Loans for drought loss for South Texas farmers and ranchers

South Texas farmers and ranchers who have suffered drought loss in 2013 are encouraged to apply now for disaster emergency loans. Farmers and ranchers in Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr, Willacy and Zapata counties are eligible for these loans.

According to AgriLife Today, producers who have lost at least 30 percent of their production or suffered production losses caused by drought between April 1, 2013 and Oct. 31, 2013, are eligible for emergency loans from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA).

The maximum amount of direct emergency loans can be equal to the losses, minus proceeds from crop insurance and/or hazard insurance. The deadline to apply is Dec. 23, but FSA advises farmers to apply early.

For more information, or to set up an appointment for assistance in applying for a loan, contact Vidal Saenz at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service office at 956-383-1026.