Lafayette, La. – U.S. Representative Charles W. Boustany, Jr. today praised U.S. Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns for designating the entire State of Louisiana as a primary natural disaster.  The designation is a result of the losses caused by drought since January 1, 2006.  Today’s announcement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) makes farm operators in all Louisiana parishes eligible to be considered for low-interest emergency loans from the Farm Service Agency (FSA), provided eligibility requirements are met. 

 

“Farmers and ranchers in Southwest Louisiana continue to face weather-related challenges and it’s important that they receive the resources necessary to manage these difficult times.  Today’s decision by Secretary Johanns is a significant step in that direction,” said Boustany.  “I will continue to work as hard for the farmers and ranchers of Southwest Louisiana as they do for their communities.”

 

The Farm Service Agency (FSA) will consider each application on its own merit by taking into account the extent of losses, security available, and repayment ability.  Local FSA offices can provide affected farmers with further information.

 

For a complete list of FSA Offices in Southwest Louisiana, click here.

 

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