(NewsNation) — The government shutdown has prevented American farmers from receiving some payments and aid, piling on to an industry facing falling crop prices, rising debts and trade wars.

The Department of Agriculture's contingency plan estimated roughly 42,000 department staff will be furloughed during the shutdown — around 49% of its workforce.

USDA's Farm Service Agency, which handles aid programs for the nation's growers, will be among the department's hardest hit. Approximately 6,370 of the 9,460 who work at the agency are expected to be furloughed, according to reports.

Activities deemed critical — some lab operations and food safety inspections — will continue, while nonmandatory data collection and most research will be halted.

Government shutdown spells 'farm crisis': Fourth

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