New York state is requesting a disaster declaration for farms from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for several counties that were impacted by heavy snow this winter that resulted in structural damage and loss of livestock, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Wednesday.

The request is for Oneida, Lewis, Herkimer, Oswego and Madison counties. A disaster designation would allow for affected farms to apply for USDA low-interest emergency loans.

“Severe weather earlier this year wreaked nearly unprecedented damage on farms across Northern and Central New York, and I’m requesting a USDA disaster declaration to help bring relief to our agricultural communities,” Hochul said in a statement. “This damage has upended the futures of farms as they face tens of millions of dollars in economic impact. I urge the USDA to take swift action to declare these counties a disaster area and help our farmers get the assistance they need to move forward.” 

According to the National Weather Service, from Jan. 6 to Feb. 25, these areas experienced extreme winter weather events that brought heavy winds, ice and more than 180 inches of snow to both regions. Sustained cold temperatures prevented much opportunity for thawing and resulted in dozens of collasped structures, many on farms. More than 60 agricultural locations sustained an estimated $15 to $20 million in damage, according to the governor's office.

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“Shortly after the last round of heavy snow and ice, I was able to visit a number of farms in Oneida County and see firsthand the damage that these farms sustained," state Agriculture Commissioner Richard Ball said. "Typically, we are concerned about crop loss when we face severe weather, but this winter storm impacted infrastructure and livestock that will make it extremely difficult to look toward this year’s planting season."