# USDA Designates Montana Counties Disaster Areas

The United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency (USDA FSA) has officially designated 16 counties in Montana, along with contiguous counties in Idaho and Wyoming, as natural disaster areas due to severe drought conditions beginning May 1, 2026. This designation enables agricultural producers in the affected regions to apply for emergency loans to support recovery efforts. Applications for these loans will be accepted through May 17, 2027, providing a significant window for affected farmers and ranchers to access financial assistance.

- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals and contractors involved in agricultural support services, emergency loan processing, and disaster recovery should note the expanded demand for related services in these Montana counties.
- Agencies and service providers can anticipate increased activity in loan administration, agricultural recovery programs, and related supply chain needs in the designated areas.
- Organizations supporting agricultural technology, drought mitigation, and financial services may find new opportunities to assist USDA FSA and local producers under this disaster designation.
- The extended application deadline through mid-2027 allows ample time for planning and resource allocation to meet the needs of affected agricultural communities.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Energy & Utilities
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** September 29, 2026

### Government Entities
- United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency (USDA FSA)

### Sources
- [USDA Designates 16 Montana Counties as Natural Disaster Areas | Farm Service Agency](https://www.fsa.usda.gov/news-events/news/09-28-2026/usda-designates-16-montana-counties-natural-disaster-areas) - FSA