Time is running short for farmers and ranchers who want to apply for Grazing Loss Assistance. The deadline to apply for losses incurred through drought or fire in 2021 is Monday, Jan. 31.

“Ongoing, widespread drought conditions have resulted in significant financial losses for agricultural producers, causing stress across rural America,” Zach Ducheneaux, Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator, said in a recent news release. 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reminded those who farm or produce livestock that they can offset the weather-related tough times by applying for assistance through the Livestock Forage Disaster Program. Documentation must be provided to support your claim.

The release said residents of 901 counties across 26 states and territories are eligible to apply for aid this year. Geographical eligibility is determined by data from the U.S. Drought Monitor. The USDA's website can help you determine if your area is on the list. 

Farmers and ranchers have received more than $473 million through the program so far, the release said.

"I’d like to encourage producers who suffered 2021 grazing losses to file their LFP applications as soon as possible to expedite payments," Ducheneaux said. "Timely filing is doubly important this year, as information gathered may be used to deliver upcoming disaster assistance.”