By Jamie Martin
Agricultural producers in Texas affected by wildfires can access USDA disaster assistance to recover from damage to crops, livestock, infrastructure, and farmland. Producers are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center to report losses and explore support programs.
The Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP) assists producers who lost animals or sold them at reduced prices due to wildfire. Losses must be reported by March 2, 2026, for 2025 events.
The Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) covers feed and grazing losses, also requiring notice by the same deadline.
Eligible orchardists and tree growers may qualify for the Tree Assistance Program (TAP) to replant or rehabilitate trees and vines lost in the fire. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of loss.
“Once producers are safely able to determine and report their losses or damages, our local Farm Service Agency staff can help producers with program applications related to wildfire recovery,” said Eddie Trevino, Deputy State Executive Director for FSA in Texas.
FSA also offers emergency and operating loans to producers in disaster-declared counties, as well as assistance through the Farm Storage Facility Loan Program (FSFL). Producers with NAP or crop insurance should report damages promptly, within 15 or 72 hours, depending on the policy.
Conservation aid is available through the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) and Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP), while NRCS offers long-term recovery support via EQIP and technical help.
Communities can also access aid through the Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) program by applying within 60 days. For full details, producers can visit farmers.gov or their local USDA offices.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National