Farmers Could Be Eligible For Low Interest Loans If They Suffered Weather Damage

Due to the harsh winter, many buildings on farms have suffered major damage. Rep. John Poston (R-Lake Shore) is reminding local farmers that the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and the Rural Finance Authority are available to provide services and programs to assist with clean-up.

“Farms around the state have suffered building collapses as heavy snow and high winds have swept across Minnesota. In fact, as of late last week, nearly 50 agricultural buildings had suffered roof collapse, with most of those being dairy structures,” said Rep. Poston. “I want to remind folks that my office, the Department of Agriculture, and the Rural Finance Authority are available to assist farmers that have suffered damage as a result of inclement weather.”

Last week, the Minnesota House of Representatives unanimously approved legislation making disaster recovery loans available to farmers whose barns have recently collapsed under the weight of heavy snow, sleet, or ice.

These low interest loans are available to farmers for damage due to high winds, hail, tornado, floods or excessive rainfall or snowfall. These funds are for recovery expenses not covered by insurance. The Disaster Recovery Loan can be used to help clean up, repair, or replace farm structures and septic and water systems, as well as replace seed, other crop inputs, feed, and livestock.

Poston encourages farmers to reach out Ryan Robles at the Department of Agriculture if they have any questions regarding eligibility. Robles can be reached by phone at 651-201-6666 or via email at [email protected].