Christine Palm

Dear Neighbor, 



Farmers -- whether first-timers or those who've worked the land for generations -- are an integral part of the character and economy of our district. That's why I am pleased to announce that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved Governor Lamont's request to expand the natural disaster declaration for certain parts of our state due to the summer drought that has continued through fall. Agricultural producers in all 8 Connecticut counties are eligible to apply for assistance through the Farm Service Agency to help offset production losses resulting from the drought.



With the declaration, Fairfield, Hartford, Litchfield, Middlesex, New London, and Windham counties have been designated as primary natural disaster areas due to the drought. New Haven and Tolland counties have been named contiguous disaster counties. 

While the recent rain has helped ease water concerns presently, many agricultural producers experienced crop losses and reduced yields through the summer. 



Farm operators can apply for emergency loans and other forms of assistance through their local Farm Service Agency office. Framers have 8 months from the date of the declaration to apply for assistance. You can learn more about this here.

Please feel free to contact me by email at Christine.Palm@cga.ct.gov with any questions or concerns.



Sincerely,



Christine Palm

State Representative