The USDA is offering crucial disaster assistance to agricultural producers in Illinois who have been impacted by recent tornadoes, high winds, and flooding. This support includes both technical and financial aid to help farmers and livestock producers recover from significant weather-related damages. Producers should contact their local USDA Service Center to report losses and learn about available programs to address crop, land, infrastructure, and livestock losses.
Among the key programs available is the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP), which aids those experiencing livestock deaths or reduced sales due to adverse weather events. To participate, producers need to document their losses and submit a notice of loss to the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) by March 3, 2025, for 2024 losses. Additionally, the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) offers compensation for feed and grazing losses, with a notice of loss deadline of January 30, 2025.
Eligible orchardists and nursery tree growers can also seek cost-share assistance through the Tree Assistance Program (TAP) for replanting or rehabilitating trees, bushes, or vines. Applications must be filed within 90 days of the disaster event.
The USDA provides various loan options, including emergency farm loans, to help producers replace essential property, purchase inputs, and cover living expenses. Risk management options, like Federal Crop Insurance and the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP), are also available to manage crop damage.
For more detailed information and assistance, producers can visit farmers.gov or contact their local USDA Service Center. These resources are designed to help Illinois farmers recover and rebuild in the aftermath of these severe weather events.
