SISTERS, OR -- The Small Business Administration is offering low-interest loans for small businesses impacted by the Milli and Nash Fires that burned tens of thousands of acres in the Deschutes and Willamette National Forests between August 10 and September 25. A number of Sisters businesses reported big declines in summer revenue due to intermittent road closures and the heavy smoke that blanketed the area. 

The SBA is making $2 million in loans available to help businesses cover financial obligations and operating expenses. The SBA declared a disaster, freeing up the funds, following a request from Governor Kate Brown on November 13. Tanya Garfield, with the SBA's Disaster Field Operations Center, says, "These loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that can't be paid because of the disaster's impact." Applications will be accepted online through August 16, 2018. Click HERE for more information. 

Photo: Milli Fire 8/17/17