The designation unlocks access to the USDA's Farm Service Agency emergency loan program, which provides critical financial assistance to producers recovering from natural disasters.
"Southeastern Arizona is home to many farmers and ranchers who keep our agriculture industry strong," Ciscomani said. "I encourage all farmers and ranchers in Arizona's Sixth Congressional District who are dealing with the consequences of severe drought to look into what federal resources are available. That's what this USDA program is all about."
The emergency loans can be used for a range of recovery needs, from replacing livestock and equipment to restructuring farming operations and refinancing existing debts.
The Farm Service Agency reviews applications based on the producer's losses, available collateral, and ability to repay.
Problems Beyond
Beyond emergency loans, the USDA offers several additional programs that drought-affected Arizona producers may qualify for.
The Livestock Forage Disaster Program provides compensation for grazing losses caused by drought or fire, while the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish program covers losses from adverse weather conditions not addressed by other programs.
Therefore, farmers who have suffered crop losses may also be eligible for the Noninsured Disaster Assistance Program, and those with existing USDA loans may be able to defer payments under the Disaster Set-Aside Program.
Now Ciscomani describes the disaster designation as more than a bureaucratic milestone; it's a direct lifeline for the rural communities that form the backbone of southeastern Arizona's economy.
"Graham, Pima, and Pinal counties being included in this program will directly support the farmers and ranchers who keep our district strong," he said.
Producers interested in applying can visit farmers.gov for a full list of available programs and eligibility requirements. The Farm Service Agency reviews applications on a rolling basis.
