‘Extreme drought’ in Hardin County triggers disaster assistance program

Ranchers and livestock producers can apply for assistance from the Livestock Forage Disaster Program, the USDA Farm Service Agency in Hardin County announced Tuesday.

“Drought conditions in Hardin County have triggered availability” of the program, said county Executive Director Andy Lewis. “LFP provides compensation to producers who have suffered grazing losses due to drought.”

Affected producers can contact the local office at 731-925-3831 for an appointment and to learn what records are needed to apply for assistance.

Lewis said the program covers full season improved pasture. For losses due to drought, an eligible livestock producers must own or lease grazing or pastureland in the county meeting drought intensity criteria rated by the U.S. Drought Monitor, which on Tuesday classified Hardin County as in extreme drought.