Farmers may find it difficult to access federal aid programs due to the government shutdown as Maine endures its worst drought in more than 20 years.

The Farm Service Agency, which is under the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, declared an extreme drought disaster in 10 Maine counties a week before the shutdown. The relief programs include compensation for lost livestock, cost shares for transporting water and low-interest loans.

Farmers were urged to report drought-related crop or livestock losses to their local Farm Service office, but some say they're having trouble getting information.

Currently displayed on the USDA website is a banner that says:

"Due to the radical left Democrat shutdown, this government website will not be updated during the funding lapse

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