By Scout Nelson
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has designated four Minnesota counties as natural disaster areas due to severe drought conditions during the 2026 growing season. The designation allows eligible producers to access emergency assistance through the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA).
The declaration applies to Cook, Hennepin, Lake, and Ramsey counties. Federal officials determined that drought conditions in these areas met the eligibility requirements established by the U.S. Drought Monitor.
As a result of the designation, qualifying farmers and ranchers may apply for emergency loans through the USDA Farm Service Agency. The assistance is intended to help producers recover from production and financial losses caused by drought.
Emergency loan funds can be used to replace essential equipment, purchase livestock, restore farming operations, or refinance certain debts. Applications are reviewed based on the extent of losses, available collateral, and repayment ability.
The designation falls under Fast-Track Drought Disaster Designation S6416, which began on July 21, 2026. The declaration was issued after drought conditions reached federally recognized thresholds.
Eligible counties experienced either D2 (Severe Drought) conditions for at least eight consecutive weeks or D3 (Extreme Drought) or D4 (Exceptional Drought) conditions during the growing season. These drought levels can significantly impact crop production, livestock operations, and farm income.
Several neighboring counties are also eligible for assistance due to their proximity to the disaster area. These counties include Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Scott, Sherburne, St. Louis, Washington, and Wright.
Farmers and ranchers have until May 24, 2027, to apply for emergency loan assistance. Producers are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center to learn more about eligibility requirements and available support programs.
Additional disaster assistance resources are available through Farmers.gov. Tools such as the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool, Disaster Assistance-at-a-Glance Fact Sheet, and Loan Assistance Tool can help producers identify suitable recovery options.
The designation highlights the challenges drought can create for agricultural operations across Minnesota. Through emergency credit and recovery programs, the USDA aims to help affected producers recover and prepare for future growing seasons.
Photo Credit: usda-farm-service-agency
Categories: Minnesota, Crops, Government & Policy