Prairie State Wire

USDA Secretary Thomas J. Vilsack has declared a disaster for Alexander and Union Counties in Illinois following the damage caused by Hurricane Helene on September 28 and 29, 2024. The declaration is due to excessive rainfall and high winds that affected these areas.

These counties are adjacent to primary designation counties in Missouri, making them eligible for similar assistance. Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, stated, "A USDA disaster designation makes emergency loans and other disaster recovery support available to Illinois farmers impacted by the extreme weather." He advised that "emergency loan applications must be received within eight months from the date of the declaration."

The USDA's Farm Service Agency (FSA) will evaluate each emergency loan application based on production losses and the applicant's ability to repay. Farmers in affected areas should reach out to their local USDA Service Center for inquiries or to file a Notice of Loss.