USDA Drought Disaster Designations: Emergency Loan Eligibility in Nine Western and Northern States

On September 11, 2026, the USDA Farm Service Agency issued three new drought disaster designations that create Emergency Loan eligibility for affected producers. These designations newly establish eligibility for federal emergency credit in the specified counties.

Nevada / California / Arizona: Clark County, Nevada

Clark County, Nevada is now a primary disaster county because of qualifying extreme drought. Contiguous eligibility extends to Nye and Lincoln counties, Nevada; Inyo and San Bernardino counties, California; and Mohave County, Arizona.

Idaho / Utah / Wyoming: Bear Lake County, Idaho

Bear Lake County, Idaho is now a primary drought disaster area. Contiguous eligibility extends to Caribou and Franklin counties, Idaho; Cache and Rich counties, Utah; and Lincoln County, Wyoming.

South Dakota / Montana / North Dakota / Wyoming

USDA also issued new drought designations covering Butte, Corson, Harding, Perkins, and Ziebach counties in South Dakota, with contiguous eligibility extending to additional counties in South Dakota, Montana, North Dakota, and Wyoming.

Who may be affected

Agricultural producers and landowners in the designated primary and contiguous counties who suffered qualifying drought-related production or physical losses.

What action may be needed

Affected producers should document drought-related production or physical losses, contact their local FSA office or USDA Service Center, and complete an Emergency Loan application if eligible. Applications are due May 3, 2027.

Where should the information be verified?

Landowners and producers should verify county eligibility, program requirements, and deadlines directly with the USDA Farm Service Agency.