May 19th, 2009
Hays County declared disaster area because of drought, heat, fires

STAFF REPORT

Hays County farmers and ranchers could be eligible for low-interest loans through the U.S. Agriculture department’s Farm Services Agency.

Officials were notified today that the county received designation as a primary natural disaster area for damages and losses caused by drought, above-normal temperatures and resulting wildfires.

“I’m encouraging our agricultural producers to take advantage of these loans to help re-establish their livelihoods, since even with recent rains our drought situation is extreme and indications are it will continue,” said County Judge Elizabeth Sumter, who requested the declaration March 2 after reports showed that some crops in Hays County were total losses and that ranchers were selling off livestock due to lack of water and feed.

The agency will consider each loan application on its own merit, taking into account the extent of losses, available security and repayment ability. The FSA will take applications through Dec. 28, 2009.

For information about loan applications, see the FSA’s emergency loan information or contact the FSA’s area farm loan manager, Raecene Randall, at the FSA Office at 3251 N. Hwy. 123 Bypass, Seguin, (830) 379-0932.