Support programs offer drought and wildfire recovery assistance
Farmers and ranchers across Washington are facing serious challenges from ongoing drought and wildfire conditions. To help agricultural operations recover, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is providing a range of financial and technical assistance programs.
Livestock producers may qualify for support through programs designed to offset grazing losses, livestock deaths, emergency feed costs, and transportation expenses linked to drought and wildfire impacts. Assistance is also available for honeybee operations affected by feed shortages caused by dry 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.”
Orchard and nursery growers who lost trees, bushes, or vines may receive cost-share support to replant or rehabilitate damaged plants. Producers are encouraged to report losses quickly and maintain records such as receipts, inventories, and photos to support applications.
USDA also offers emergency and operating loans to eligible producers in disaster-affected areas. These loans can help replace livestock, equipment, feed, seed, and other essential farm resources. Existing borrowers may also have access to loan servicing options if financial hardship prevents timely payments.
Crop producers with federal crop insurance or Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program coverage should report damage promptly to maintain eligibility for support.
“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 Pat Swanson, Administrator of USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA). “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.”
Beyond direct financial aid, conservation programs are available to help restore farmland, repair fences, remove debris, protect water resources, and improve long-term drought resilience. Assistance is also offered for restoring privately owned forestland affected by wildfire damage.
The Natural Resources Conservation Service provides technical expertise and financial support through conservation initiatives that promote soil health, water conservation, and stronger farm resilience against future weather events.
Communities can also benefit from watershed recovery programs that support debris removal, streambank stabilization, and post-wildfire restoration efforts.
USDA encourages producers to contact their local Service Center as soon as it is safe to assess damages. By using available disaster assistance, conservation programs, and risk management tools, farmers can recover more quickly and strengthen their operations for the future.
Producers can find more information about USDA disaster assistance programs, including resources for drought and wildfire recovery, by visiting Farmers.gov.
Photo Credit: usda