Loudoun County farmers and agricultural producers affected by this spring’s devastating frost and freeze events may now be eligible for federal disaster assistance following a Secretarial Disaster Declaration issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The declaration follows a request by Governor Abigail Spanberger after unusually warm early spring weather prompted fruit trees, vineyards, and other crops to bud weeks ahead of schedule. When temperatures dropped into the 20s across multiple nights in March and April, many crops suffered catastrophic damage, with some growers across Virginia reporting complete crop losses.

For Loudoun County, where agriculture remains a vital part of the local economy and identity, the designation offers an important opportunity for eligible farmers and vineyard operators to access financial assistance as they recover from a difficult growing season.

What the Declaration Means for Loudoun Producers

The USDA Secretarial Disaster Declaration makes eligible farm operators in designated counties, including Loudoun County, eligible to be considered for several forms of assistance through the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA), including:

• Emergency loans
• Credit extensions
• Potential future federal disaster relief programs, subject to eligibility requirements

Producers have eight months from the date of the declaration date of June 26, 2026 to apply for emergency loan assistance.

These programs are intended to help farmers continue operating despite significant crop losses by assisting with expenses such as production costs, labor, debt service, and other operating needs while they prepare for future growing seasons.

A Challenging Year for Virginia Agriculture

According to the Virginia Cooperative Extension, losses from this year’s freeze exceeded the USDA’s disaster threshold in many areas of the Commonwealth, with some producers expecting little to no harvest in 2026. Fruit growers, vineyards, ornamental nurseries, and small grain producers were among those most heavily impacted.

Many perennial crops damaged this spring may require multiple growing seasons before returning to normal production, making recovery a long-term effort for many family farms.

Next Steps for Loudoun Farmers

Loudoun producers who experienced losses are encouraged to contact their local USDA Farm Service Agency office as soon as possible to discuss available disaster assistance programs and begin the application process if eligible.

The official USDA disaster designation issued by Governor Spanberger can be viewed here:

Official Secretarial Disaster Declaration

Loudoun County’s farms, vineyards, orchards, and agricultural businesses play an important role in the county’s economy, tourism industry, and quality of life. As producers work through the challenges created by this year’s unprecedented freeze, this federal assistance can help provide critical financial support while they plan for future harvests.