Friday, September 4, 2026

Daily Update on Federal Disaster Response in Northwest Indiana

As Northwest Indiana continues to recover after the August storm, I wanted to share information on assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for our farmers and agricultural producers who may have experienced damage or economic losses.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has now announced a number of resources that may be available to help agricultural producers recover from crop, livestock, land, equipment, and infrastructure losses. 

The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) issued a declaration which may cover farmers in Northwest Indiana.  On farmers.gov, the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool, Disaster Assistance-at-a-Glance fact sheet, and Loan Assistance Tool can help you determine program or loan options. To file a Notice of Loss or to ask questions about available programs, contact your local USDA Service Center.

One of the most important things farmers can do right now is document the damage and report it promptly. Please take photographs of damaged crops, fields, buildings, equipment, livestock, and other property. Keep farm records, receipts, inventories, insurance information, and documentation of your losses and expenses.

I will continue working with USDA, our state and local partners, and the Indiana Congressional Delegation to support our agricultural community and help ensure everyone knows about available resources.

Please contact my Merrillville District Office at 219-795-1844 or at mrvan.house.gov if you need any assistance or should you have any questions.