USDA has programs to provide assistance to farmers, ranchers, and small businesses affected by the winter storm that has swept across the country.
“USDA is committed to getting help to producers and rural Americans impacted by the severe weather in many parts of the country. As severe weather and natural disasters continue to threaten the livelihoods of thousands of our farming families, we want you and your communities to know that USDA stands with you,” says Kevin Shea, acting secretary of agriculture.
Disaster assistance and risk management
Because risk management options for livestock and perennial crop producers are limited, several disaster programs are available.
The following three programs reimburse producers for a portion of the value of livestock, poultry, and other animals that were killed or severely injured by a natural disaster or loss of feed.
- Livestock Indemnity Program: LIP provides benefits to livestock producers for livestock deaths in excess of normal mortality caused by adverse weather or by attacks by animals reintroduced into the wild by the federal government. LIP payments are equal to 75% of the average fair market value of the livestock.
- Emergency Assistance for Livestock: ELAP provides financial assistance to eligible producers of livestock, honeybees, and farm-raised fish for losses due to disease, certain adverse weather events, or loss conditions, including blizzards and wildfires, as determined by the secretary. ELAP assistance is provided for losses not covered by other disaster assistance programs authorized by the 2014 Farm Bill and the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, such as losses not covered by the Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) and the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP).
- Honeybee and Farm-Raised Fish Program
The Tree Assistance Program provides cost share assistance to rehabilitate or replant and clean up damage to orchards and vineyards that suffered kill or damaged the tree, vines, or shrubs. NAP or Federal Crop Insurance often only covers the crop, not the plant.
Also, USDA can provide financial resources through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program to help with immediate needs and long-term support to help recover from natural disasters and conserve water resources. Assistance may also be available for emargency animal mortality disposal from natural disasters.
The Farm Service Agency also has a variety of loans available including emergency loans that are trigggered by disaster declarations and operating loans that can assist producers with credit needs.
Documentation is critical
To participate in USDA programs, it’s critical to keep accurate records. Document losses and illnesses following this devastating cold weather event. Livestock producers are advised to document beginning livestock numbers by taking photos or video of any losses.
Other common types of documentation include:
- Purchase records
- Production records
- Vaccination records
- Bank or loan documents
- Third-party certification
Learn More
Visit USDA’s disaster resources website to learn more about USDA disaster preparedness and response. For more information on USDA disaster assistance programs, contact your local USDA Service Center.
