Ongoing dry conditions during the growing season led the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to designate nine Maryland counties as drought disaster areas. Allegany, Carroll, Charles, Frederick, Garrett, Howard, Montgomery, Prince George’s, and Washington counties qualify for assistance through the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA).

Eligible farmers may apply for FSA emergency loans. The agency reviews each application based on the farm’s specific circumstances and needs. Farmers have eight months from the disaster designation date to apply.

The US Drought Monitor shows these counties experienced severe drought conditions for at least eight weeks, with some areas reaching extreme or exceptional levels during the growing season.

For more information on available programs and how to apply, visit the Maryland FSA State Office website.