USDA designates eight Maryland counties, including Caroline, as primary natural disaster areas after drought

The county administrator informed commissioners that, per correspondence from a congressional office and USDA, eight Maryland counties have been designated as primary natural disaster areas because of recent drought conditions. The administrator said local Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices can provide information to affected farmers about available assistance.

In the meeting the chair summarized the designation and said the designation followed approximately an eight-week period without significant rainfall. He advised residents with questions to contact the local FSA office for details about possible assistance and timelines. The meeting record did not list the eight counties by name beyond the chair’s comment that the designation included Caroline County.