Loudoun Farmers Eligible For Federal Drought Aid

LOUDOUN COUNTY, VA — Loudoun farmers are dealing with drought conditions and near-record low water indicators, according to the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. Local farmers impacted by the drought are eligible for federal aid from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farm Service Agency.

Loudoun is one of six Virginia counties named drought designation areas. The designation allows local farmers to apply for emergency loans and assistance from the Farm Service Agency.

Farmers have eight months to apply for assistance, Loudoun County officials said. Applications can be submitted through the Virginia State Office of the Farm Service Agency, which operates a website and an office in Warrenton.

According to the most recent report from the U.S. Drought Monitor, all of Loudoun County is experiencing varying degrees of drought conditions. About 55 percent of the county, including western areas, is experiencing "severe drought."

In a severe drought, residents can expect "likely loss" of crops and pastures, common water shortages, and possible water restrictions, according to the National Integrated Drought Information System.

In a news release, Loudoun County officials asked residents to be mindful of their water consumption.

"Officials encourage all residents to protect water supplies by minimizing non-essential water use through voluntary conservation actions, such as limiting the length of showers, using an automatic dishwasher only when it’s a full load and checking pipes for leaks," Loudoun officials wrote in a news release.

More information about drought assistance for farmers is available online.