By Scout Nelson
The Federal Emergency Management Agency designates the Lake Traverse Reservation as a natural disaster area due to severe storms and flooding that occurred from June 12, 2025, through June 16, 2025. This Presidential disaster declaration allows the United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency to provide emergency financial support to affected farm producers.
Under this designation, the USDA Farm Service Agency extends emergency loans to farmers who suffer losses because of the disaster. These loans help producers recover and rebuild their operations. Farmers can use the funds to replace damaged equipment or livestock, reorganize their farming business, or refinance certain debts. The agency will review each loan application based on the extent of losses, available security, and repayment ability.
The primary eligible areas are Lake Traverse Reservation, Codington, Day, Grant, Marshall, and Roberts counties in South Dakota.
Farmers and ranchers in these designated areas must apply for emergency loan assistance before the deadline of May 11, 2026.
This disaster declaration plays an important role in supporting agricultural recovery. Severe weather events can create serious financial strain for producers. Access to emergency credit helps stabilize farm operations, protect local food systems, and support rural economies.
Through this action, federal agencies continue to provide structured financial assistance to help agricultural communities recover from natural disasters and maintain long-term farm stability.
Photo Credit: usda-farm-service-agency
Categories: South Dakota, Government & Policy, Weather