Rains bring relief; farmers can get loans

Last week's rain helped to ease drought conditions in Franklin County. The much-needed precipitation also caused several burn bans to be lifted. However, farmers will be feeling the effects of the dry summer for months to come, causing the government to declare Franklin County a Drought Disaster Area making farmers here eligible for emergency loans.

Rains came

The Greencastle-Antrim area received more than three inches of rain last week. Burn bans imposed by the Antrim Township and Franklin County were lifted by mid-week. Aburn ban in Greencastle had previously expired.

"Recent rains and the greening of the underbrush have negated the need for the ban," according to a county news release.

"However, we urge all citizens to remain vigilant and use common sense when burning. The conditions could change and safety of lives and property are of the highest importance," stated G. Warren Elliott, commissioners chairman.

Franklin County was declared a drought watch area by the governor on Aug. 13. The declaration urges conservation of ground water supplies for the remainder of summer and fall.

The United States Department of Agriculture has designated Franklin County as drought disaster areas.

The designation, which was made official on Aug. 21 will allow farmers affected by severe dry weather to receive low interest emergency loans through the USDA's Farm Service Agency to recover their actual losses.

"The extreme heat and dry weather we experienced in June and July have put an amazing amount of strain on our farmers," said Rep. Bill Shuster "Secretary Johanns' declaration will provide a much needed way for them to recoup their losses and recover from the drought."

Relief details

Farmers will have eight months from the date of the disaster declaration to apply for the emergency FSA loans. It is important to note that the FSA will consider each loan on its own merits. Loans will be considered after taking into account the extent of losses, security available and a farmer's ability to repay the loans.

Farmers interested in taking advantage of the FSA emergency loans are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center for further information on eligibility requirements and application procedures for these and other programs. Additional information is also available online at http://disaster.fsa.usda.gov

"I encourage all of the farmers affected by the drought to contact their local service centers as soon as possible. In addition, I am ready to assist anyone who may need additional information or help with their loan application," Shuster added.

"Farmers can contact my district office in Hollidaysburg toll-free at 1-800-854-3035."