105 counties in Missouri eligible for disaster aid

Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon announced Wednesday farmers in more than 100 counties that suffered losses from natural disasters this summer now are eligible for assistance.

Farmers in 105 counties, including Cape Girardeau, Bollinger and Perry, who sustained losses from severe storms, tornadoes, strong winds and flooding between mid-May and late July are eligible for low-interest loans and other federal assistance, according to a news release from the governor's office.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture issued a natural disaster area designation Aug. 18, making eligibility for aid possible.

"The scope of this declaration by USDA demonstrates how the severe weather most of Missouri experienced earlier this spring and summer hit farmers especially hard," Nixon said in the news release.

The disaster designation means eligible farmers may be considered for assistance from the USDA Farm Service Agency, according to the release. Affected farmers may contact their local FSA office for more information.

Fifteen Missouri counties along the Mississippi River were included in a USDA disaster designation Aug. 12 because of flood losses since June 1, the release said. Counties in that area include Cape Girardeau, Scott, Perry and Mississippi.

Pertinent address:

Cape Girardeau County, MO

Scott County, MO

Bollinger County, MO

Perry County, MO

Mississippi County, MO