Jim Wells and Brooks Counties Added to Disaster Declaration, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz Announces

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz announced today that Jim Wells County and Brooks County have been designated as contiguous disaster areas. This designation was made following the U.S. Department of Agriculture's declaration of several Texas counties as primary natural disaster areas due to significant agricultural losses in the 2023 Crop Year.

The disaster designation for Jim Wells County and Brooks County was confirmed by USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack after a thorough review of loss assessment reports by the Texas State Executive Director of the Farm Service Agency (FSA). These reports demonstrated significant production losses that justified the natural disaster designation for these counties. As contiguous disaster areas, local farmers in Jim Wells County and Brooks County are now eligible for potential aid.

Congresswoman De La Cruz emphasized the importance of this designation for the agricultural community, stating, "Our farmers are the backbone of our local economy, and ensuring they have the necessary support during times of crisis is crucial. This disaster designation is vital for the recovery of our agricultural community in Jim Wells and Brooks Counties. I encourage all affected farmers to contact their local FSA office to explore the support available to them."

In addition to the recent designation of Jim Wells County and Brooks County, Guadalupe, Jim Wells, Karnes, Live Oak, and Wilson counties were also designated as natural disaster areas in March due to drought. Hidalgo County had previously received a federal disaster declaration in 2023 due to drought.

Farmers in the designated areas have eight months from the date of the disaster declaration to apply for emergency loans from the FSA, aimed at helping them recover from production losses. Affected individuals are urged to contact their local FSA offices for guidance on the application process and to assess their eligibility for emergency financial assistance. More information can be found by visiting farmers.gov/working-with-us/service-center-locator.