Florida to Make More Disaster Relief Funds Available

Florida's agricultural community—including farmers, ranchers, and growers—may soon receive additional financial relief as the state works to recover from the impacts of recent hurricanes. In response to the extensive damage caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, Governor Ron DeSantis has exercised emergency powers to replenish the Agriculture and Aquaculture Producers Natural Disaster Recovery Loan Program. Previously, this program had exhausted its funds, leaving local producers without support during a time of significant need. Although the exact amount of new funding remains undetermined, this action is aimed at addressing the urgent losses experienced in the region. Notably, the American Farm Bureau Federation estimates that Hurricane Milton alone has resulted in approximately $1.5 million in agricultural damages. This move is intended to help rebuild affected operations, restore livelihoods, and secure long-term stability for Florida’s vital agricultural sector.

Officials hope that this funding boost will not only aid immediate recovery but also bolster confidence among local communities, paving the way for a stronger, more resilient economic future.

For more information on the program, visit: https://disasterloan.fdacs.gov/#:~:text=The%20program%20is%20established%20within%20the%20Florida%20Department,damage%20or%20destruction%20from%20a%20declared%20natural%20disaster