Some local farmers tell us they are struggling to make ends meet during this drought. The USDA is now offering disaster assistance loans to help.

Magoffin County Farmer Mark Minix has trouble feeding his cattle. The ground is too dry for them to eat, and he does not have enough hay. He usually grows 130 bales each season. This fall, he only got 14 because of the drought.

"I believe this year's been the worst we had. We had a good spring, but this fall's been terrible," said Minix.

Now he has to buy feed and water too. The ponds cattle drink from dried up, now he and other farmers are hauling in water for them.

Minix sold half his herd because he could not afford the food and water for them. Then the sluggish economy hurt too.

"You have to sell at market price. Sometimes it ain't what it should be. We're just making it though. We need a little drought relief," added Minix.

Some financial relief is on the way. The USDA says all farmers in all Kentucky counties are eligible for disaster assistance emergency loans.

Minix says the ground will take years to recover so he appreciates the loan.

For information on the drought assistance, you can contact your local USDA Farm Service Office.