Federal Disaster Declaration Opens Doors to Aid for Washington County Farmers Following April Freeze

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Washington County, MD – Agricultural producers across multiple Maryland counties, including Washington County, are now eligible for critical financial assistance following the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) approval of a Federal Secretarial Disaster Declaration. This declaration, issued in response to the severe freeze event on April 21, 2026, makes vital resources available to those who suffered significant crop losses. The approval came after a formal request from Governor Wes Moore, who sought aid for farmers experiencing damages that exceeded the 30 percent threshold required for such a designation.

The April freeze inflicted extensive damage on perennial crops throughout the state, leaving many growers facing substantial recovery expenses. These costs include those related to crop recovery, plant health, labor, and ongoing maintenance, all while facing a significant reduction, or complete absence, of harvestable yield for the current season. Adding to these challenges, many regions of Maryland are also contending with prolonged drought conditions, further straining the financial stability of the state’s agricultural sector.

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The federal disaster declaration allows agricultural producers in Washington County and eleven other designated primary counties, along with eligible contiguous counties, to potentially access low-interest emergency loans and various other support programs administered by the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA). These initiatives are designed to provide financial relief for losses incurred and to help sustain the long-term viability of agricultural operations in Maryland. Producers facing losses from the freeze are urged to promptly contact their local USDA FSA office to explore the available assistance programs and initiate the application process.

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The assessment of agricultural losses is continuing in additional Maryland counties, and further information and updates can be obtained through the Maryland Department of Agriculture. Washington County has reiterated its commitment to supporting its agricultural community and encourages all impacted producers to investigate the assistance programs now accessible through this federal declaration.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Washington County Department of Business and Economic Development.

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