By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a disaster declaration for counties in Georgia affected by Tropical Storm Debby, activating crucial financial assistance for the region's farmers. This declaration covers all 15 counties in Georgia’s First Congressional District and follows a direct request from Representative Earl L. “Buddy” Carter.
The Secretarial disaster designation enables farm operators in both primary and contiguous counties to seek Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loan assistance, a vital resource as they work to recover from the storm's significant rain and wind damage.
“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.
Farmers in the eligible areas have an eight-month window from the disaster declaration date to apply for these emergency loans. The FSA evaluates each loan application based on the specific losses at each farm and the ability of the operator to repay the loan, ensuring targeted and efficient support.
This USDA declaration is pivotal in supporting the recovery of Georgia's agriculture, safeguarding local and national food supplies, and helping farmers restore their operations after the devastations of Tropical Storm Debby.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National