Jeff Bingaman United States Senator from New Mexico

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman today announced that Colfax and Harding counties have been declared eligible for disaster assistance due to losses caused by drought and high winds that occurred from January 1, through December 31, 2009.

The counties of Mora, Quay, San Miguel, Taos and Union are also eligible for assistance due to their proximity to the two primary counties.

As a result of the declaration, farmers and ranchers in Colfax, Harding, Mora, Quay, San Miguel, Taos and Union are now eligible to be considered for low-interest emergency loans from the Farm Service Agency, which is part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

"Severe weather conditions can have a devastating effect on farmers and ranchers.  I am pleased today's designation provides northeastern New Mexican producers the opportunity to apply for low-interest loans," Bingaman said.

For information contact your local FSA office or visit their website.