USDA opens $16 billion in disaster aid for farmers

Farmers who suffered crop losses due to natural disasters in 2023 and 2024 can now apply for assistance through the USDA’s new Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP), the agency announced.

The program will distribute up to $16 billion in congressionally authorized relief. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is rolling out the aid in two phases, beginning July 10 with in-person signups for eligible producers who received payments through crop insurance or the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP).

Pre-filled applications were mailed to eligible producers on July 9.

“American farmers are no stranger to natural disasters that cause losses that leave no region or crop unscathed,” U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke L. Rollins said in a statement. “Under President Trump’s leadership, USDA has worked around the clock to deliver this relief directly to our farmers.”

The SDRP program is part of a broader plan to deliver the full $30 billion in disaster relief appropriated by Congress. Additional funding will be made available later this year through state-administered block grants, according to USDA. Fourteen states are currently working with the agency to develop those programs.

The SDRP covers losses from wildfires, hurricanes, floods, derechos, excessive heat, tornadoes, winter storms, freeze events, smoke exposure, excessive moisture, drought, and related conditions. Drought-related losses must have occurred in counties classified by the U.S. Drought Monitor as being in severe (D2) drought for at least eight consecutive weeks or worse.

Producers in Connecticut, Hawaii, Maine and Massachusetts are not eligible for SDRP payments and will instead receive support through separate block grants funded under the American Relief Act.

Stage One payments are calculated using existing crop insurance or NAP data and will not exceed 90% of a producer’s loss. A payment factor of 35% will be applied to the calculated amount. If funds remain after initial payments, a second round may be issued.

Farmers who receive SDRP payments must purchase crop insurance or NAP coverage at the 60% level or higher for the next two years. Failure to do so may require repayment of the SDRP funds with interest.

Stage Two of the program, which will address shallow and uncovered losses and quality-related damage, is expected to open in early fall.

For more information or to apply, producers should contact their local USDA Service Center or visit the USDA’s online disaster assistance resources.