Pike County farmers are eligible for natural disaster assistance due to excessive rain and flooding this year.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Pike County is one of 50 Alabama counties that have been designated primary natural disaster areas.

“Out hearts go out to those Alabama farmers and ranchers affected by recent natural disasters,” said Tom Vilsack, agricultural secretary. “We’re also telling Alabama producers that USDA stands with you and your communities when severe weather and natural disasters threaten to disrupt your livelihood.”

The designation was announced on Sept. 18, making it possible for all qualified farm operators in designated areas to receive low interest emergency loans for USDA’s Farm Service Agency, provided eligibility requirements are met.

Some counties in Florida, Mississippi, Tennessee and Georgia also received the primary disaster area designation.

Additional programs available to assist farmers and ranchers include the Emergency Conservation Program, Federal Crop Insurance and the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program.

Interested farmers may contact their local USDA Service Centers for more information about eligibility requirements and application procedures.

More information is also available online at http://disaster.fsa.usda.gov.