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by Lori Kersey, West Virginia Watch
September 30, 2025
As dry conditions continue in West Virginia, farmers in 10 counties are eligible for emergency loan assistance through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, state officials announced Friday.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, as of Sept. 23, all parts of West Virginia are experiencing conditions ranging from abnormally dry to extreme drought.
The USDA has issued a disaster declaration for the following counties due to drought: Barbour, Brooke, Lewis, Braxton, Hancock, Nicholas, Pocahontas, Randolph, Upshur and Webster.
The following surrounding counties are also eligible for assistance: Calhoun, Clay, Doddridge, Fayette, Gilmer, Grant, Greenbrier, Harrison, Kanawha, Ohio, Pendleton, Preston, Taylor and Tucker.
“West Virginia’s farmers play an important role in our state’s economy, culture and way of life,” Gov. Patrick Morrisey said in a news release. “I want to thank the USDA and the Trump administration for stepping up to help West Virginians in need. My office will continue to work with the WVDA and our partners at the federal and local levels to provide assistance to those affected by the drought.”
“USDA’s quick declaration, combined with the strong cooperation of our partners, shows how important it is to work together in times of need,” State Agriculture Commissioner Kent Leonhardt said in the release. “Our farmers are facing real challenges, and this coordinated response ensures they will get help when it matters most. WVDA will continue working closely with state and federal partners to deliver resources quickly and strengthen agriculture for the future.”
Farmers in affected counties can find out more information by contacting their local Farm Service Agency offices.
Help is also available to affected farmers through their local conservation districts, according to the West Virginia Conservation Agency.
Conservation districts can opt to provide farmers cost-share assistance for temporary fence, livestock water supply, revegetation of feeding areas, cover crop establishment and irrigation water supply. To be eligible for assistance, a portion of one county within a district must have been designated a D1, moderate drought, or higher classification from the U.S. Drought Monitor.
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West Virginia Watch is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. West Virginia Watch maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Leann Ray for questions: info@westvirginiawatch.com.
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