The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is urging Ohio livestock producers who experienced grazing losses due to drought in 2025 to report these losses and enroll in the Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) by March 1, 2026. The program offers compensation for eligible producers who faced grazing losses on privately-owned or cash-leased land.
Producers in several Ohio counties, including Allen, Auglaize, Belmont, and others, can apply for LFP benefits on small grain, native pasture, improved pasture, annual ryegrass, or forage sorghum. Eligible livestock include alpacas, beef cattle, bison, buffalo, beefalo, dairy cattle, deer, elk, emus, equine animals like horses and ostriches that contribute to commercial operations. However, animals used for hunting or racing remain ineligible.
Recently updated LFP policies have expanded eligibility to include more income-producing grazing animals. Producers must file timely acreage reports using the FSA-578 form to participate in USDA programs like LFP. They are encouraged to contact their local FSA County Office with questions about specific livestock and forage crops.
Ohio’s agriculture sector plays a significant role in the state’s economy and is supported by initiatives from the Ohio Department of Agriculture. The department focuses on food safety and economic growth for farmers and agribusinesses across the state.
For further information or to schedule an appointment for LFP enrollment, producers can visit http://offices.usda.gov.
