MADISON, Wis. — Farmers in several Wisconsin counties are able to get emergency loans because of ongoing drought-like conditions.

This week, Gov. Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) said to date, USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack has designated 27 Wisconsin counties as natural disaster areas due to drought. This designation allows the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) to extend emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters.

Emergency loans can be used to meet various recovery needs, including the replacement of essential items such as equipment or livestock, reorganization of a farming operation or to refinance certain debts. The FSA will review the loans based on the extent of losses, security available and repayment ability.

“We’re continuing to do everything we can to support our farmers and their families, and we appreciate the help from our federal partners and USDA Secretary Vilsack to support our state’s farmers and our local communities during the recent drought conditions,” Gov. Evers said. “I encourage eligible Wisconsin producers to access these critical resources that are available through this designation, including assistance like emergency loans.”

Those in the following counties can receive emergency credits: Adams, Columbia, Crawford, Dane, Dodge, Fond du Lac, Grant, Green, Green Lake, Iowa, Jackson, Jefferson, Juneau, Lafayette, La Crosse, Marquette, Monroe, Portage, Richland, Rock, Sauk, Vernon, Walworth, Washington, Waukesha, Waushara and Wood.

“Unpredictable weather impacts the wallet and wellness of producers,” said DATCP Secretary Randy Romanski. “Producers with questions about USDA FSA programs and emergency credit should contact their local FSA office. As always, the Wisconsin Farm Center at DATCP is available to answer questions and connect farmers to resources, including conflict mediation, financial consulting, and the Farmer Wellness Program.”

Application are due in March 2024, with the specific date depending on the county. The USDA listed them here and here.

The Wisconsin Farm Center can be reached at (800) 942-2474 or farmcenter@wisconsin.gov. Producers can find their local FSA office online.