Federal disaster relief funds expected to begin rollout

Eligible growers affected by natural disasters can expect applications to open for $10 billion in economic aid by March 21, according to the USDA.

USDA chief Brooke Rollins told farmers at the Commodity Classic earlier this month that funds would be ready by that deadline.

John Boozman, chair of the Senate ag committee, told Politico’s Morning Agriculture report on March 17 that he’s spoken with Rollins and expects the funds to be available on time.

The assistance is part of a broader $31 million package which includes relief for growers affected by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. Details of the availability of the additional $21 billion are not yet clear.

The $10 billion economic aid will be distributed through the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (E-CAP), with payments based on crops planted and market prices.

Pre-filled applications will be sent to producers with information already on file, using 2024 acreage reporting data. Producers can review, sign and return these applications to local Farm Service Agency (FSA) service centers.

Initial payments will likely be around 85% of the total, followed by a supplemental payment in the summer, according to USDA.

Exact payment schedules may vary based on the efficiency of the application process and the speed at which USDA can verify and process applications.