USDA expands drought assistance to 22 states
—From the USDA
The Agriculture Department has announced $11.8 million in additional financial and technical assistance to help crop and livestock producers in 22 states, including Indiana, apply conservation practices that reduce the impacts of drought and improve soil health and productivity.
Indiana Natural Resources Conservation Service was one of those named to receive additional funding. After the announcement of special funding for drought-stricken farmers in August, Indiana NRCS received over 1,200 applications from producers requesting funds totaling over $22 million, much more than the $5 million received.
The Sept. 19 announcement will add an additional $350,000 to Indiana’s funding, allowing NRCS to address some of the backlog in applications from the August announcement. Funding from NRCS targets states that are experiencing either exceptional or extreme drought conditions. NRCS has developed drought resources, including fact sheets, program guidance, links to maps and other information, located on the NRCS drought website at www.in.nrcs.usda.gov/drought.html. Producers can also visit their local USDA-NRCS field office to talk with staff. Visit www.in.nrcs.usda.gov/contact/directory/field_offices.html to find the nearest USDA Service Center.