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Columbus County is under a natural disaster declaration, the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture said this morning.
County spokesperson Amanda Prince announced the disaster declaration just after noon. The declaration became effective July 15. Farmers who qualify may receive loans for production losses, according to a press release.
Agriculture Secretary Thomas J. Vilsack made the declaration based on losses recorded up through July 9. As contiguous counties, Bladen, Robeson, Pender, and Brunswick farmers are eligible to apply for assistance through the Farm Services Agency Emergency Loan Program.
The designation number covering the disaster declaration is S-5715. Loan applications will be accepted through March 17, 2025. Emergency loans will be made under FSA Instructions in Handbook 3-FLP, Emergency Designation S-5715.
For more information contact your FSA agent or Cooperative Extension.