Washington County Farmers: Federal Drought Disaster Loans Available

Washington County farmers affected by drought can now apply for emergency federal loans through the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The USDA designated Washington County and eight other Maryland jurisdictions as disaster areas on April 28 based on drought conditions recorded during the growing season.

The Farm Service Agency will provide emergency loans to help producers replace essential equipment or livestock, reorganize operations, or refinance certain debts. The agency will evaluate applications based on the extent of losses, available collateral, and ability to repay.

Farmers in contiguous counties in Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia also qualify for assistance.

Producers must submit applications by December 10, 2026. They can start the process at Farmers.gov, use the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool, or contact their local USDA Farm Service Agency Service Center.

For information, contact the Washington County Office of Emergency Management at 240-313-2380 or [email protected].