By Scout Nelson
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) designates Pipestone, Rock, and St. Louis counties in Minnesota as natural disaster areas after severe drought conditions affect agricultural production in these regions. The designation provides important financial assistance opportunities for farmers and ranchers who experience drought-related losses.
The disaster declaration allows the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) to offer emergency loans to eligible agricultural producers. These loans help farmers recover from the impact of drought and maintain their farming operations during difficult conditions.
Emergency loans can be used for several recovery purposes. Farmers may use the funds to replace essential equipment, purchase livestock, restore operations, or refinance certain existing debts. Loan applications are reviewed based on the amount of loss, available security, and the producer's ability to repay the loan.
The designation follows drought conditions identified by the U.S. Drought Monitor. The affected counties experience either severe drought conditions for an extended period or reach extreme to exceptional drought levels during the growing season. Such conditions can reduce crop yields, affect livestock production, and create financial challenges for agricultural operations.
The first disaster designation, identified as S6395 Drought Fast Track, began on June 23, 2026. This designation impacts areas in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Under this declaration, St. Louis County is listed as the primary eligible county in Minnesota.
Farmers in neighboring counties may also qualify for assistance. Eligible contiguous counties in Minnesota include Aitkin, Carlton, Itasca, Koochiching, and Lake counties. In Wisconsin, Douglas County is also eligible under the disaster designation. Producers affected by this event have until May 3, 2027, to apply for emergency loans.
The second disaster designation, identified as S6327 Drought Fast Track, began on June 9, 2026. This declaration affected areas in Minnesota, Iowa, and South Dakota. Under this designation, Pipestone County and Rock County are listed as primary eligible counties.
Several neighboring counties also qualify for assistance under this declaration. Eligible Minnesota counties include Lincoln, Lyon, Murray, and Nobles counties. In Iowa, Lyon County qualify for assistance. In South Dakota, eligible counties include Brookings, Minnehaha, and Moody counties.
Farmers impacted by this second disaster designation have until May 10, 2027, to submit emergency loan applications through the Farm Service Agency.
Drought remains one of the most challenging weather-related risks facing agriculture. Extended periods without adequate rainfall can reduce crop growth, limit feed supplies, increase production costs, and place financial pressure on farming families.
The USDA's disaster assistance programs play an important role in helping agricultural producers continue operations following natural disasters. By offering access to emergency credit, the agency helps farmers address immediate needs while planning for future production seasons.
Agricultural producers in the designated counties are encouraged to contact their local Farm Service Agency office to learn more about eligibility requirements, application procedures, and available assistance programs. Timely access to disaster support can help farms manage losses and strengthen recovery efforts following severe drought conditions.
Photo Credit usda
Categories: Minnesota, Government & Policy, Weather