The table provides the final dates to file a notice of loss and/or application for payment for either 2008 or 2009 livestock losses. Eligible ranchers and livestock producers can apply for benefits through the Livestock Indemnity Program provided in the 2008 Farm Bill.

"This program will provide livestock producers with a vital safety net to help them overcome the damaging financial impact of natural disasters," said Nancy Allred, acting executive director for USDA Farm Service Agency in San Saba County.

The program provides assistance to producers for livestock deaths that result from disaster. LIP compensates livestock owners and contract growers for livestock death losses in excess of normal mortality due to adverse weather, including losses due to hurricanes, floods, blizzards, disease, wildfires, extreme heat and extreme drought.

Eligible losses must have occurred on or after Jan. 1, 2008, and before Oct. 2, 2011.

Specific provisions for other supplemental agricultural disaster assistance programs authorized by the 2008 Act -- Livestock Forage Disaster Program, Supplemental Revenue Assistance Program, Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees and Farm-Raised Catfish, and the Tree Assistance Program -- will be implemented through separate rulemakings and announced at a later date.

For more information on available supplemental disaster assistance programs, visit a county FSA office or www.fsa.usda.gov.