By Scout Nelson
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is offering low-interest Physical Loss Loans to support farmers and ranchers in North Dakota and parts of Montana who were affected by recent wildfires and high winds. These loans help producers recover by repairing or replacing critical farm property that was damaged or destroyed.
The USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) provides these loans to assist with the recovery of structures and equipment essential to farming operations. Eligible losses include farm buildings, machinery, fencing, fixtures, livestock, harvested crops, hay, and fruit or nut-bearing trees.
The primary disaster area covered by this aid includes McKenzie County, North Dakota, which experienced severe wildfire and wind damage. However, several contiguous counties are also eligible for inclusion. These include Richland, Roosevelt, and Wibaux counties in Montana, and Billings, Dunn, Golden Valley, Mountrail, and Williams counties in North Dakota.
Farmers and ranchers in these areas could apply for assistance if they suffered direct damage due to the disaster. The deadline to apply is March 9, 2026. Applications are handled by local FSA offices, and producers are encouraged to apply early and gather all necessary documentation of loss.
This disaster assistance helps ensure that affected producers can continue operating and rebuilding after severe weather. It is part of USDA’s ongoing effort to support rural communities and maintain the stability of the nation’s food system.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Equipment & Machinery, Government & Policy, Harvesting, Livestock