Montezuma County Named USDA Disaster Area due to Drought
The USDA has named Montezuma County, Colorado, a primary natural disaster area. This designation allows the Farm Service Agency (FSA) to offer emergency loans to affected agricultural producers.
The drought, which began on March 25, 2025, has met the USDA's threshold for disaster assistance. Counties with D2-level drought (Severe) lasting eight consecutive weeks, or D3/D4 levels (Extreme to Exceptional) are eligible.
Emergency loans can be used to replace equipment, livestock, or to reorganize or refinance farming operations. FSA assesses each application based on the level of loss, security available, and repayment ability.
Neighbouring counties also qualify, including Dolores, La Plata, and San Juan in Colorado, along with Apache County in Arizona, San Juan in New Mexico, and San Juan in Utah.
“We know how hard natural disasters hit farming communities. This designation is about helping producers stay resilient,” an FSA spokesperson stated.
To apply, farmers should visit their local USDA Service Center or go online to farmers.gov where tools like the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool and Loan Assistance Tool are available.
Applications for this USDA relief program must be submitted by February 2, 2026. The USDA encourages early applications to avoid delays and help producers recover as quickly as possible.
This declaration is part of USDA’s commitment to support rural communities affected by natural disasters and protect the future of agriculture in drought-stricken areas.