Illinois e-News Release

April 2, 2025              

Lori Harlan

[email protected] 

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The United State Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the availability of low-interest emergency physical loss loans for producers in six Illinois counties due to losses caused by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides, and mudslides which occurred on February 14, 2025.

The six counties are Alexander, Gallatin, Hardin, Massac, Pope and Pulaski Counties.

“Extreme weather can cause extensive, expensive damage to Illinois farms,” said Jerry Costello II, Illinois Department of Agriculture Director. “Producers with storm damage in these six counties should contact their local USDA Service Center to confirm eligibility.”

Low-interest emergency physical loss loans through the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) can help producers repair or replace damaged or destroyed physical property essential to the success of the agricultural operation, including livestock losses.  Examples of property commonly affected include essential farm buildings, fixtures to real estate, equipment, livestock, perennial crops, fruit and nut bearing trees, and harvested or stored crops and hay.

On farmers.gov, the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool, Disaster Assistance-at-a-Glance fact sheet, and Loan Assistance Tool can help farmers determine program or loan options. To file a Notice of Loss or to ask questions about available programs, contact your local USDA Service Center.