Staff report

Suffolk is one of 39 localities statewide approved on Monday for federal disaster designations due to the summer’s drought and excessive heat.

The United States Department of Agriculture approved the designation, which will enable farmers to apply for low-interest loans through the USDA as well other emergency assistance provided by Congress.

The designation also makes livestock producers in the localities eligible for assistance from the new Livestock Compensation Program

Other local jurisdictions included in the Franklin and Surry County.