SAVANNAH – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) this week announced a disaster declaration for Georgia counties impacted by Tropical Storm Debby, including all 15 counties in Georgia’s First Congressional District, following a letter from Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) requesting such assistance for farmers’ and growers’ recovery.
Tropical Storm Debby’s devastating rain and wind caused extensive property damage and crop losses for Georgia growers. The Secretarial disaster designation makes farm operators in primary and contiguous counties eligible for Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loan assistance.
“America relies on our growers; but right now, growers are relying on us. Agriculture is the #1 industry in the state of Georgia, and the losses we’ve experience this hurricane season are going to impact not just our local economy, but the national food supply chain. This funding opportunity is a lifeline for the farmers and growers whose crops were wiped out during Tropical Storm Debby, and I will continue to ensure our district has the resources it needs to fully recover,” said Rep. Carter.
According to the USDA’s announcement, farmers in eligible counties have 8 months from the date of a Secretarial disaster declaration to apply for emergency loans. FSA considers each emergency loan application on its own merits, taking into account the extent of production losses on the farm and the security and repayment ability of the operator.
To apply, contact your local FSA office.
Read Rep. Carter’s letter to USDA here.
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