Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced Friday that farmers, ranchers, and growers affected by Hurricane Debby can now apply for low-interest and interest-free loans through the Agriculture and Aquaculture Producers Natural Disaster Recovery Loan Program.
These loans are available to eligible producers for restoring, repairing, or replacing essential physical property, such as fences, equipment, greenhouses, and other buildings, as well as for the removal of vegetative debris.
Read: Agricultural Safety Center, UF/IFAS Release Heat-Related Illness Toolkit
“Supporting our farmers, ranchers, and growers in the aftermath of a natural disaster is crucial not only for rebuilding and replanting but also for safeguarding our state and nation’s food security,” said Commissioner Wilton Simpson. “Through the Natural Disaster Recovery Loan Program, we are providing immediate and efficient financing to ensure that Florida’s agriculture continues to thrive and sustain us all.”
Producers impacted by Hurricane Debby are encouraged to document property damage with photos and save all receipts related to recovery efforts and supplies. Detailed information about the application process is available on the program’s webpage.
Agriculture and Aquaculture Producers Natural Disaster Recovery Loan Program Highlights:
- Offers low-interest or interest-free loans of up to $500,000 to eligible agriculture and aquaculture producers who have suffered damage or destruction from Hurricane Debby.
- Loans can 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 through the program’s official page.
Read: Florida Agriculture Commissioner Simpson Restricts Cattle Imports
Producers who previously received funds for damages from Hurricane Idalia are also eligible to apply for damages from this disaster. The program continues to accept applications for Hurricane Idalia-related damages until August 29, 2024.
During a special legislative session in November 2023, the Florida Legislature passed House Bill 1-C, allocating $75 million to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to establish a revolving loan fund aimed at helping agriculture and aquaculture producers recover from natural disasters.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Android Users: Download our free app to stay up-to-date on the latest news.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.