With farmers in northern West Virginia still hurting from floods that wiped out crops in June, state officials are seeking federal aid in the form of a disaster declaration.
Governor Joe Manchin asked the U.S. Department of Agriculture to declare a natural disaster in Gilmer, Calhoun, Randolph, Tucker and Barbour counties.
On June 4, Manchin declared a state of emergency in those and eight other nearby counties, allowing for funds to be used by homeowners and businesses.
State Agriculture Commissioner Gus Douglass said a USDA declaration would set aside funds specifically for farmers who could be facing the loss of an entire year’s work.