The U.S. Department of Agriculture has declared Erie County a disaster areas as a result of a March freeze that destroyed crops, setting farmers in the region back at a crucial time in the growing season. Crawford and Warren counties are also eligible for benefits, according to a statement from U.S. Sen. Bob Casey.

From late March through early April, Northwestern Pennsylvania experienced a deep freeze that damaged crops throughout the region. Under the declaration, producers in Erie, Crawford and Warren counties will be eligible for aid. The aid includes emergency loans and other measures that will cover production costs that the freeze has cost farmers in the region.