In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which devastated parts of the Southeast, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has deployed staff and implemented various measures to support farmers, foresters, and rural communities affected by the storm. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Zach Ducheneaux joined President Biden in visiting Florida and Georgia to assess the damage and meet with impacted residents and farmers.
“Our job is to keep farms viable, help rural communities remain resilient, and provide assistance as quickly as possible to as many people as possible,” said Vilsack.
The USDA is offering emergency response support and program flexibilities, such as extending sign-up opportunities and using waivers to expedite recovery efforts. The agency has deployed 190 staff, including U.S. Forest Service personnel, to aid in debris removal and other response activities. Farmers are encouraged to document losses and contact their local USDA Service Center or the Farm Service Agency Call Center for assistance.
Key USDA resources and actions:
- Crop insurance payments: More than 38,000 crop insurance policies covering 4.8 million acres are in place in the impacted areas. USDA has directed insurers to expedite loss adjustments to ensure payments within 30 days.
- Disaster assistance programs: Flexibilities include extended sign-up deadlines and waivers for specific emergency procedures. Programs like the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP), Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP), and Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP) offer financial assistance for farm recovery.
- Nutrition assistance: USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service has issued waivers and flexibilities for emergency meal programs in affected states.
- Rural development support: USDA’s Rural Development division is engaging with local governments to assist with housing, water infrastructure, and business support in rural areas.
The USDA is holding a virtual briefing on Oct. 7 for producers and stakeholders to provide details on disaster assistance programs. Additionally, mental health resources are available through the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network.
For more information and resources, visit farmers.gov/hurricane.
The USDA’s efforts reflect a broader commitment under the Biden-Harris administration to build resilient local and regional food systems, promote fair markets, and support recovery and development in rural communities.
