USDA aid arrives for Georgia farms Post-Debby
The USDA has officially announced a disaster declaration for Georgia counties hit by Tropical Storm Debby, a move that facilitates financial aid through emergency loans for the affected farmers. All 15 counties in the state's First Congressional District are included, following advocacy by Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter for this critical support.
Farm operators in these counties are now eligible for Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loans, providing essential aid as they begin the recovery process from the storm, which caused extensive crop losses and property 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.
The FSA will consider applications within eight months from the declaration, assessing the extent of production losses and the financial viability of the farm operators seeking aid. This strategic support aims to mitigate the economic impact of the storm on Georgia’s agricultural sector and ensure the stability of the food supply chain both locally and nationally.
This disaster designation by the USDA is a crucial step in providing timely and targeted aid to Georgia's farming community, helping them overcome the challenges posed by Tropical Storm Debby and ensuring the continued robustness of their agricultural contributions.