Drought disaster assistance approved for southern Illinois | Home & Garden

Agriculture producers in 27 southern Illinois counties have been approved for emergency Conservation Reserve Program  haying and grazing due to the extreme drought. In addition, small businesses, agricultural cooperatives and private non-profit organizations in four of his counties are eligible for federal economic injury disaster loans through the U.S. Small Business Administration.

The CRP haying authorization from the U.S. Department of Agriculture will become effective August 2, after the wildlife nesting and brood rearing season in Illinois, and will end August 31. Emergency grazing is to be allowed between August 2 and September 30.

“Those who raise crops and livestock have been devastated by this incredible heat wave and lack of rain,” said Congressman John Shimkus. “These emergency measures may help them avoid selling at a loss.”

Before haying or grazing, CRP participants must request approval at their county Farm Service Agency office, where more details are available.

Eligible counties either completely or partially located in the 19th Congressional District are: Bond, Christian, Clay, Clinton, Edwards, Effingham, Fayette, Gallatin, Greene, Hamilton, Hardin, Jasper, Jefferson, Jersey, Johnson, Madison, Marion, Massac, Montgomery, Pope, Richland, Saline, Sangamon, Shelby, Wayne, White, and Williamson.

SBA federal economic injury disaster loans of up to $2 million are available in the 19th district counties of Gallatin, Lawrence, Wabash and White.