MONTPELIER, Vt. (AP) – The federal government on Monday declared an agriculture emergency across the state, citing recent heavy rains.

The designation makes farmers eligible low-interest federal emergency loans.

“USDA has determined that there were sufficient production losses in all 14 Vermont counties to warrant a … natural disaster designation,” U.S. Agriculture Secretary Michael Johanns said.

Heavy rains in late spring and early summer have damaged crops and flooded fields. Gov. James Douglas sought the federal disaster aid last week.

“Declaration of this emergency will help qualify farmers for low-interest loans to purchase seed, feed and tend to other needs,” Douglas said. “Nevertheless, my administration remains committed to finding ways to enhance farmers’ cash flow.”

On Thursday the governor will hold an emergency dairy summit to discuss immediate ways that the state can help farmers who are coping with excessive rain, low milk prices and high fuel costs. Farmers, milk haulers and processors and state and federal officials have been asked to participate.

Farmers can apply for the low-interest loans at a USDA Farm Services Agency office.