In response to significant snowfall impacts during the past winter, agricultural producers in Chautauqua County are now eligible for low-interest Physical Loss Loans through the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA). These loans aim to assist farmers in recovering from damage to essential physical property, including barns, equipment, and livestock facilities.
“Snow-related damage can create real hardship for our local farms,” stated Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. “We’re thankful the USDA is offering this loan program to help producers recover from the toll that heavy snow has taken on barns, equipment, and livestock operations.”
The county experienced several storm-related losses, notably a barn collapse in Arkwright in December 2024 due to heavy snow. This incident resulted in livestock fatalities and injury to a firefighter during rescue efforts. Such events highlight the need for preparedness and support when natural disasters occur.
“This incident in Arkwright reminded us how severe snow-related damage can be for our farming community,” said Noel Guttman, Director of Chautauqua County Emergency Services. “We’re grateful to see federal support now available, and we urge all local producers to review their property for damage and seek assistance.”
The USDA Physical Loss Loans are intended for repairing or replacing essential farm structures and equipment, as well as covering losses related to livestock, perennial crops, and stored agricultural products. The application deadline is December 7, 2025.
Chautauqua County is designated as a primary county eligible for this disaster assistance by the USDA. Other primary counties in New York include Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Oneida, and Oswego. Additionally, producers in contiguous counties such as Cattaraugus, Cayuga, Erie, Fulton, Hamilton, Madison, Montgomery, Onondaga, Otsego, St. Lawrence in New York; and Erie and Warren in Pennsylvania are also eligible.
For further information on eligibility and application processes, producers can visit the USDA’s disaster resources at farmers.gov or consult the New York State Department of Agriculture’s emergency management page. Local USDA Service Centers are available to assist with filing Notices of Loss.
