The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced measures to streamline environmental compliance requirements for hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton in 2024. This move allows the Farm Service Agency (FSA) to expedite payments and practice implementation for programs like the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP), Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP), and Tree Assistance Program (TAP). These steps aim to assist producers affected by these storms in 2024.
Additionally, USDA is waiving certain requirements for ECP and EFRP to speed up restoration cost-share assistance payments for producers impacted by hurricanes from October 1, 2016, through September 30, 2023. The FSA is removing the requirement for producers to submit receipts and documentation related to land restoration.
Zach Ducheneaux, FSA Administrator, stated, “Producers impacted by natural disasters, including hurricanes, are often up against the clock when it comes to recovery efforts... By reducing required documentation and simplifying environmental compliance reviews, producers can implement restoration activities sooner.”
In response to the 2024 hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton, FSA provided flexibility for ECP and EFRP applicants. They can start non-ground disturbing activities without prior approval or on-site inspection. Additional flexibilities will streamline the environmental compliance process for ground-disturbing practices related to these hurricanes.
The FSA received a categorical exclusions waiver allowing alternative arrangements for National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance. The waiver covers several practices such as fence replacement and sediment removal. This approach allows FSA to complete an environmental review more quickly.
Ducheneaux added that completing an environmental review "for an entire disaster area" simplifies the process and allows producers to begin restoration activities promptly.
For hurricanes occurring between 2016 and 2023 in nine states including Alabama and Florida, a documentation waiver is authorized. Approved participants no longer need supporting documentation but must certify completion of practices meeting USDA standards.
For more information on disaster recovery assistance or questions about ECP, EFRP, or TAP programs, producers should contact their local FSA county office or visit farmers.gov/service-center-locator.
The USDA continues its mission under the Biden-Harris administration with a focus on transforming America's food system towards resilience and equity across various sectors.
