The USDA has declared Maine's ongoing drought a natural disaster, allowing farmers to apply for federal emergency assistance loans from the agency.

Farmers in all 16 counties are eligible for the USDA loans. Funds can be used to pay off debt, for essential living expenses, and to replace product or equipment.

Much or all of the state has been gripped by drought for several months now, despite recent rainfall . It started with a dry spell in August and has continued to worsen throughout the growing season. The drought has been severe enough to impact many farmers' bottom lines; Blueberries , apples, potatoes, and maple syrup growers have all felt the effects.

"We saw significant reduction in crop yield on almost all crops," said Tom Gordon, soil and water conservation program coo

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