Governor Kathy Hochul has formally requested a USDA disaster declaration for farms in Oneida, Lewis, Herkimer, Oswego, and Madison counties after heavy snow, ice, and strong winds caused between $15 million and $20 million in damage earlier this year. The declaration would allow impacted farmers to apply for low-interest emergency loans through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
“Severe weather earlier this year wreaked nearly unprecedented damage on farms across Northern and Central New York, and I’m requesting a USDA disaster declaration to help bring relief to our agricultural communities,” Hochul said in a statement. “This damage has upended the futures of farms as they face tens of millions of dollars in economic impact. I urge the USDA to take swift action to declare these counties a disaster area and help our farmers get the assistance they need to move forward.”
From January 6 to February 25, 2025, heavy snow, ice, and sustained freezing temperatures blanketed the region, with over 180 inches of snowfall recorded. The National Weather Service reported that ongoing cold temperatures prevented melting, which led to dangerous ice buildup on farm structures. The weight of the accumulated snow and ice collapsed barns, damaged equipment storage facilities, and resulted in livestock losses.
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball visited affected farms in Oneida County earlier this month and emphasized the long-term challenges for farmers recovering from the winter storms.
“Shortly after the last round of heavy snow and ice, I was able to visit a number of farms in Oneida County and see firsthand the damage that these farms sustained,” Ball said. “Typically, we are concerned about crop loss when we face severe weather, but this winter storm impacted infrastructure and livestock that will make it extremely difficult to look toward this year’s planting season. I am thankful to the Governor for this request and appreciate the USDA’s consideration to move ahead with a disaster declaration to provide some financial relief to area farmers.”
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) and Cornell Cooperative Extension estimate that at least 60 agricultural sites in the affected counties reported significant damage. The USDA’s disaster declaration process could open access to additional federal assistance beyond emergency loans. Hochul also urged Congress to approve further aid and asked the USDA to highlight additional support programs that farmers might be eligible for.
If the declaration is approved, farmers in the affected counties will have eight months to apply for financial assistance.
