A large swath of livestock producers across Eastern MT and the Western Dakotas are going through one of the worst droughts on record in 2017. The financial cost of the drought on ranchers in this area continues to increase, as we go day after day with little or no precipitation. The good news is there is some financial assistance that may be available to affected producers through the Farm Service Agency.
The Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) provides compensation to eligible livestock producers who have suffered grazing losses on land that is native or improved pasture ground. As of August 1st, ranchers in 17 Montana counties, 31 North Dakota counties and 27 South Dakota counties may be eligible for assistance.
Thanks to the North Dakota State University Extension Service producers across the region can now estimate what amount of aid they may be eligible for. NDSU extension has put together a quick and easy to use Excel program that will provide an approximation of payments. This is an extremely valuable tool for both producers and agricultural lenders trying to find solutions to lighten the stress the drought has put on operations.
To access the spreadsheet please click on the following link: 2017 LFP Calculator
For more details on the LFP program check out the Farm Service Agency LFP Fact Sheet or contact your local Farm Service Agency Office.
To see a map of the eligible counties Click Here.
Source: NDSU Extension Service & Farm Service Agency
Posted by Colter Brown
