By Jamie Martin
After facing harsh weather conditions, including floods and tornadoes, Texas farmers now have help from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) through multiple disaster assistance programs.
The Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP) offers compensation to livestock producers who lost animals due to storms. Applications must be submitted with loss proof by March 2, 2026. Another program, ELAP, covers feed and grazing losses for livestock owners.
Tree growers affected by the storm may be eligible for the Tree Assistance Program (TAP) to help restore or replant trees and bushes. They must apply within 90 days of the damage.
USDA encourages farmers to keep records, photos, and receipts of damage and to contact local offices for support. Emergency farm loans are also available to help with essential purchases, family expenses, and replacing damaged property.
Those with storage losses can use the Farm Storage Facility Loan Program for low-interest loans to rebuild or repair storage units.
For crop losses, producers with NAP or crop insurance must report damage quickly—within 15 days or 72 hours depending on the policy.
USDA’s conservation efforts include programs like EQIP and ECP that support land recovery, fencing repair, and debris removal on farms and forests.
Communities can benefit from the Emergency Watershed Protection Program which helps local authorities fix waterways and remove debris. Eligible sponsors must apply within 60 days of the disaster.
The USDA continues to provide vital resources to help farmers and their communities bounce back after natural disasters.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National