USDA programs help producers recover from drought and wildfire losses
Colorado farmers and ranchers facing drought and wildfire challenges have access to several USDA programs designed to support recovery and strengthen long-term resilience.
Livestock producers who suffered grazing losses due to drought or wildfire may qualify for disaster assistance programs that help offset feed shortages and livestock-related losses. Additional support is available for producers who experienced livestock deaths, reduced livestock values, or increased costs for transporting feed and water.
Growers of orchards, vineyards, and nursery trees may also qualify for assistance to replant or rehabilitate trees, bushes, and vines damaged by severe weather conditions.
“We know current drought and wildfire conditions are adversely impacting crops, land, water supplies and livestock, creating financial and emotional strain for the farmers and ranchers we serve,” said Farm Production and Conservation Under Secretary Richard Fordyce.
He continued, “USDA has a suite of programs to support farmers and ranchers as they recover from disasters. I encourage impacted producers to contact their local USDA Service Center to report losses and learn more about program options available to assist in their recovery from crop, land, infrastructure, and livestock losses and damages.”
USDA encourages producers to report losses as soon as possible and maintain records such as receipts, herd inventories, farm documents, and photographs of damages. These records can help streamline applications for disaster assistance.
Farmers may also access emergency and operating loans to recover from production and physical losses. Loan funds can be used for replacing livestock, equipment, feed, seed, and other essential farm needs. Loan servicing options are available for producers experiencing repayment difficulties due to circumstances beyond their control.
Producers with crop insurance or Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program coverage should promptly report crop damage to ensure eligibility for benefits.
USDA conservation programs can further assist with debris removal, fence restoration, emergency water conservation measures, and recovery of damaged forestland. Emergency haying and grazing options may also be available on eligible conservation land to help livestock producers during drought conditions.
“Once producers are safely able to determine and report their losses or damages, our local Farm Service Agency staff can help producers with program applications related to drought and wildfire recovery,” said Jerry Sonnenberg, State Executive Director for FSA in Colorado.
He added, “As you evaluate losses on your operation, take time to gather important documents you may need to apply for assistance including farm records, herd inventory, receipts and pictures of damages or losses. FSA staff will do their best to work with the loss documentation records you have available.”
The Natural Resources Conservation Service offers technical guidance and financial assistance for conservation practices that improve soil health, water conservation, and overall drought resilience. These practices can help reduce future losses and strengthen farm sustainability.
“Crop insurance and other USDA risk management options are offered to help producers manage risk because we never know what nature has in store for the future,” said Collin Olsen, Director of USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) Regional Office that covers Colorado.
He continued, “Disasters can be trying for producers, and they should stay in close contact with their crop insurance agent. Producers can be assured that the Approved Insurance Providers, loss adjusters and agents are experienced and well-trained in handling these types of events.”
Communities affected by disasters may qualify for watershed recovery assistance programs to address hazards such as debris accumulation, damaged streambanks, and other environmental impacts.
“At USDA, we serve as a partner to help landowners with their resiliency and recovery efforts,” said Clint Evans, NRCS State Conservationist in Colorado. “Our staff will work one-on-one with landowners to make assessments of the damages and develop methods that focus on effective recovery of the land.”
USDA officials encourage producers and local communities to contact their nearest USDA Service Center to learn about available programs and begin the recovery process. The agency continues to provide resources aimed at helping agricultural operations recover from natural disasters while preparing future weather challenges.
More USDA disaster assistance information can be found on farmers.gov.
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