Due to the recent drought, four counties in Iowa have been designated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as primary natural disaster areas.

The four counties are Keokuk, Henry, Davis, and Van Buren. Farmers and ranchers in contiguous counties also qualify for the natural disaster assistance, this includes Washington, Louisa, Jefferson, and Iowa Counties. The designation was set October 4th, which gives all qualified farm operators in these areas eight months eligible for emergency loans to help cover part of their actual losses. Interested farmers should contact their local USDA service centers for eligibility requirements and application procedures.