USDA Offers Freeze Aid for New York Farmers

By Blake Jackson

Agricultural producers across New York are dealing with the effects of recent freeze events, and the United States Department of Agriculture is encouraging farmers and livestock operators to take advantage of available disaster recovery programs.

USDA officials said a range of technical guidance and financial assistance programs are available to help producers recover losses tied to severe weather conditions.

“USDA has a suite of programs to support farmers and ranchers as they recover from disasters,” said Farm Production and Conservation Under Secretary Richard Fordyce.

“I encourage impacted producers to contact their local USDA Service Center to report losses and learn more about program options available to assist in their recovery from crop, land, infrastructure, and livestock losses and damages.”

Livestock producers experiencing deaths above normal mortality rates or forced to sell injured animals at lower prices may qualify for assistance through the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP).

Producers must provide documentation of losses and submit a notice to the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) by March 1, 2027, for 2026 losses.

The Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) may also help producers facing eligible losses involving feed, honeybees, or aquaculture operations.

Orchardists and nursery growers could receive support through the Tree Assistance Program (TAP), which helps cover costs associated with replanting or rehabilitating damaged trees, vines, and bushes. Applications for TAP must be submitted within 90 days after damage becomes evident.

“Once you are able to evaluate the impact on your operation, be sure to contact your local FSA county office to timely report all crop, livestock and farm infrastructure damages and losses,” said Clark Putnam, State Executive Director for FSA in New York.

“To expedite FSA disaster assistance, you may need to provide documents, such as farm records, herd inventory, receipts and pictures of damages or losses.”

USDA officials also reminded producers with crop insurance or Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program coverage to quickly report damage and maintain communication with agents and local offices.

Emergency loans, conservation support, and restoration assistance remain available for eligible operations affected by the freeze.

For USDA disaster assistance information, visit farmers.gov.

Photo Credit: usda