By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced significant changes to aid farmers affected by hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton in 2024, as well as those impacted by storms from 2016 to 2023.
These changes include streamlining environmental compliance and expediting payment approvals for the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP), Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP), and Tree Assistance Program (TAP).
The USDA has waived certain requirements, allowing for quicker restoration cost-share assistance. This is part of a broader effort to reduce bureaucracy and speed up the recovery process for agricultural land.
"By reducing required documentation and simplifying environmental compliance reviews, producers can implement restoration activities sooner," stated FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux.
In light of these hurricanes, the USDA’s flexibility allows for non-ground disturbing activities such as debris removal and fence repair to commence without prior approval.
More intensive restorations benefiting from a categorical exclusion waiver will not require detailed environmental reviews, focusing on expediting the recovery process and mitigating further environmental impact.
This policy adjustment simplifies procedures for farmers across nine states including Alabama, Florida, and Georgia, ensuring they receive necessary funds swiftly without the usual documentation. The USDA continues to support the agricultural community by adapting its policies to meet the urgent needs of U.S. farmers and ranchers.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National