Howard County Allocates $1 Million for Drought Relief

Howard County farms, severely affected by extreme heat and drought, can now apply for Drought Relief Grants totaling $1 million, announced by County Executive Calvin Ball. The grants, part of the Enhanced Agricultural Grant (EAG) program, offer up to $30,000 for losses incurred due to the summer's record temperatures and low rainfall. Meanwhile, the Jon Henry General Store received an $85,000 USDA grant to enhance food supply chains in rural areas, providing fresh produce to local families and supporting disadvantaged communities. The IRS has also issued tax relief for farmers forced to sell livestock due to drought, extending the replacement period for livestock to four years. In southeast Ohio, farmers are facing critical conditions, prompting discussions for $10 million in state aid to assist those not qualifying for federal programs. This multi-faceted support highlights the ongoing struggles and efforts to sustain agricultural resilience amid challenging weather conditions.