By Scout Nelson
The U.S. Department of Agriculture continues providing technical and financial assistance to Nebraska agricultural producers impacted by recent wildfires. USDA officials said several recovery programs are available to help restore damaged farmland, support livestock operations, and assist producers facing wildfire-related losses.
Wildfires over the past several months have caused significant damage to agricultural operations across Nebraska. USDA agencies, including the Farm Service Agency and Natural Resources Conservation Service, are working with local offices to help producers recover through emergency conservation programs, livestock assistance, and loan opportunities.
“USDA has been implementing a number of programs to support farmers and ranchers as they recover from wildfires,” said Hilary Maricle, Nebraska USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director. “I encourage impacted producers to contact their local USDA Service Center for information about options available to assist in their recovery needs. It’s important for producers to note deadlines to apply for assistance programs. These deadlines could vary from county-to-county, depending on the location and timing of the wildfire, and the implementation rules for the various programs.”
USDA programs include the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees and Farm-Raised Fish Program and the Livestock Indemnity Program, both offering support for wildfire-related livestock losses. Emergency Conservation Program funding is also available in several Nebraska counties for fence repairs, debris removal, water facility restoration, and shelterbelt recovery.
The Conservation Reserve Program for emergency haying and grazing option also provides additional forage access for wildfire-affected livestock operations. Producers may also qualify for low-interest emergency loans and other financing support through FSA.
“NRCS is actively providing both technical and financial assistance to help landowners recover from wildfire damage and restore the health and productivity of their working lands,” said Nebraska USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) State Conservationist Rob Lawson. “Through our emergency Environmental Quality Incentives Program opportunity, eligible producers may receive support for a variety of conservation practices. Producers affected by the wildfires need to contact their local USDA Service Center as soon as possible to complete an application and early start waiver if necessary. NRCS staff are available to assess damage, develop conservation plans, and help determine which practices best support recovery efforts.”
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Nebraska, General, Government & Policy