In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene across parts of the Southeast, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has mobilized resources and staff to assist with recovery efforts. The USDA is implementing contingency plans and program flexibilities to support farmers, foresters, and communities affected by the storm.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Farm Service Agency Administrator Zach Ducheneaux recently visited Florida and Georgia alongside President Biden to assess damage and meet with those impacted. Secretary Vilsack emphasized that the USDA is extending program signup opportunities and utilizing waivers to expedite recovery efforts. "At USDA, our thoughts and prayers go out to all the families and farmers who have been impacted by this storm," he stated.
The USDA is providing various forms of assistance, including expediting crop insurance payments for over 38,000 policies covering more than 4.8 million acres in affected areas. Farmers are encouraged to document damages and report losses to their local USDA Service Center or through available hotlines if offices are closed.
Several disaster assistance programs have been adjusted for flexibility, such as extended signups for the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) and Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP). Additionally, waivers have been issued for certain requirements to facilitate quicker aid distribution.
Nutrition assistance has also been adapted with flexibilities granted in multiple states to help emergency meal providers reach those in need swiftly. More information on these efforts can be found on the FNS Disaster Assistance webpage.
For comprehensive details on disaster assistance programs, resources are available at farmers.gov, including fact sheets and educational tools provided by FarmRaise.
USDA Rural Development is engaging with local governments on long-term recovery strategies for rural communities affected by Hurricane Helene. This includes addressing housing needs, water infrastructure support, and aiding rural businesses.
The USDA continues its mission under the Biden-Harris administration to transform America's food system towards resilience, equity, and sustainability. Further information about USDA initiatives can be accessed at usda.gov.
