Iowa Counties Receive Disaster Designation After Severe March Winter Storm

By Andi Anderson

Several counties in Iowa have been officially designated as natural disaster areas following a severe winter storm that occurred on March 19, 2025. This designation was made through a Presidential disaster declaration, which allows the United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency to offer financial support to agricultural producers affected by the event.

The declaration provides access to emergency loans designed to help farmers and ranchers recover from storm-related losses and continue operating their agricultural businesses.

The Iowa counties identified as primary disaster areas include Crawford, Harrison, Monona, and Woodbury. Producers in these counties are eligible to apply for USDA emergency loans, which can assist with a variety of recovery needs.

These needs may include replacing damaged equipment or livestock, reorganizing a farming operation, or refinancing specific debts. The Farm Service Agency will review each application based on the extent of losses, the available security, and the applicant’s ability to repay the loan.

In addition to the primary counties, several surrounding Iowa counties are also eligible because they share borders with the affected areas. These contiguous counties include Audubon, Carroll, Cherokee, Ida, Plymouth, Pottawattamie, Sac, and Shelby.

Although the disaster originated in Iowa, neighboring regions in Nebraska and South Dakota have also been listed as contiguous due to their proximity. However, Iowa remains the central focus of this declaration and assistance.

Producers in the eligible Iowa counties have until January 21, 2026, to apply for emergency loans. Those needing support are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center for guidance and to file a Notice of Loss.

Online tools such as the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool and Loan Assistance Tool on farmers.gov can also help applicants understand available programs and next steps.

Additional assistance resources are available through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. FEMA provides support for public groups, nonprofit organizations, and individuals affected by natural disasters. Information about programs can be found by visiting the FEMA assistance page.

Iowa farmers who experienced storm-related damage are encouraged to explore available options early to support recovery and maintain their agricultural operations throughout the coming year.

Photo Credit: usda