Those affected by the severe drought conditions this year may be eligible to receive assistance from a pot of $10 million.

The legislature allocated the funds to create the West Virginia Department of Agriculture's Drought Recovery Program.

“West Virginia’s farmers are facing a crisis unlike any we’ve seen in decades. As drought conditions continue to impact our farmers, this support is crucial to help them weather the storm, so they can continue their operations,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt.

The funding can be used to restore drought-damaged pastures, assist with water resources, and address other pressing drought-related expenses.

Those eligible to receive recovery assistance are livestock farmers who are already enrolled in the USDA-Farm Service Agency Livestock Forage Disaster Program.

These farmers can now sign up for the drought recovery program in person at their local conservation districts until Jan. 30.

Applicants for funding must have a physical copy of the applicant’s USDA-FSA 2024 LFP Estimated Calculated Payment Report which must include an application number and a total gross LFP payment, a completed W-9 form, a completed “Sign Up, Release and Disclaimer Application” form.

Following the end of the enrollment period, the WVDA will review applications and determine funding awards.

Farmers can contact their local conservation district for assistance prior to applying in person.

Source - https://www.wvnews.com