By Andi Anderson
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has launched emergency assistance programs to help Illinois farms and forests recover from recent storm damage.
These programs, managed by the Farm Service Agency (FSA), include the Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) and the Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP).
Each program provides financial support to restore land impacted by floods and derechos, helping landowners bring their properties back to pre-disaster conditions.
The Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) is available for cropland restoration in Fulton County, Illinois. The program will support farmers in activities such as debris removal, grading, and restoring fences and conservation structures.
Farmers can receive up to 75% of their costs covered, and in some cases, qualifying farmers may receive up to 90% cost-share. The application period for ECP in Fulton County begins on December 2, 2024, and closes on January 2, 2024.
For forest owners in Stephenson and Winnebago counties, the Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP) is now open for applications.
This program focuses on nonindustrial private forests, allowing owners to receive funding for activities like debris clearing, replanting, and wildlife habitat restoration.
Forest owners must apply for assistance before beginning any work, as environmental compliance checks are required before restoration begins. The application period for EFRP in these counties runs from November 14, 2024, to December 13, 2024.
Both programs rely on FSA county committees to inspect damaged lands and assess the eligibility of applications. Approved ECP and EFRP applicants can receive funds to help restore their land to its prior condition.
For forest land, assistance may cover replanting, establishing fire lanes, and wildlife enhancements, among other practices.
Scott Halpin, State Executive Director for FSA in Illinois, encourages all eligible landowners to apply for this financial aid.
“If you haven’t participated in FSA programs, contact your local FSA office as soon as possible to complete the process of establishing customer and farm records and to determine program eligibility,” he advised.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Illinois, Government & Policy