Local News in Brief : Countywide : Federal Loans Offered for Farm Storm Damage
County farmers and ranchers who suffered crop damage and production losses during the severe cold snap and winter storms in January can apply for emergency federal loans, county officials announced Monday.
The loans, up to $500,000, will be made through the federal Farmers Home Administration to those who operated family-size farms or ranches during torrential rains, winds and cold that began Jan. 17, according to the county agricultural commission.
The deadline for loan applications is Oct. 5.
The storm also damaged county piers and beaches. President Reagan declared the stricken region a major disaster area on Feb. 5.
John Ellis, a deputy agricultural commissioner for the county, said it is not known how many county residents are eligible for the loans, which must be repaid at a 4.5% interest rate.
“Once they (federal officials) grant the program, individual farmers have to apply to see if they qualify,” he said.
More information is available from FHA representative Rames Pruneda, at 45-691 Monroe St., Suite 1, Indio, Calif. 92201.
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