Government Assistance for Minnesota Farmers
Disaster assistance for Minnesota farmers is provided by federal, state and local agencies, including the:
Minnesota Department of Agriculture
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has many programs and resources to assist in recovering from disasters, including the:
- Disaster Recovery Loan Program
- Flood Disaster Assistance Program
- Minnesota Farmers Assistance Network (MFAN)
- Minnesota Farm Advocates
- Rural Finance Authority
U.S. Department of Agriculture
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has a number of agencies that provide an array of disaster resources and programs, including the:
- Natural Resources Conservation Service
- Rural Development Agency
- Farm Service Agency
University of Minnesota - Extension
University of Minnesota Extension Services offers many resources about farm-related disaster, including the:
- Minnesota Farmer Assistance Network (MFAN)
- Farm Information Line
- Crisis Connection
They also provide struggling farm families with information on health and stress, relationships and communication, and resource management.
Federal Disaster Declaration
When a disaster adversely impacts the agricultural community, a Secretary of Agriculture Disaster Declaration may be made. This declaration will provide a different level of assistance for the agricultural community and is managed through the
U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency.