USDA Expands Livestock Forage Disaster Program Assistance for Producers

With drought conditions continuing to impact many areas across Washington and wildfire season well underway, livestock producers should be aware of recent updates to the USDA Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP).

The Working Families Tax Cuts Act recently expanded the program, allowing eligible producers to receive disaster assistance sooner when grazing losses occur due to qualifying drought conditions.

What’s Changed?

The updated program reduces the waiting period for assistance:

• One-month LFP payment now becomes available after 4 consecutive weeks of Severe Drought (D2) conditions, reduced from the previous 8-week requirement.

• Producers may qualify for a two-month payment when D2 drought conditions persist for 7 out of 8 consecutive weeks.

• All other drought intensity levels, payment rates, and eligibility requirements remain unchanged.

Who May Qualify?

The Livestock Forage Disaster Program is available to eligible producers who:

• Own or lease grazing land or pasture.

• Have experienced qualifying grazing losses due to drought or wildfire on federally managed lands.

• Raise eligible livestock, including cattle, sheep, goats, horses, alpacas, dairy cattle, and other qualifying species.

• Meet USDA FSA documentation and program requirements.

Important Reminder

Applications for grazing losses must be submitted to your local USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) office no later than March 1 following the calendar year in which the loss occurred.

If drought conditions continue to worsen this summer, producers are encouraged to keep good grazing records and stay in contact with their local FSA office regarding eligibility.

For additional information, program requirements, and application forms, visit the USDA Livestock Forage Disaster Program webpage.

Thank you to AgWest Farm Credit for sharing this timely information with Washington producers.