Applications are now being accepted for the Agricultural Disaster Crop Loss Program that designates $200 million for farmers in Western NC and over $110 million for farmers in other areas of the state. The deadline to apply is May 4 and the program is open to farmers in all 100 counties.
- Today we are opening the application period for the Agricultural Disaster Crop Loss Program to help farmers who suffered crop losses in 2024.
- Over the past six months, we have talked a lot about what a terrible year farmers had in 2024 – from drought, Topical Storm Debby, other unnamed tropical storms and finally Hurricane Helene.
- We have been working with the legislature since the disaster on funding needs, and I am grateful they recently approved nearly $311 million for crop losses statewide.
- Under the program $200 million will be directed to crop losses in Western NC, and over $110 million for crop losses across the rest of the state.
- We will be administering the program through online applications, which are being accepted now through May 4. Today is the first day of the application period.
- We have also activated our disaster assistance hotline that will operate Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to answer questions that farmers may have. The number is 1-866-645-9403.
- We have moved quickly to iron out the details of the program because we recognize the urgency of getting funds into farmers hands as quickly as possible, particularly in hopes it will help them get started this growing season.
- I have heard from many farmers who are not sure how they are going to plant this year because they have put all their resources into clearing and getting fields in shape to plant. Many have expressed concerns about obtaining credit to start the season.
- The disaster funds cover pretty much all crops grown in the state that experienced loss, including specialty crops.
- Farmers will need to fill out an FSA Form 578 Producer Print and an NC Sub W-9 as part of the application process.
- Farmers can find a link to the online application, along with information on eligibility, program requirements and Frequently Asked Questions at www.ncagr.gov.
- I encourage farmers to share this information with their neighbors and anyone who may not have access to the internet. We want to get the information out to any farmer with verifiable losses that is eligible to apply.