Final chance for 2022 USDA relief funds

Jul 18, 2024

Apply by August 14, 2024, for USDA’s emergency relief program

By Farms.com

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reminds farmers of the approaching deadline to apply for the Emergency Relief Program (ERP) to mitigate losses from 2022’s natural disasters.

The deadline to submit applications is August 14, 2024, with the Farm Service Agency (FSA) having opened the application window in October 2023.

“Don’t delay. Gather up your documents and contact your local office to complete the application process,” advised FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. He highlighted the importance for those affected by disasters like wildfires, hurricanes, and other extreme weather events to seek the available support.

The ERP 2022 is part of the broader Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, through which Congress has provided $3.2 billion to aid in covering an estimated $10 billion in crop and other agricultural losses.

The program specifically addresses losses to crops, trees, bushes, and vines from various qualifying natural disasters occurred in 2022.

This initiative is part of the USDA's efforts to support recovery in the agricultural sector, ensuring farmers can continue operations and contribute to the food supply chain despite the setbacks from natural calamities.

Video: Midwest Weather Shock: Flash Drought Turns Into Heavy Rain Threat This Week (2026 Forecast)

A rapidly changing Midwest weather pattern is unfolding in 2026 as areas that recently slipped into abnormal dryness and flash drought conditions are now facing the threat of heavy rain and repeated storm systems.

After a wet spring erased early drought conditions, regions across Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and northern Missouri have quickly dried out again since mid-to-late May. Soil moisture is dropping fast, and crops like corn and soybeans are beginning to feel the stress of rising temperatures and lack of consistent rainfall. Now, weather models show a major shift.

A developing system moving in from the Northern Plains is expected to bring multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms, with the potential for locally heavy rainfall across the Midwest. While some areas may miss out, others could finally see much-needed relief from the growing dryness. In this video, we break down:

Current drought conditions across the Midwest

Why a flash drought is developing quickly

Timing and path of incoming storm systems

Which states are most likely to see heavy rain

How long this wet pattern could last

Will this rain end the drought or create new flooding risks? Watch the full forecast to find out.