Drought disaster declared in Swain and Jackson
Swain and Jackson counties have been designated as primary natural disaster areas due to losses from the ongoing drought.
In addition to the U.S. Department of Agriculture designation, the Fast Track drought monitor has triggered the Livestock Forage Program, so all livestock producers in Swain and Macon counties should contact their local Farm Service Agency Office to apply for assistance on grazing losses. Producers who have lost livestock due to the ongoing fires should also contact the FSA to apply for the Livestock Indemnity Program. Applications are open until Jan. 30, 2017.
Farmers and ranchers in counties contiguous to Swain and Jackson also qualify for disaster assistance. These producers have eight months from the time of disaster declaration to apply for loans to help cover part of their losses.
There are also FSA assistance programs available that do not require a disaster declaration. Further information is available to local USDA Service Centers.
