Drought Prompts Alabama Disaster Designations

Alabama farmers affected by this year’s drought may now be eligible for federal assistance. Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate announced this week that U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has designated 20 Alabama counties as primary natural disaster areas due to prolonged drought conditions in 2025. Another 18 counties have been named contiguous disaster areas.

Commissioner Pate emphasized the widespread impact, noting that over half of Alabama’s counties experienced severe drought. He encourages affected farmers to contact their local USDA offices for information on relief programs.

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, these counties met disaster designation criteria by enduring either severe drought for eight consecutive weeks or extreme to exceptional drought conditions during the 2025 season.

This designation allows eligible farmers to apply for emergency loan assistance through the Farm Service Agency. Farmers in designated counties have until November 25, 2025, to apply. Loan approvals will be based on production losses, financial security, and repayment ability.

For details on available programs and eligibility, visit the USDA Farm Loan Programs website or find your nearest USDA Service Center at farmers.gov.