Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson and legislative leaders announced the launch of two agricultural disaster recovery programs totaling over $112 million in funding Tuesday to assist Florida farmers, ranchers, and growers in rebuilding and recovering from Hurricane Idalia.
Affected agricultural producers can now apply for the Agriculture and Aquaculture Producers Natural Disaster Recovery Loan Program and the Silviculture Recovery Program.
In September, Commissioner Wilton Simpson announced the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ estimate of nearly $450 million in losses and damage to Florida agriculture from Hurricane Idalia. During a special legislative session in October the Florida Legislature passed House Bill 1-C, which provided funding for and directed FDACS to launch critical recovery programs for impacted agricultural producers.
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“Florida’s agriculture industry sustained widespread damage from Hurricane Idalia, and today’s launch of the Hurricane Idalia agriculture recovery programs – the first state-funded programs of their kind – is another important step to get our impacted producers back on their feet,” said Commissioner Wilton Simpson. “Florida’s farmers, ranchers, and growers work day in, day out, rain or shine, to feed our state and nation – and I am proud to stand with Florida’s leaders and once again demonstrate our steadfast support to these hardworking individuals.”
Agriculture and Aquaculture Producers Natural Disaster Recovery Loan Program
- $75 million is available for low-interest or interest-free loans up to $500,000 for eligible agriculture and aquaculture producers that have experienced damage or destruction from Hurricane Idalia.
- Loans may be used to restore, repair, or replace essential physical property, including fences, equipment, greenhouses, and other buildings, or to remove vegetative debris.
- Interested producers can learn more or apply here.
Silviculture Recovery Program
- $37.5 million is available to assist eligible landowners through cost-share grants in declared counties damaged from Hurricane Idalia with site preparation and tree planting activities.
- Grants will be up to 75% of the costs for site preparation and tree planting costs with a maximum award of $250,000.
- Interested producers can learn more or apply here.
“Hurricane Idalia had a devastating impact on Florida’s agriculture industry,” said Senate President-Designate Ben Albritton. “Through the Hurricane Idalia recovery programs, we are sending a clear message that we will always support our rural and agricultural communities. These recovery programs provide much needed support to farmers, growers, and ranchers across the impacted region and ensure that our producers can rebuild their businesses and continue to provide safe, wholesome food for American families. I have some wonderful partners in Commissioner Simpson and Senator Simon – Florida agriculture should know that they can count on our team.”
“Hurricane Idalia hit the heart of my district hard. I am thankful for these efforts to help in their recovery which in turn helps the entire state of Florida by keeping agriculture thriving,” said Senator Corey Simon. “With a steadfast commitment to the restoration of our agricultural backbone, we introduce initiatives that go beyond recovery – they signify a resurgence of prosperity for the good people of Florida.”
Jeb Smith, Florida Farm Bureau Federation President said, “Florida Farm Bureau commends Florida Department of Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and his team for implementing the Agriculture Disaster Recovery Program. With Mother Nature being one of agriculture’s toughest business partners, Florida’s farmers and ranchers are used to facing challenges beyond their control. This program provides support to our farm families, allowing them to advance sustainably and ensure an adequate food supply to Floridians. We applaud the Florida Legislature, especially Senators Ben Albritton, Corey Simon, Jay Collins, and Representative Jason Shoaf, for championing this legislation through last year’s special session.”