The U.S. Small Business Administration has declared the Erskine Fire a disaster allowing for low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, and small businesses impacted by the wildfire near Lake Isabella. Bill Koontz of the SBA says their agency only need 25 homes or businesses with major damage in one county to give aid.

A temporary office opens Wednesday at the Kern River Valley Courts Building to qualify applicants and issue loans.

Sean Michael Lisle