USDA designates 13 more counties as disasters due to drought

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Gov. Jim Pillen announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has designated more Nebraska counties as disasters.

In May, the USDA  declared disaster for 13 counties that were impacted by the drought. As the drought continues to grow, the USDA designated 13 more counties.

Lancaster and Saline are the two primary counties and Butler, Cass, Fillmore, Gage, Jefferson, Johnson, Otoe, Saunders, Seward, Thayer and York are the contiguous counties.

The new designated counties will now be eligible for loan assistance through the Farm Service Agency (FSA).

Pillen said he appreciates the attention to Nebraskans in need.

“This most recent secretarial disaster designation from Sec. Brooke Rollins will now increase the number of counties that can access to emergency loans,” Pillen said.  I appreciate Sec. Rollins, her constant attention to the needs of or farmers and ag producers who might require this assistance as a result of the drought impact during this growing season.”