The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has opened the Agricultural Disaster Crop Loss Program for online applications starting today until May 4. This initiative aims to provide aid to farmers affected by adverse weather conditions in 2024, such as Hurricane Helene, Tropical Storm Debby, and drought.
Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler announced the launch, stating, “Our farmers are reeling from a disastrous 2024 season, so we are moving quickly to get this program up and running to get money flowing to them. This funding is a lifeline as they look to restore their farms and livelihood.” The N.C. General Assembly has allocated over $524 million for disaster relief, with nearly $311 million dedicated to supporting farmers.
The program stipulates eligibility criteria, requiring farmers to show a verifiable loss of agriculture or aquaculture commodities from 2024 disasters. Also, the farms must be located in disaster-affected areas, with commodities planted before the disaster’s designated date in official declarations.
Eligible farmers should apply through www.ncagr.gov, providing a Form 578 on file with the USDA Farm Service Agency and a completed W-9. Those without internet access may seek assistance from local county extension offices. A disaster assistance hotline at 1-866-645-9403 is available from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., for inquiries.
The program covers various commodities, including specialty crops and tobacco. Troxler noted that farmers unsure about the extent of their crop damage, such as those growing nursery crops and fruit-bearing trees, could request an application deadline extension to June 18.
Troxler urged farmers to utilize this online application process, which takes about 30 minutes, and to inform others lacking internet access or awareness. Further details, including a frequently asked questions section, are available at www.ncagr.gov/agdisaster, or via the NCDA&CS disaster assistance hotline.
The General Assembly plans to reassess agricultural needs following Congressional disaster funding evaluations.
